Criminal Justice Reform Activist, Founded the Kemba Smith Foundation, Former State Advocacy Campaigns Director & Author of ‘The Kemba Smith Story’

Kemba Smith is a leading advocate for criminal justice reform whose journey from incarceration to national prominence has inspired audiences across the United States and beyond. Once facing more than two decades in prison, she was granted clemency after her story gained national attention. Since her release, she has transformed her experience into a mission of change, founding the Kemba Smith Foundation and working alongside government bodies, international organisations and community groups. Her powerful voice continues to influence conversations on justice, rehabilitation and social responsibility.

Kemba Smith’s credentials in the criminal justice reform field are deeply rooted in her lived experience and her academic background. She began her higher education at Hampton University before later earning a degree in social work, followed by a law degree from Howard University. This combination of formal training and personal history has given her a unique platform to challenge policies affecting incarcerated individuals and their families. Professionally, she has served as State Advocacy Campaigns Director and, in 2019, was appointed to the Virginia Parole Board. In both roles, she has been instrumental in shaping policy and guiding discussions on rehabilitation, sentencing, and reintegration.

Kemba has also collaborated with key stakeholders, from officials at the White House to representatives of the United Nations in Geneva, using these opportunities to press for systemic reform. Through her non-profit organisation, she has worked to educate communities on issues ranging from substance abuse and teen pregnancy to prejudice and reintegration, building bridges that support both prevention and second chances. Her career is a testament to resilience and her dedication to turning personal adversity into a force for lasting social change.

Kemba Smith’s credentials in the criminal justice reform field are deeply rooted in her lived experience and her academic background. She began her higher education at Hampton University before later earning a degree in social work, followed by a law degree from Howard University. This combination of formal training and personal history has given her a unique platform to challenge policies affecting incarcerated individuals and their families. Professionally, she has served as State Advocacy Campaigns Director and, in 2019, was appointed to the Virginia Parole Board. In both roles, she has been instrumental in shaping policy and guiding discussions on rehabilitation, sentencing, and reintegration.

Kemba has also collaborated with key stakeholders, from officials at the White House to representatives of the United Nations in Geneva, using these opportunities to press for systemic reform. Through her non-profit organisation, she has worked to educate communities on issues ranging from substance abuse and teen pregnancy to prejudice and reintegration, building bridges that support both prevention and second chances. Her career is a testament to resilience and her dedication to turning personal adversity into a force for lasting social change.

Kemba Smith has shared her story and insights widely through numerous media and publications. Her autobiography, ‘Poster Child: The Kemba Smith Story’, documents her personal journey and the broader issues within the justice system. She has appeared on CNN, BET and Nightline, and her experiences have been profiled in outlets such as Essence, JET, The Washington Post and The New York Times. These contributions have amplified her voice in the ongoing conversation around justice reform.

Why Hire Kemba Smith?

Kemba Smith is booked as a criminal justice speaker because her life embodies both the challenges and possibilities of reform. Her story of clemency, resilience, and transformation provides audiences with a rare and authentic perspective on the human impact of sentencing laws. Beyond her personal journey, she offers practical expertise gained through leadership roles in advocacy and governance, including her appointment to the Virginia Parole Board.

She is frequently invited to address schools, universities, churches and national conferences, where she connects powerfully with diverse audiences. Her ability to translate complex issues into relatable lessons makes her a sought-after presence on stages across the world. Whether addressing policymakers, educators, or young people, she blends lived experience with professional insight to inspire critical reflection and action. This combination of authenticity and expertise ensures that she is not only heard but remembered, making her one of the most compelling speakers in the field of criminal justice reform today.

To book Kemba to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.