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Speaker Slam® Unveils Judges for the Fifth Competition of 2026 "Identity"

Speaker Slam® Unveils Judges for the Fifth Competition of 2026 "Identity"

By Speaker Slam®

Speaker Slam®, North America’s largest inspirational speaking competition, returns this July with a powerful new theme: Identity.

Join us on July 21st at the iconic Lula Lounge in Toronto for an unforgettable evening where bold voices take the stage to explore who they are, how they’ve evolved, and what it truly means to own your story.

This event shines a light on the moments that shape us, the labels we’ve challenged, the identities we’ve outgrown, and the truths we’ve fought to embrace. Each speaker will share a deeply personal story that reminds us: identity isn’t something we’re given, it’s something we define.

Get ready for a night of honesty, self-discovery, and powerful storytelling that will leave you reflecting on your own sense of self.

Meet Your Judges for Identity

We’re proud to introduce our esteemed panel of judges, leaders in storytelling, media, entrepreneurship, and influence, who will be listening for authenticity, depth, and the voices that truly embody what it means to own and define your identity.


Klaudia Zinaty

Klaudia Zinaty

Founder & CEO, Women Empowerment Awards & The Women Empowerment Foundation | Halton Hills, Canada

Klaudia Zinaty is a visionary leader, entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. As the President and Founder of the Women Empowerment Awards and Foundation, Klaudia has led a transformative movement dedicated to amplifying women’s voices and creating opportunities for success, collaboration, and growth. With an extensive background in marketing, media, PR, and business, Klaudia is recognized as a trailblazer, inspiring women across Canada to break barriers and reach their full potential. A sought-after speaker, she has delivered keynote addresses at notable events nationally and internationally. Her initiatives provide mentorship, recognition, and resources that empower women entrepreneurs and professionals.

Kripa Anand

Kripa Anand

Founder & Editor of She & Success Business Magazine | Mississauga, Ontario

Kripa Anand is Founder & Editor of She & Success Business Magazine and Founder of the She & Success Foundation, national platforms empowering women entrepreneurs through storytelling, mentorship, education, and opportunity. She also leads Media Relations, Partnerships, and Sponsorships across the CanadianSME Media Network, building collaborations that strengthen entrepreneurship across Canada. At just 26, Kripa has emerged as a young voice shaping Canada's entrepreneurial ecosystem. As a national podcaster, she engages founders, high-net-worth individuals, and changemakers. With a background in television journalism, radio broadcasting, public relations, and human resource management, her vision is to build platforms where talent, not background, geography, or gender, defines success.

Daniel Pillai

Daniel Pillai

CEO & President of LANGTON PR | Toronto, Canada

Daniel Pillai is the CEO/President of LANGTON PR, redefining visibility as the intersection of authenticity and community. For over 15 years, he has led campaigns that transform brand narratives into cultural conversations—blending storytelling, earned media, and strategy to create lasting impact. He believes true visibility is not just about being seen, but about creating meaningful connections that drive influence and cultural relevance.

Stephanie Hiltz

Stephanie Hiltz

Speaker Strategist & Event Specialist | Brechin, Ontario

Stephanie left Toronto, packed up her family, and moved to Costa Rica, believing the right environment changes everything. Born into a family of trade show producers, she's been an event professional since she could talk. It's not just what she does. It's who she is. Through her work with TA Speakers Management, she connects event planners internationally with keynote speakers and emcees who don't just fill a slot. They shift how an audience feels, thinks, and leaves. From the jungles of Costa Rica, she's proof that identity isn't where you're from. It's what you choose to build.

Could Your Story Be Next? Apply to Compete

Speaker Slam® is accepting applications for upcoming competitions. One speech can change your life.

Apply to Compete