Human Connection: Thirteen Speakers, One Title

Thirteen inspirational speakers took the stage on November 28th, 2018 for the Grand Slam on the theme of Human Connection, and kept the night entertaining for everyone in the room.

1st Place: Jessica Opoku

Jessica was crowned the 2018 Inspirational Speaker of the Year. Her speech would go on to reach more than 13 million viewers through Goalcast.

2nd Place: Sandra Elia

3rd Place: Gina Hatzis

Gina's own speech, I'm A Dangerous Woman, would become the most-viewed in Speaker Slam® history.

Meet the Judges Who Made It All Happen

Six judges donated their time and expertise to select the Inspirational Speaker of the Year, with a first-place prize package that included $1,000 cash and coaching from Codi Shewan, Paula Morand, Carol Schulte, Joze Piranian, and Dana Pharant.

A big shoutout to Goalcast for their life-changing gift, and a huge thank you to the Elite Speakers Academy for sponsoring the event.

Unforgettable Moments

See the full 2018 lineup on the Alumni page.