Mission & Vision

The Black National Speakers Association (BlackNSA) is dedicated to empowering, elevating, and excelling within the speaking profession. Established in 1993 from the visionary work of Dr. Thelma Wells since 1987, BlackNSA has grown into a leading organization that champions diversity and inclusion in the speaking industry.

Empowering Excellence

At BlackNSA, we empower our members to become exceptional speakers by providing access to top-tier training, resources, and networking opportunities. Our goal is to nurture talent, boost confidence, and develop the skills needed to captivate and inspire audiences. We focus on the unique experiences and perspectives of our members, ensuring they have the support to thrive.

Elevating the Profession

We are devoted to elevating the profession of speaking by advocating for the recognition and inclusion of speakers from diverse backgrounds. Our efforts enhance the visibility and influence of our members within the broader speaking industry, ensuring that their voices are heard, respected, and valued. We believe that by elevating our members and allies, we enrich the entire profession.

Excelling Together

As a community, we excel by supporting one another in our professional journeys. We celebrate each other’s successes and provide a platform for collaboration, mentorship, and growth. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, we are shaping the future of professional speaking, one powerful message at a time.

OUR

Pioneers

Dr. Thelma Wells, Founder of BlackNSA

The Black National Speakers Association stands on the shoulders of visionaries who dared to dream of a more inclusive speaking industry. Founded through the pioneering work of Dr. Thelma Wells in 1987, which led to our official establishment in 1993, BlackNSA has been guided by leaders who understood the power of authentic voices and diverse perspectives.

These trailblazers created more than an organization – they built a legacy of excellence, empowerment, and community that continues to shape the speaking profession today. Their unwavering commitment to elevating speakers of color has opened doors, transformed stages, and created pathways for generations of powerful voices to emerge.

Legacy Builders

John Austin

Lenora Billings-Harris

Major Benjamin Brooks

Les Brown

Tracy Brown

Michael Chapman

Carole Copeland-Thomas

Ivory Dorsey

Dr. Tina Dupree

Debra Gould

Dovie Gray

Keith Harrell

Cathy Harris

Rosemary Horner

Norm Hull

Dr. Gloria Jo Floyd

Dr. Willie Jolley

Zemira Jones

Dr. Willie Larkin

Nancy Lewis

Ann McNeill

Lethia Owens

Marquesa Pettway

Michelle Porchia

Ed Robinson

Daisy Saunders

Hattie Hill Stork

Join Our

Community

We are a vibrant community of speakers who understand your journey and are committed to your success. At BlackNSA, we provide the training, resources, and connections you need to build a thriving speaking career while staying true to your authentic self. Since 1993, we’ve helped countless speakers command stages, inspire audiences, and create lasting impact. Your voice matters, and your time is now.