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 the author of seven inspirational books titled "Never Limit Your Life" and the critically acclaimed "I Will Never Give Up" book series, which details his experiences and mental tools that he used to beat the odds while growing up in the foster care system. His true-life trials and personal triumphs have inspired organizations worldwide with his message of resilience, hope, courage, unwavering perseverance and redemption.

Clark’s life mission has been to help others find the mental strength to recognize and take advantage of opportunities. His keynotes have inspired thousands of listeners to have the mental strength to overcome adversity and fear. His purpose is to cultivate drive, focus, and the courage to take action.

He is a past recipient of the SOS Children's Village's International Foster Care Award and a featured expert on "CNN Headline News," "The Steve Harvey Show," "The Ricki Lake Show" and other TV shows around the world. Clark also 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,