Ken Nwadike Jr. is a nationally recognized motivational speaker, peace activist, and video journalist best known to students across the country as the “Free Hugs Guy.” His uplifting videos and live appearances have reached hundreds of millions of people online and in-person, inspiring messages of kindness, courage, and connection.
Ken’s journey—from experiencing homelessness as a teenager to becoming a successful entrepreneur and internationally known speaker—is a story of resilience, hope, and the quiet power of compassion. His presentations help students see that their challenges do not define them—and that empathy and action can change lives.
Ken launched the Free Hugs Project in response to the Boston Marathon bombing to spread love and unity during difficult times. His work quickly went viral, and he’s since been featured on CNN, USA Today, Good Morning Britain, BBC News, and in Google’s Year in Search as one of 2016’s defining moments.
Today, Ken speaks at high schools around the country, leading programs during assemblies, leadership retreats, Kindness and Unity Weeks, and staff development sessions. Whether talking with a gym full of students or a small group of student leaders, Ken brings heart, humor, and inspiration to every school he visits—leaving communities more connected and uplifted.