Jared Sampson

Jared Sampson sparks impactful conversations about resilience and self-acceptance, inspiring individuals to triumph over adversity and find strength in their unique identity.

 

PRIMARY TOPICS


  • Authenticity
  • Black History Month
  • Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
  • Leadership
  • LGBTQ+ Focused
  • Personal Growth
  • Resilience
GETTING TO KNOW 

JARED SAMPSON

Jared Sampson exemplifies resilience, authenticity, and an indomitable spirit in the face of challenges. Growing up in a small Louisiana town, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery at a young age, accelerating his high school graduation and setting ambitious goals. Jared’s life story is a powerful testament to overcoming societal constraints and harnessing self-worth as a driver for success.

Throughout his career, Jared has demonstrated remarkable determination, confronting and overcoming persistent discrimination and bias. His commitment to equality is evident in his fearless sharing of his experiences as a gay Black man, including his impactful appearances on “Southern Charm New Orleans.” His advocacy for authenticity and inclusion has earned him recognition, including the Human Rights Equality Award in 2018.

Currently, as the Director of Pride Events at JJLA, a leading experiential event company in Los Angeles, Jared leads major LGBTQ+ events such as WeHo Pride, Outloud Music Festival at WeHo Pride, San Francisco Pride, and the OUTFEST Film Festival Opening Night. His role highlights his expertise in creating innovative and inclusive experiences that resonate with diverse audiences.

Jared’s career spans influential roles at organizations like the YMCA of Greater New Orleans, Radio Disney New Orleans, Feld Entertainment, and the New Orleans Saints. His dedication to education is also notable, with a track record of teaching Marketing, Business, and Management at various colleges and universities. He holds an MBA with a Marketing concentration and an MS in Digital Marketing, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

In addition to his professional achievements, Jared serves as a board member for the Los Angeles LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, is a member of the Human Rights Committee for InterPride, and regularly attends the InterPride World Conference and the annual conference for the United States Association of Prides. These endeavors enhance his understanding of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in professional settings and cultures, further informing his advocacy for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Jared’s ongoing efforts to drive positive change underscore his dedication to creating more inclusive and equitable environments.

Keynotes

NO LIMITS: THE POWER OF IDENTITY IN THE WORKPLACE

In today’s professional landscape, understanding and embracing what sets us apart is key to unlocking true empowerment. Self-discovery isn’t just a personal journey; it’s a corporate asset. By recognizing our unique qualities and being transparent about our strengths, we cultivate a powerful sense of pride that drives both individual and collective success.

Jared Sampson, a distinguished leader, embodies the transformative power of this journey. As a Black gay man, Jared has navigated the complexities of identity within the corporate world, turning challenges into opportunities for growth. His experiences highlight the importance of challenging societal norms and embracing diversity within the workplace—not just for inclusion, but as a means to drive innovation and resilience.

Jared’s keynote emphasizes that true leadership stems from understanding and embracing one’s identity. He shares how his journey of self-discovery has empowered him to break barriers, inspire others, and lead with purpose. Jared challenges corporate leaders and teams to create environments where individuality is celebrated and leveraged for greater success, showing that fostering authenticity within the workplace is crucial for innovation and growth.

ORGANIZATIONAL IMPACT:
  • The significance of recognizing and leveraging intrinsic value within a corporate context.
  • Strategies for fostering a deep sense of pride in one’s unique contributions to the organization.
  • How self-empowerment can drive professional growth and organizational success.
  • The critical role of empathy and compassion in building inclusive, high-performing teams.
Ideal Audience:

This program is ideal for corporate leaders, diversity and inclusion champions, HR professionals, and teams looking to harness the power of individual authenticity to drive organizational excellence.

TRAILBLAZERS OF CHANGE: CELEBRATING BLACK LGBTQ+ LEADERS

Navigating the intersection of being both Black and LGBTQ+ presents unique challenges, particularly within the professional sphere. This keynote delves into the powerful stories of Black LGBTQ+ trailblazers who have not only faced these challenges but have also made significant strides in advocating for pride, progress, and equality. Their journeys offer valuable lessons for today’s corporate leaders and diversity champions, highlighting the critical role of intersectionality in fostering a more inclusive workplace.

Jared Sampson’s celebration of Black History and LGBTQ+ History is both bold and purposeful. By acknowledging and honoring the Black LGBTQ+ pioneers who laid the groundwork for today’s progress, Jared connects their legacy to his own story of embracing his identity with pride. His narrative serves as a compelling reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the diverse identities that contribute to the richness and resilience of the corporate community.

ORGANIZATIONAL IMPACT:
  • An understanding of how historical Black LGBTQ+ figures have paved the way for modern advocates in the corporate sector.
  • Insights into the concept of intersectionality and its relevance to individuals belonging to multiple marginalized groups.
  • A deeper appreciation of the ongoing struggles faced by those at the intersection of these identities and their implications in the workplace.
  • Strategies for being champions of equality and advocates for solidarity in advancing corporate diversity and inclusion.
Ideal Audience:

This program is ideal for corporate leaders, diversity and inclusion officers, HR professionals, and teams committed to understanding and promoting intersectionality and inclusivity within their organizations.

BREAKING BARRIERS: FOSTERING INCLUSIVITY IN THE CORPORATE LANDSCAPE

In today’s corporate environment, the pursuit of inclusivity and equity is not just a goal but a responsibility. This journey requires each of us to critically examine our own biases and challenge the norms that perpetuate barriers within the workplace. As leaders and team members, we play a crucial role in dismantling the walls of prejudice that hinder progress and breed inequality. It’s time to confront and dispel the stereotypes that create obstacles in our professional lives.

Jared Sampson’s life story, including is journey to becoming the Director of Pride Events, is a powerful testament to the strength required to break free from societal constraints and embrace one’s authentic identity. His journey, marked by triumph over stereotypes, serves as a compelling reminder of the challenges that many individuals face due to deeply ingrained biases. Jared’s keynote calls on corporate professionals to actively engage in the ongoing fight for diversity, equity, and inclusion. His inspiring narrative challenges us all to tear down the barriers that prevent individuals from reaching their full potential within the corporate sphere.

ORGANIZATIONAL IMPACT:
  • Gain tools for recognizing and addressing personal biases, leading to greater self-awareness and more inclusive leadership.
  • Learn strategies for developing resilience and self-confidence in the face of stereotypes and biases within the corporate environment.
  • Explore actionable methods to actively dismantle barriers and eliminate stereotypes in the workplace, fostering a more inclusive and equitable organizational culture.
Ideal Audience: 

This program is ideal for corporate leaders, managers, HR professionals, diversity and inclusion officers, and teams committed to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace.

DEI AT WORK: LGBTQ+ CULTURE AND CORPORATE INNOVATION

The LGBTQ+ community has made profound contributions to various facets of culture, including art, music, film, fashion, and popular culture. These contributions not only enrich the creative landscape but also drive a shift toward greater diversity and inclusivity within the corporate environment. Recognizing and celebrating the influence of LGBTQ+ culture is essential in fostering a more vibrant and inclusive workplace.

Jared Sampson’s journey to becoming a Director of Pride Events is a testament to his personal and professional growth. From his early days of navigating the challenges of identity in the workplace to finding his voice as a leader, Jared’s path has been shaped by his deep commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. His career has been built on the foundation of celebrating and amplifying the voices of others while discovering his own.

With his firsthand experience and growing insights, Jared takes audiences through the rich history and contemporary expressions of LGBTQ+ identity, highlighting the significant impact this community has had on the corporate world and beyond. His story is one of resilience, creativity, and strength—values that continue to drive progress across industries.

Jared’s message serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. His celebration of LGBTQ+ culture is not just about acknowledgment; it’s a call to action for corporate leaders and teams to champion acceptance, equality, and love within their organizations.

ORGANIZATIONAL IMPACT:
  • Understand the impact of LGBTQ+ culture on various aspects of corporate life, including creative industries, branding, and organizational culture
  • Learn how embracing LGBTQ+ culture can promote inclusivity and diversity within the workplace.
  • Recognize the importance of celebrating and honoring the contributions of the LGBTQ+ community in driving innovation and inclusivity.
  • Explore the role of allyship in supporting LGBTQ+ colleagues and creating a more inclusive corporate environment.
Ideal Audience:

This program is ideal for corporate leaders, HR professionals, diversity and inclusion officers, and teams committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture.