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
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
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
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
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.
The Prize Package
Our judges have generously contributed to a game-changing prize package designed to propel our winners to the next level of their speaking careers:
First Place
- Speaker Slam®: $2,000 cash prize & Invitation to the Grand Slam
- Klaudia Zinaty: 3 months of marketing consulting, one ticket to the Women Empowerment Awards Gala, plus a gift bag filled with products and services. (Value: $8,000)
- Kripa Anand: She & Success / CSME Network Business Magazine Cover Feature — a premium editorial spotlight recognizing the winner on the cover. (Value: Invaluable)
- Daniel Pillai: Speaker & Media Readiness Package — 1-hour one-on-one coaching session, bio and keynote positioning review, and speaker one-sheet feedback. Includes the opportunity to discuss professional goals and speaking challenges, plus a curated personalized PR mailer featuring products from LANGTON PR clients and a handwritten note. (Value: $3,500)
- Stephanie Hiltz: Costa Rica Escape! — Five (5) nights at a Tamarindo, Costa Rica Airbnb. Sleeps 2. Includes WiFi, A/C, pool, tennis court, gym, free parking, and just a 7-minute walk to the beach (blackout dates may apply). (Value: $500 USD)
Second Place
- Speaker Slam®: Invitation to the Grand Slam
- Kripa Anand: Spotlight feature in the publication — an email interview. (Value: $8,000)
- Klaudia Zinaty: two months of marketing consulting, and a ticket to the Women Empowerment Awards afterparty. (Value: $5000)
- Daniel Pillai: Speaker Success Starter Session — 30-minute virtual coaching session, speaker bio review, and key messaging feedback including three personalized recommendations to strengthen speaker positioning. Includes a curated personalized PR mailer featuring products from LANGTON PR clients and a handwritten note. (Value: $1,500)
- Stephanie Hiltz: The Insider Hour — One hour of direct access to insights from someone who works closely with event planners and clients. Ask anything. (Value: $300 CAD)
Third Place
- Speaker Slam®: Entry to Wildcard Race
- Kripa Anand: Spotlight feature on the website — an email interview. (Value: $5,000)
- Klaudia Zinaty: one month of consulting and ticket to Women Empowerment Awards afterparty. (Value $3000)
- Daniel Pillai: Personalized PR Mailer — Curated personalized PR mailer featuring products from LANGTON PR clients, plus a handwritten note from Daniel Pillai.
- Stephanie Hiltz: The Thought-Leader Swag Drop — A curated collection of books, goodies, and inspiration from top speakers. (Value: $80 CAD)