Youth Leadership Speaker Highlight
Executive Director Celebration Foundation Testimonial
Celebration Foundation in Collaboration with Charles Schwab Financial literacy Keynote
One message can change a life
Captivating a Crowd of 600 Students
Creating opportunities for youth
Expert on overcoming adversity, RISE UP
Helping people see what's possible
Empowering the next generation
Hi, I’m Dwight Thompson, a speaker, nonprofit leader, and Executive Director/Founder of Rise League, Inc with 12+ years of leadership experience and 7 years leading a youth development organization.
I specialize in leadership, discipline, personal growth, and overcoming adversity through authentic storytelling and real-world experiences that inspire action.
Through my work, I have personally mentored and worked alongside more than 2,000 students, athletes, and emerging leaders.
Whether it’s a conference, corporate event, athletic program, graduation, or school assembly, I deliver a meaningful message that connects with audiences and creates lasting impact.
12 reviews
Avery C.
September 14, 2026Speech truly had me locked in. And was a great reminder to never give up and that its okay to pass up on big opportunities for our own well being. Truly what i needed as someone who is trying to figure it all out
Hired as: Athlete/Sports Speaker, Business Motivational Speaker, Industry Expert, Leadership/Success Speaker, Motivational Speaker
Antoni P.
September 14, 2026I walked into the room without any expectations, but left with an impression on my heart that stayed with me for a long time. Dwight's personal story touched me even though I am younger than him. He has overcame adversity in a way that would be so difficult for others and he is sharing his story and making others feel better. I recommend hearing his story! Highly wish more people get a chance to experience his speeches.
Hired as: Athlete/Sports Speaker, Business Motivational Speaker, Christian Speaker, Leadership/Success Speaker, Motivational Speaker
Alpha D.
September 13, 2026Really inspiring story and I was really glad to form part of the speech
He came to Celebration Highschool and taught us about his journey, the ups, the downs, and how he made a foundation out of it which really made me feel inspired
And opened my eyes to pursuing my passion in any form or manner.
Having him here with us was really impressive and he was full of joy and knowledge for us
He taught us how important it is to have a mentor in our lives as they can literally change the trajectory of our future
Hope we get to see him again down here in Celebration!
Hired as: Athlete/Sports Speaker, Business Motivational Speaker, Motivational Speaker
Rayniel A.
June 29, 2026I’ve had the opportunity to attend several of Dwight Thompson’s leadership sessions through Rise league’s nonprofit business program, and each one has been incredibly impactful. Dwight has a unique ability to connect with people through authenticity, real-life experiences, and practical advice rather than just motivational words.
His messages on discipline, resilience, leadership, and stepping outside of your comfort zone have challenged me to think differently about my goals and personal growth. You can genuinely tell that he cares about helping others succeed and is passionate about investing in the next generation.
If you’re looking for a speaker who can inspire, challenge, and leave a lasting impression on an audience, I highly recommend Dwight Thompson. His presentations are engaging, meaningful, and full of valuable life lessons that extend far beyond the event itself.
Hired as: Athlete/Sports Speaker, Business Motivational Speaker, Leadership/Success Speaker, Motivational Speaker
Kylan S.
June 29, 2026I’m incredibly grateful to Dwight Thompson for believing in me and welcoming me into the Rise League Pathways Program. He also took the time to help me with my tailgate event, and his guidance has made a real impact on me.
The biggest lesson I took away from him is the importance of discipline. He taught me that if you do what you need to do now, you’ll earn the opportunity to do what you want to do later. That mindset has changed the way I look at basketball, school, work, and life.
Thank you for investing in me and pushing me to become a better man. I’m excited to keep applying these lessons and continue growing through Rise League.
Hired as: Athlete/Sports Speaker, Business Motivational Speaker, Leadership/Success Speaker, Motivational Speaker
Price range: Contact for pricing
Languages: English
Gig length: 15 - 120 minutes
When you book Dwight, you can expect an authentic and meaningful experience that connects with audiences on a personal level.
Through powerful storytelling, real-life experiences, and heartfelt lessons learned through leadership, adversity, family, and service, Dwight creates an environment where people feel inspired to reflect, grow, and take action.
Audiences can expect:
• Authentic stories that are relatable, impactful, and thought-provoking
• A genuine and engaging presentation style that creates meaningful connection
• Powerful lessons on discipline, leadership, personal growth, and overcoming adversity
• Practical takeaways that can be applied in everyday life
• A message that encourages self-reflection, resilience, and purpose
• A customized presentation tailored to the audience and goals of the event
Many attendees leave not only inspired, but deeply moved. They often continue the conversation after the event, sharing their own experiences, asking questions, and exploring ways to create positive change in their lives.
The goal is not simply to motivate for a moment. The goal is to create an experience that leaves a lasting impact.
Dwight Thompson is a motivational speaker, nonprofit leader, and community advocate whose mission is to inspire people to lead with purpose, develop discipline, and overcome adversity.
As the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Rise League Inc, he has dedicated his life to creating opportunities for young people through leadership development, mentorship, sports, and career readiness programs.
Rise League has partnered with organizations such as the Orlando Magic, Dick's Sporting Goods, Florida Blue, Boys & Girls Club and Osceola Magic to create impactful opportunities for youth throughout Central Florida.
His work is rooted in service, personal growth, and the belief that every individual has the ability to rise above their circumstances.
What makes his message unique is that it comes from lived experience. While building a nonprofit organization, raising a family, and serving his community, he has faced challenges that tested his resilience and strengthened his purpose. Following the loss of his brother and co-founder, he made the decision to continue the mission they started together, transforming pain into purpose and adversity into fuel for impact.
Known for his authentic, relatable, and inspiring speaking style, Dwight creates meaningful connections with audiences of all ages. His presentations go beyond motivation—they challenge people to reflect, grow, and take action. Audience members often stay after events to share their stories, ask questions, and discuss the changes they want to make in their own lives. His ability to connect on a personal level leaves people feeling seen, encouraged, and empowered.
Whether speaking to students, athletes, educators, professionals, or community leaders, his goal is simple: help people recognize their potential, take ownership of their future, and become the leaders they were created to be.
His message is built on four pillars: discipline, leadership, personal growth, and overcoming adversity. Through powerful storytelling and real-world experience, he reminds audiences that their circumstances may shape their journey, but they do not have to determine their destination.
Postponement or Cancellation
Once an event date is confirmed, time and resources are dedicated to preparation, scheduling, and customization for the event. If an event is postponed or canceled, the following cancellation schedule may apply:
• Less than 30 days before the event: 100% of the agreed fee
• Between 30–60 days before the event: 50% of the agreed fee
• More than 60 days before the event: No cancellation fee
Rescheduling requests may be accommodated based on availability.
Audio & Video Recording
Event organizers may record all or part of the presentation. A copy of any professional recordings is appreciated for promotional and archival purposes. Recordings may be shared internally within the organization; however, recordings may not be sold, reproduced for commercial purposes, or distributed publicly without prior written approval.
Tuesday
Nonprofit Event
8:00am - 8:45am
•
Kissimmee, FL
Saturday
Personal Occasion
2:00pm - 2:30pm
•
Orlando, FL
Wireless handheld microphone preferred
Access to projector and screen if presentation materials are used
Speaker arrival 30 minutes prior to presentation
Motivational Speaker