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STORYTELLING

I combine expertise with authenticity to produce informative and impactful presentations that highlight universal themes infused with data and insights. From the youngest and brightest minds to the most accomplished professionals, inspiring motivational keynote presentations are fine-tuned and meticulously curated for audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

SPEECH TOPICS

AUGMENTED FUTURES: CONVERGENCE

OVERCOME IMPOSTER SYNDROME & LIVE YOUR LEGEND

On the heels of achievement, it is not uncommon for people to feel like they just got “lucky” or that they do not deserve to be where they are. This is known as the imposter syndrome, which is typically associated with an inability to internalize accomplishments and a persistent fear of being exposed as a "fraud." Imposter syndrome can not only reduce confidence, but also impact performance. I discuss broader implications and prevalence of imposter experiences and share my own journey grappling with this “inner hater” as a graduate student at Harvard and even the White House. I also highlight tactics I have employed to overcome and manage imposter feelings, which have empowered me to persevere in the face of challenges in service of connecting with my highest self to live out my legend!

On the heels of rapid societal change, we face an unprecedented opportunity to shape the future in ways we’ve never imagined. Through Augmented Futures: Convergence™, I explore how merging futures thinking, collective imagination, and advanced technologies empowers individuals, organizations, and communities to envision and actively create better futures.
The concept of convergence—bringing together complementary strengths—serves as the foundation for innovation and progress. It’s through collaboration and shared creativity that we can navigate uncertainty as a catalyst for growth rather than a barrier. I share how embracing diverse perspectives and exploring infinite futures can inspire critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability, equipping us to thrive in an ever-changing world.
From my experiences at Harvard to my work in the White House, I’ve seen firsthand how technology, combined with human ingenuity, can amplify our potential. Yet, I believe we must ensure that technology serves to enhance our humanity—not replace it.

FOSTERING EQUITY, INCLUSION & BELONGING IN EDUCATION

Improving and expanding access to quality education, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), is critical for both enabling our society to address the most pressing challenges of today as well as spurring innovation to solve the problems of tomorrow. A global crisis completely disrupted the traditional education model and exacerbated pre-existing disparities. I speak to the resilience and ingenuity of educators who, amid persistently daunting circumstances, remained committed to ensuring learning continued. I also explore the importance of applying an intersectional lens to enhance learning and empower students in all walks of life, making student success more equitable. Drawing from my own journey as a Black female scientist and leading research, I also share insights on barriers that contribute to persistent diversity issues in STEM education and careers as well as effective interventions.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

"Knatokie captures the audience’s attention from the moment she takes the stage. Her story of overcoming adversity encourages others to persevere in their own challenges. Knatokie’s natural curiosity and love for STEM is infectious. Her passion for diversity and desire to make a difference is inspiring."

Antionette M. Hays PhD.
President | Regis College

SPEAKING HIGHLIGHTS

KEYNOTE SPEECHES
Defeating the inner imposter that keeps us from being successful | Knatokie Ford | TEDxMidAtlantic
14:26
American College of Education 2022 Full Commencement Ceremony
02:12:22
Walden University 63rd Commencement Green Ceremony Speaker: Dr. Knatokie Ford
14:52
Shattering STEM Stereotypes - Dr. Knatokie Ford and Kim Swennen
01:04:55
From Harvard to Hollywood: STEM, Storytelling, and an Outrageous Dream with Dr. Knatokie Ford
21:19
2017 SACNAS Featured Speaker: Knatokie Ford, PhD
11:49
FIRESIDE CHATS, PANELS & INTERVIEWS
TogetherLive
00:57
Good Morning Namibia hosts Dr. Knatokie Ford
11:37
Amy Poehler's Smart Girls Panel
31:49
Meredith Walker, Dr. Knatokie Ford, Amanda Hill & Christina Diaz Lead The Fueled By Failure Summit
43:00
Prototyping a Civic Media Fellowship: A Conversation with Dr. Knatokie Ford and Baratunde Thurston
21:42
Dr. Knatokie Ford: Fostering Equity and Inclusion in STEM Society
25:16
OBAMA WHITE HOUSE HIGHLIGHTS
Stars of Hidden Figures Inspire 10,000 Smart Girls!
White House Hidden Figures Event
42:03
Live from the White House Science Fair
30:31

CURRENTLY ACCEPTING REQUESTS FOR

KEYNOTES, PANELS, PODCASTS, & FIRESIDE CHATS

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