Motivational Speaker Derek Clark’s life is one of resilience and redemption. As a child, he suffered unthinkable child abuse, abandonment and emotional distress before being turned over to the psychiatric hospital at age five. His 13 years in the San Francisco bay area foster care system reflected an early life of humiliation, aggression, emotional distress, overwhelming anxiety and being wrongfully labeled. Eventually, with the help of foster parents, a fantastic social worker and mentors, he defied the artificial limitations imposed upon him. Clark knows first-hand how to cope with adversity and overcoming hardship. His past has never held him back from accomplishing what he set his heart and mind to.

Clark is an inspiring motivational speaker/trainer. His popular keynotes are "The Power of Resilience and Redemption: From Brutal Trauma to Triumph" and "You Cannot Think Negative About a Child and Expect a Positive Outcome." He is the author of seven books including “Disable the Label: Never Limit the Potential of a Child,” “Never Limit Your Life” and the “I Will Never Give Up” book series. Clark’s true-life trials and personal triumphs have inspired organizations worldwide with his message of resilience, hope, courage, unwavering perseverance and redemption. He recently received the International Foster Care Award through SOS Children's Village where they are located in 134 countries helping and protecting children.

Clark has also been a featured expert on CNN Headline News, The Steve Harvey TV Show, The Ricki Lake TV Show and other TV shows around the world. Recently, Clark has become a viral video sensation for his Rapping Dad videos which have had over 250 million social media views.

Foster Care, Adoption, Motivational, Authors, Education, Musician, Music, Artists, Literary, Inspirational, Overcoming Adversity, Child Abuse, At-Risk Youth, Youth Development Social Work,