Speaker Slam takes over Toronto’s Lulu Lounge with two Ajax motivators up for $10,000 in prizes
Published March 26, 2024 at 3:58 pm
A pair of Ajax entrepreneurs and gifted public speakers will be among ten motivators competing at Speaker Slam tonight at Toronto’s famed Lulu Lounge, with a prize package valued at more than $10,000 and a chance to move on to the 2024 Grand Slam up for grabs.
Val Vee, a serial entrepreneur and powerhouse in women’s empowerment, is set to take the stage at Speaker Slam, North America’s largest inspirational speaking competition, along with Jennifer Maxwell, a personality expert, connection coach and founder of the Inspired Entrepreneur Academy.
“I’m really delighted and honoured to be sharing my perspective on the importance of human connection in a lighthearted yet impactful way on the Speaker Slam stage, which amplifies the voices of the world community,” Maxwell told indurham. “As we see the ushering in of AI, auto-checkouts, and online everything, what we really need is that human touch to remind us that indeed, human connection matters.”
Vee, with more than three decades of experience, has launched ten businesses, including one exceeding $1 million in revenue in its first year. Her journey spans from her family’s restaurant to franchising Tim Hortons and founding Olive That Tasting Bar. She now leads Ladies Who Dine, where she champions women’s empowerment and business innovation.
Val Vee
“Speaker Slam isn’t just a stage; it’s where my voice becomes a force,” she said. “I’m diving headfirst into the spotlight, ready to share my story and inspire others. Stepping out of my comfort zone is both thrilling and nerve-wracking, but I’m committed to embracing the challenge and making a meaningful impact.”
This marks the second competition of the year for Speaker Slam, now in its eighth season providing a platform for individuals to share their inspirational life stories. The theme tonight Human Connection, which resonates in today’s digital age, emphasizing the significance of real, face-to-face interaction.
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“Stories unite and connect humans in profound and meaningful ways, allowing us to be seen, heard, and understood,” added Maxwell. “I’m thrilled and honoured – and couldn’t pass up the opportunity – to participate on the theme of Human Connection.”
Jennifer Maxwell
The Speaker Slam competition, based in downtown Toronto, is known for its impact on discovering and nurturing speaking talent. The event not only highlights the power of storytelling, but propels speakers to new heights, including TEDx talks, book deals, and international recognition.
Speaker Slam hosts five yearly qualifier competitions building up to the Grand Slam – The Inspirational Speaking Finals.
Ten speakers will battle on stage at the Lulu Lounge Tuesday night with themed 5-minute speeches for prizes up to $10,000, including $2,000 in cash. The top two speakers will advance to the Grand Slam, scheduled for November 16 at the CBC Glenn Gould Studio, where they will compete for the title of Inspirational Speaker of the Year and a prize package worth up to $50,000.
In its eight-year journey, the organization has had a global impact all around with more than 500 million views on their speeches through Goalcast, Power of Positivity, Jay Shetty, Chicken Soup for the Soul, and more. The competitions have a history of launching many speaking careers, including helping speakers get paid speaking gigs, TEDx talks, book deals, press, documentaries, and more.
Other speakers at the Slam include Angie Bailey of Hamilton (Stoney Creek), Danielle Russell of Markham, Sonia Palleck of London, Marsha Vanwynsberghe of Waterloo, Toronto residents Will Greenblatt, Karen Wallington and Yusuf Khoja and Meagan O’Nan of Starkville, Mississippi.
To learn more about Speaker Slam, visit www.speakerslam.org
