For Event Professionals

Short 2s clip of Samra Zafar speaking about her story

“well-deserved standing ovation”

“inspired impactful changes”

“best speaker we heard”

“masterful storytelling”

“top highlight of our conference”

Dr. Samra Zafar, MD
International Keynote Speaker, Bestselling Author, Physician, Authentic Leadership and Wellness Expert

Dr Samra Zafar, leadership & wellness speaker

Dr. Samra’s Bio

Dr. Samra Zafar is an award-winning international speaker, bestselling author, and resident psychiatrist. After escaping a decade of abuse as a child bride in Canada, she went on to pursue her education and became a global advocate for progress.

Recognized amongst Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women, Samra is a trailblazer, spearheading inclusion and wellness in organizations across the world. She combines scientific research with hard-earned life lessons to share courageous strategies that lead to bold results.

Her speaking portfolio includes four TEDx Talks and speeches to leading corporations, non-profits, governmental agencies, and educational institutions. Samra’s work has been extensively featured in both Canadian and International media.

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Dr Samra Zafar, leadership & wellness speaker, at an event for ELLE

Dr. Samra’s Intro

Dr. Samra Zafar is an award-winning international speaker, bestselling author, and resident psychiatrist who specializes in inclusive wellness™ and authentic leadership.

A four-time TEDx speaker, Samra is currently completing her residency in psychiatry at University of Toronto. She has been recognized by Women’s Executive Network as one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women. She has also been named among the Top 25 Most Inspirational Women in Canada and the Top 25 Canadian Immigrants.

Her bestselling memoir, A Good Wife: Escaping the Life I Never Chose, shares her journey of escaping an abusive child marriage to pursue her education. Her second book, Unconditional: Break Through Past Limits To Transform Your Future, explores science-based strategies rooted in lived experience to help readers unlearn limiting beliefs and live fuller, unconditional lives.

Samra is passionate about helping people live and lead with courage so they can be agents for equity and progress.

Please welcome… Dr. Samra Zafar!

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AV Requirements

For virtual, online platforms

Zoom Link: _______________
Password: ___________

Microsoft Teams Link: _______________
Password: ___________

Google Meet Link: _______________
Password: ___________

Webex Link: _______________
Password: ___________

Other ____________________

For live, in-person keynotes

Wireless microphone (headset or lapel microphone preferred)

Handheld microphone remote (for audience participation - optional)

Wireless (clicker) to advance slides, if applicable

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Speaker Bureau

I am represented exclusively
by Speakers Spotlight.

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Literary Agency

For book-related events, please
contact Transatlantic Agency.

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Rave Reviews

“a well-deserved standing ovation”

“Dr. Samra Zafar is a truly transformative speaker. Her keynote not only captivated the audience but also earned her a well-deserved standing ovation. Her ability to connect with attendees on both a professional and personal level is unmatched. Samra’s story of resilience and triumph inspires everyone who hears it. I've had the privilege of hiring her for several events and she consistently delivers impactful, thought-provoking presentations that leave a lasting impression – making her an invaluable asset to any conference or event.”

– Amy Ruddell, Vice President, Macgregor Communications

“inspired impactful changes within our company”

“We had the pleasure of having Samra share her story with McCormick Canada employees. Her message and authenticity captured our attention and inspired impactful changes within our company. Samra’s message left such an impression on our employee group that we hope to have her back again in the near future.”

– Julie Fluelling, NA Customer Service Manager, McCormick Canada

“she beautifully blended narrative and science”

“I’ve listened to a number of good speakers, but Samra’s keynote at the IPV Awareness Event was surreal. She is dynamic and engaging; she beautifully blended narrative and science to illustrate the impact of intimate partner violence on women and children. Through sharing her story, she invited the attendees to understand her unique journey. Everyone in the room was attentively listening to every word and we could have listened to her speak for another hour. Her determination and resilience were inspiring; she needs to be heard.”

– Jaspreet Gill, Executive Director, York Region Centre for Community Safety

“engaging storytelling, actionable insights, and a genuine passion for fostering inclusive environments”

“Samra delivered a truly inspiring and impactful keynote to our group at RBC on the importance of belonging, resilience, and creating safe spaces in the workplace. From start to finish, Samra captivated the audience with engaging storytelling, actionable insights, and a genuine passion for fostering inclusive environments. Her message resonated deeply with our employees, sparking meaningful conversations and leaving everyone motivated to create a more supportive environment within our organization.”

– Tina Sarellas | Regional Head Central & Eastern Canada, Corporate Client Group | RBC

“The clicks on the recording surpassed any other session we have hosted.”

“Telling her story of resilience and courage was particularly inspiring and resonated with all of our employees; our female employees in particular commented that they felt “seen” and heard as they listened to her story. The audience participation was lively, and the questions and comments were such clear indicators that Samra’s story and ability to survive and overcome was one that people felt deeply connected to and inspired by. The clicks on the recording surpassed any other session we have hosted.”

– Katie Conti, Vice President, Talent Acquisition, HealthEdge

“Of the three speakers, she definitely struck an emotional chord with the audience.”

“Samra was a highlight for many in attendance. She is a star! Such an inspiring story and such a beautiful person! Everyone loved her!!! Of the three speakers, she definitely struck an emotional chord with the audience. She was a delight at the VIP dinner, and went out of her way to sign everyone’s book. It proved very important and valuable to our audience to have a Canadian speaker to which they could relate and could relate with them.”

– University of Regina, Live Your Truth

“you’d be hard pressed to find someone more authentic, relatable or inspiring”

“Samra is an absolute gem! I run a company that specializes in student learning and skill-building, and she delivered an incredibly engaging workshop to our parents. The strategies she shared for creating a positive, productive household communication were practical and actionable, and she immediately put our audience at ease with how friendly and open she is. I highly and enthusiastically recommend Samra – you’d be hard pressed to find someone more authentic, relatable or inspiring.”

– KOMO Consulting

“we’ve received nothing but positive feedback”

“We had the pleasure of welcoming Samra to celebrate International Women’s Day. Samra shared her journey from oppression to empowerment and we’ve received nothing but positive feedback. Seeing how she’s overcome adversities was inspiring.”

– Sarah Connor, Intuit Canada

“Many students said that was the best speaker they had heard in their lives.”

“Samra is really an incredible person. Not only is her story so powerful, she is one of those special people who are able to make close connections quickly. Many students said that was the best speaker they had heard in their lives. Our students will remember this forever.

– Interlake School Division, Winnipeg, MB

“Samra’s masterful storytelling, her wisdom, and her passion are so powerful – and inspirational. She truly exemplified this year’s International Women’s Day theme.”

– Miller Thomson LLP