A keynote on identity, confidence, and the courage to define yourself.

What if the things you've spent years trying to hide are the very things that make you who you are?

In The Crown I Hid, bestselling and award-winning author, confidence expert, and speaker Lyrique Richards shares a deeply personal story about growing up as a Black girl, navigating beauty standards, and learning to let go of the definitions placed on her by others.

Through the powerful metaphor of her natural hair journey, Lyrique explores a universal truth: we all carry labels, expectations, and beliefs that were never ours to begin with. The real work isn't becoming someone new. It's honouring who you've been all along.

This heartfelt keynote challenges audiences to reflect on the stories they've inherited, the voices they've believed, and the freedom that comes from defining themselves on their own terms.

Perfect for:

• Leadership conferences

• Women's events

• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion initiatives

• Black History Month

• Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

• Schools, colleges, and universities

• Youth leadership programs

• Personal development conferences

Key takeaways:

• How other people's definitions shape our self-perception

• Why confidence begins with self-understanding, not self-changing

• The importance of authenticity in personal and professional spaces

• How to honour your story instead of hiding it

• Practical inspiration to embrace your whole self

"There is only one you. Why waste time trying to be anyone else?"