Eboné Bell

The ABCs of Diversity and Intentional Allyship

Time and time again we hear people say they want more diversity in their organizations, school groups, events, etc. But do you know what diversity means and why it’s important? This keynote starts with defining the term diversity. Eboné Bell breaks down the basics of diversity and why we need it; while providing examples of successful diversity vs. ineffective diversity efforts within organizations and companies.

Eboné is often quoted as saying, “It’s one thing to have good intentions and another to be intentional.” This keynote dives into the difference between intention and intentional, and why deciphering the two is the building block to achieving diversity.

And with intentionality, the program also dives into ways you can show up as an ally, not only during social justice movements but also in everyday life. Participants will take a hard look at how they currently show up in these spaces and how they can do better within their communities.

Learning Outcomes

As a result of attending this program, participants will learn:

• The foundational definition of diversity
• Why diversity is important within and outside of your organization
• The difference between having good intentions vs. being intentional
• Identifying forms of allyship in action
• How and when to speak up

How to be a Good Ally

We get it. You have Black and Brown friends and colleagues you adore. You exclaim, “Black Lives Matter!” For your LGBTQ friends, you believe “Love is Love”, and you post supportive images on your social media…but is that enough?

This program dives deeper into ways you can show up as an ally, not only during social justice movements but also in everyday life. Participants will take a hard look at how they currently show up in these spaces and how they can do better (with the right tools). Eboné will share ineffective vs. effective ways of ally activism. Participants will also look at breaking through un-comfortability and standing in their purpose. Now more than ever your voice is needed, no matter who you are!

Learning Outcomes

As a result of attending this program, students will learn:

• An understanding of why allyship is important
• Identifying forms of ally activism
• How and when to speak up
• How to be empowered (and confident) around uncomfortable conversations

Level Up Leadership

Regardless of who we are or where we come from, each one of us possesses the potential to be a leader. Yes, you!

From starting as a campus leader to spearheading her own business, Eboné Bell has directly witnessed that leadership doesn’t always demand the traditionally taught skills and qualifications. Her firsthand experience highlights the truth that every one of us holds the potential to be intentional leaders. Through conversation and real-world examples, Eboné will share the key traits of intentional leadership, while focusing on important aspects such as uncovering and overcoming fear and recognizing the value of belonging and authenticity in leadership.

This program is designed to empower participants to enhance their knowledge and skills needed to embrace intentional leadership and positively impact their campus community. But most importantly, it serves as a reminder that intentional leadership extends beyond individual efforts and encompasses the collective leadership of all. It acknowledges that while leadership begins from within, it is not solely about “me” but rather about the leadership of “we.” Because when WE level up, we all feel empowered.

Learning Outcomes

As a result of attending this program, students will learn:

• The key traits of an intentional leader,
• How to recognize the fear that prevents growth and opportunity,
• How to create a campus culture committed to empowerment and belonging,
• How to leverage the power of your voice to advocate for yourself and the community around you, and
• The importance of authenticity and empathy.

Speak Up or Forever Hold Your Peace

If you had the opportunity to make someone feel seen, give someone equal access, or save someone from harm, would you do it? Many of us have witnessed problematic incidents or actions happen right in front of us, and too many times we did and said nothing. Now is not the time to sit back and be complicit. When it comes to being an active ally, the time is now to speak up.

Many people assume speaking up must be a public announcement of sorts, but that’s only one way to use your voice. The art of speaking up can be used in various ways and this keynote will give you the tools and best methods for you to find your voice and use it for good. Whether you’re shy, outspoken, or somewhere in between, this discussion will help you to identify the best way for you to show up when it’s needed.

Learning Outcomes

As a result of attending this program, students will learn:

• To identify the best methods to speak up
• When and how to use your voice in various situations
• How to breakthrough their fear of speaking up

Black History is American History

Many students don’t know or understand Black history. Most of America can count the number of Black changemakers and historical figures they learned about in school on one hand. But why are most of us limited to this knowledge of Black history? After all, Black history is American history. Black history continues to exist to expand American education and this keynote presentation was created to do just that.

By using the art of storytelling and relatability, Eboné creates a unique way of exploring Black historical figures, experiences, and important events that have shaped our past and present. It’s time to go beyond the Black history basics because knowing your past, helps open the doors to the future.

Learning Outcomes

As a result of attending this program, students will learn:

• New stories about Black culture and historical figures
• How Black history has shaped our future
• We all have more in common than we think