Sara Minkara
Disability Rights Advocate, Former United States Special Advisor on International Disability Rights
Sara Minkara
Disability Rights Advocate, Former United States Special Advisor on International Disability Rights
Biography
Sara Minkara is a world-renowned, in-demand speaker and visionary who masterfully shatters conventional wisdom about leadership, disability, and human potential. Having served as U.S. Special Advisor on International Disability Rights and leading foreign policy on disability, Sara revolutionized how nations and multilateral fora approach diplomacy, leadership, and disability. Sara's diplomatic mastery spans 70+ countries and the highest levels of global governance, private sector engagement, and civil society consultation, transforming policy landscapes in trade, emerging technologies, climate action, and international security.
This speaking tour was born out of demand by the international community. Many have asked Sara to share her expertise, and this is a tailored approach to meeting this need. Sara's unique story as a blind Muslim woman and Arab-American entrepreneur, which has shaped her into a powerful voice for change, is one that will bring a fresh per. Sara not only served as an ambassador on disability, fostering meaningful partnerships across diverse stakeholders—from grassroots organizations to ministerial meetings, she also founded and ran an International NGO for 10 years, Empowerment Through Integration (ETI), which worked systemically to break down barriers for 1,000+ youth with disabilities across the MENA region. Sara pioneered her "In the Dark Methodology," a groundbreaking framework that catalyzes profound transformation in Fortune 500 boardrooms, government chambers, and international forums, fostering an authentic dialogue that breaks down systemic barriers and builds bridges across diverse communities. Her ability to create scalable, sustainable impact has earned her prestigious recognition, including Forbes 30 Under 30, the Clinton Global Initiative, and Vital Voices.
Each session with Sara is an unparalleled journey. Her style is interactive, hopeful, and impactful, creating space for authentic dialogues and difficult conversations to flourish and develop. Sara does the work with her audiences; she leaves them feeling seen, heard, and valued!
Speech Topics
Disability Policy and Diplomacy
Sara will provide actionable frameworks for integrating disability perspectives into decision-making at all levels. Sara can share her groundbreaking work in disability diplomacy, focusing on how disability rights intersect with global policy in sectors like trade, security, climate action, and technology.
Adaptive Leadership
Sara's expertise in adaptive leadership helps organizations, governments, and entities better navigate complex, ever-changing environments by fostering inclusivity, innovation, and resilience.
Fostering Authentic Dialogue
Drawing on her pioneering "In the Dark Methodology," Sara guides participants through conversations that challenge societal narratives, break down barriers, and build leadership. Her ability to foster authentic dialogue will leave the audience feeling engaged and connected, ready to contribute to the change she advocates for.
Social Entrepreneurship and Systemic Change
Sara's experience founding Empowerment Through Integration (ETI) and advocating for youth with disabilities in the MENA region provides valuable insights into driving social change through innovation and partnerships.
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