Keynote Speaker|Best-Selling Author |Executive Leader| Entrepreneur Coach
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In a defining moment of her life, Kashaun Parker stood at a crossroads. The unexpected closure of her previous company left her facing a critical decision: rebuild from the ground up or embrace the unknown with a bold leap into entrepreneurship. As a widowed single mother of three, Kashaun’s journey was anything but easy, yet it was these very challenges that ignited her determination to create something extraordinary. This was the beginning of her entrepreneurial venture, Next Step Forward.
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Kashaun’s transition from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship wasn’t just a career change; it was a calling. With a solid foundation in supply chain management and a Master’s in Business Administration, she envisioned a future where her expertise and passion for leadership could empower others. Her mission was clear: to equip emerging leaders and aspiring speakers with the tools to succeed in both their professional and personal lives.
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As Kashaun navigated her own path, she became acutely aware of the unique obstacles faced by introverted and underrepresented leaders in the public speaking arena. Determined to turn these challenges into strengths, she developed specialized programs such as the Speakers Academy for Niche Audiences, designed specifically to help these individuals shine. Her approach wasn’t just innovative; it was transformative, resonating deeply with those who had been overlooked by traditional speaking platforms.

Kashaun quickly gained recognition as a dynamic keynote speaker, captivating audiences across the country. Her keynotes, including topics like Resilience in Leadership,  Executive Presence and Influence, and Navigating Change with Confidence, went beyond mere inspiration. They were immersive experiences filled with authenticity, actionable insights, and a deep connection with her audience. Kashaun’s ability to address the pain points of her audience directly and provide tangible solutions made her a sought-after speaker in the entrepreneurial and leadership communities.
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Understanding that a powerful keynote is just the beginning, Kashaun offers a range of post-keynote services designed to sustain the impact of her message. Through workshops, Q&A sessions, and exclusive resources, she ensures that her audience continues to benefit long after the event. Her Integrated Leadership and Speaking Curriculum is particularly impactful, combining public speaking with leadership development to enhance executive presence and influence. For busy professionals seeking rapid results, her Executive Speaking Bootcamps offer an intensive, time-efficient path to mastering public speaking.

Kashaun’s work is deeply rooted in her own experiences. As a single mother balancing the demands of entrepreneurship, she embodies the resilience and perseverance she teaches. Her Resilience-Focused Programs draw from her personal journey, offering practical strategies that help others overcome their challenges with grace and determination.
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For event organizers and clients seeking a speaker who can truly connect with their audience, Kashaun Parker offers more than just expertise—she offers her story, her heart, and a genuine commitment to making a lasting impact. Her holistic approach integrates both personal and professional growth, promoting a balanced and sustainable path to success. Whether you’re looking to elevate your event with a captivating keynote or seeking a partner to guide you on your journey to success, Kashaun is the ideal choice.

Invite Kashaun Parker to your next event, and experience the transformative power of a speaker who is dedicated to helping others take their next step forward. Whether you’re an emerging entrepreneur, a visionary thinker, or an event organizer in search of a speaker who can deliver real value, Kashaun Parker is here to empower you to achieve lasting success.
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PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
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• ✓ Area 42 Director for Toastmasters International

• ✓ Marketing Chair- National Speakers Association, Illinois

• ✓ 18 years of Business Leadership experience presenting and facilitating

• ✓ Executive member of Shared Connections Networking Group 

• ✓ President of Ladies Leadership League

• ✓ Executive Secretary - Toastmasters International District 54 

• ✓ VP of Public Relations -  Toastmasters International District 54 

• ✓ VP of Education Toastmasters International District 54 

• ✓ ICF ACC Accreditation for Coaching

A few Juicy Personal Facts about me:
 

• ✓ Fiercely determined to claim her own authentic power  #trailblazer

• ✓ Relentless passion for helping others feel as though they are in the driver’s seat of their lives.

• ✓ Navigate mission-driven  leaders to achieve game-changing success 

• ✓ Self-branded as a Personal Super Mom to 3 amazing humans ~ her children

• ✓ Professionally trained to speak due to social anxiety about getting out in front of people

• ✓ Highly sensitive (empath) introvert who gets recharged by having quiet time.

Awards and accolades

• Toastmaster of The Year

• National Speakers Association Member of the Year

• 7X Winner of Toastmasters Best Speaker Award

• 3 x Winner of Toastmasters Extemporaneous Speaking Contest

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
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• Certified in Entrepreneurship

• Masters Degree in Business

• Certified Coach: Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching

• Quadruple Mastery Specializations in Leadership, Performance, Transition, and Wellbeing

• Certified Practitioner, Energy Leadership Index 

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