insights that make

an impact.

Stephanie Akunvabey is a sought-after keynote speaker and facilitator known for helping leaders and organizations think clearly, act decisively, and lead effectively in moments of complexity and change.

Her talks draw on more than 15 years of executive leadership experience across higher education, nonprofit, and corporate-adjacent spaces—combining strategic insight, real-world examples, and practical frameworks audiences can actually use.

These are not motivational speeches. They are thinking engagements.

WHAT AUDIENCES EXPERIENCE

A woman with dark curly hair, wearing a white turtleneck and tan blazer, standing in front of a bookshelf filled with books.

When Stephanie takes the stage, audiences can expect:

  • Clear, grounded insights rooted in real leadership challenges

  • Honest conversations about power, responsibility, and decision-making

  • Practical frameworks for navigating uncertainty and complexity

  • A balance of challenge, care, and credibility

  • Talks that meet the moment—customized to the audience and context

Stephanie is especially effective with audiences that are navigating growth, transition, pressure, or competing priorities.

Signature talks

  • Leading in Complexity

    Making Decisions When Stakes Are High

    Leaders are increasingly asked to make decisions without perfect information, clear consensus, or easy tradeoffs. This keynote explores how leaders can strengthen judgment, maintain trust, and move organizations forward—even when conditions are uncertain.

    Ideal for: Executive teams, senior leaders, conferences, and boards

  • From vision to execution

    Good Ideas Aren’t Enough

    Organizations are full of smart people and strong intentions—yet execution often breaks down. This talk examines the gaps between strategy and action and offers practical approaches for turning vision into sustained progress.

    Ideal for: Leadership retreats, strategy sessions, and change initiatives

  • People, Culture, and the Systems We Build

    Culture is not what we say—it’s what our systems reward, tolerate, and ignore. This keynote helps leaders understand how communication and accountability systems shape organizational culture.

    Ideal for: Organizations focused on talent, retention, and culture change

Let’s start a conversation

If you’re looking for a speaker who brings executive experience, strategic depth, and practical insight—rather than surface-level inspiration—let’s talk.

Contact

Past Audiences & Partners

Stephanie has delivered keynotes, workshops, and facilitated conversations for:

  • Corporate and healthcare organizations

  • Universities and academic associations

  • Leadership development organizations

  • Mission-driven and nonprofit institutions

Past partners include organizations such as Academic Impressions, CVS, Blue Cross Blue Shield–affiliated organizations, Shawmut Design & Construction, and the Rhode Island Department of Transportation.