Inspiring educators and students through engaging speaking, impactful mentorship, and leadership development

Meet Donovan

Your students don’t need motivation. They need a roadmap to believe in themselves.

Hey, I’m Donovan Griffin—a NYC guy who went from first-gen college grad to mentoring young men and speaking on stages about beating self-doubt. I help students and leaders flip their mindset, own their potential, and build powerful connections. I’m all about turning "I can’t" into "I will."

Talk Topics

Donovan Griffin offers impactful presentations designed to empower and inspire. His key speaking topics include:

Imposter Syndrome

· Overcoming self-doubt as a first-gen college grad and mentor

. Building confidence in students facing societal pressures

· Creating safe spaces to empower students for success

Growth Mindset

· Fostering resilience through mentorship and leadership

. Shifting from fixed to growth mindset in education

. Using failure as a stepping stone to success

Male Empowerment

· The powerful role of mentorship in

shaping future leaders
· Build unshakable support systems for
lifelong success.

· Actively encouraging accountability

and strong leadership in young men

Testimonials

Saidia Jacobs

"I've known Donovan for six years and presented alongside him multiple times. He captivates audiences with clarity, confidence, and connection. His workshops inspire and motivate, making him a highly recommended speaker."

Wendell Haynes

"You rarely get to see an individual who captivates an audience when they speak. Donovan has that ability, which he utilizes with the ease of someone who understands each individual in the room."

Denise Comara

"Donovan Griffin is a dynamic speaker who captivates audiences with clarity, confidence, and deep expertise. His ability to connect, inspire, and simplify complex topics leaves a lasting impact on diverse audiences."

What Our Clients Say

Saidia Jacobs

Donovan captivates audiences with clarity and confidence, effectively connecting through his workshops. I highly recommend him as an inspiring and motivational speaker.

Wendell Haynes

"You rarely see individuals who naturally captivate an audience when they speak. Donovan has that ability—he engages with ease and truly understands each person in the room."​

Nikole Knight

Donovan's remarkable communication skills command attention, profoundly impacting students' professional and personal lives.

Denise Comara

Donovan's unparalleled ability to engage audiences, coupled with his passion for lifelong learning and commitment to helping others grow, makes him an invaluable asset to any organization.

Notable Achievements

Mentorship Success:

Guided numerous students to overcome challenges, leading to the

attainment of associate's and bachelor's degrees.​

Program Leadership:

Led men's programs at Harlem Children's Zone and BronxWorks, creating safe spaces and fostering leadership to boost graduation rates.​


Recognition:

Multiple nominations for the President's Award of Excellence in Service at CUNY Bronx Community College, highlighting dedication to supportive student environments.

Mental Health Advocacy:

Promotes mental health awareness, encouraging self-care and therapy within the community.

Donovan Griffin:

The Journey So Far

Donovan Griffin, a dedicated educator and speaker from the South Bronx, holds degrees in Communications and Urban Education. With over 15 years of experience, he has mentored students, helping them overcome imposter syndrome and achieve academic success.

His leadership at Harlem Children's Zone and BronxWorks has fostered safe spaces and improved graduation rates. Beyond education, Donovan advocates for mental health awareness and supports diverse communities through the 108 Community Organization.

Past Speaking Engagements

FAQs – About Donovan Griffin

Who is Donovan Griffin and what does he do?

Donovan Griffin is a motivational speaker, mentor, and leadership coach who helps students and educators overcome self-doubt, build confidence, and develop a growth mindset to achieve personal and academic success.

What topics does Donovan speak about?

Donovan covers powerful topics such as overcoming imposter syndrome, building confidence in students, developing a growth mindset, using failure as a tool for success, and the impact of mentorship and leadership.

How can Donovan help our students or organization?

Through dynamic speaking engagements and mentorship, Donovan provides students with a clear roadmap to believe in themselves, take ownership of their potential, and build supportive communities that foster resilience and success.

What experience does Donovan have working with students and communities?

Donovan has over 15 years of experience, including leadership roles at Harlem Children’s Zone and BronxWorks, where he created programs to boost graduation rates and promote mental health awareness.

What do others say about Donovan’s speaking engagements?

Audiences and collaborators consistently praise Donovan’s ability to connect, simplify complex topics, and leave a lasting impact. Testimonials highlight his clarity, confidence, and powerful presence on stage.

How do I book Donovan for a speaking engagement or workshop?

You can book Donovan by calling 914-762-3085, emailing info@donovangriffin.com, or filling out the contact form on his website with your event details.

Contact & Booking

To inquire about booking Donovan Griffin for your next event or to request more information, please use the following contact details:

My mission is to help college students overcome imposter syndrome with the end goal of improving student retention

and increasing graduation rates.

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