Breakthrough | Speaker Slam: Inspirational Speaking Competition

Step into a night built on clarity, discovery, and the moments that change everything.
This competition brings ten speakers to the stage to share stories shaped by growth, realization, and personal awakening. The winner earns a prize package valued at up to $10,000, including $2,000 cash, and a chance to advance to the 2026 Grand Slam: Inspirational Speaking Finals.

Welcome to a night that honors the turning points that shift a life forward. This is Breakthrough.

Date: March 31st, 2026 from 6 pm to 10 pm EST
Location: Lula Lounge in Toronto, Canada (Livestreaming Available)

Breakthrough celebrates the moments when something finally opens.
Watch speakers share the moments that cleared confusion. The moments that revealed a new path. The moments that carried them into a chapter they once thought unreachable.

These stories come from people who reached for growth after periods of uncertainty. People who found light after struggle. People who discovered something within themselves that called for change.

• Inspiring Speakers: Hear powerful stories from individuals who moved through fear, doubt, or stagnation and found a breakthrough waiting on the other side.
• The Thrill of Competition: Feel the intensity of a live stage as speakers pour their hearts into five minutes of transformation.
• Community and Connection: Meet speakers, creators, coaches, and leaders who believe in growth, authenticity, and possibility.

• You’ll Feel Lifted: Speakers will share the exact moments that shifted their lives in new directions.
• You’ll Feel Connected: This event brings together people who value growth and understand the power of personal truth.
• You’ll Feel Changed: One story can spark a new idea or a new level of courage.
• You’ll Join a Movement: Speaker Slam continues to open doors for speakers, helping them grow, reach audiences, and build real influence.

Whether you attend to be inspired, to support a speaker, or to experience stories that carry meaning and depth, Breakthrough will stay with you.
Be part of a community that celebrates honest stories, big shifts, and the courage required to move forward.

• LIVESTREAM tickets are available
• Venue is wheelchair accessible
• If financial barriers prevent you from attending, reach out to [email protected]

Speaker Slam® is a speaker development agency that supports the next generation of changemakers and thought leaders. We host North America’s largest inspirational speaking competition and provide a platform for people to share their stories and influence their communities.

Each competition features ten speakers competing with a five-minute inspirational speech for prizes valued up to $10,000 and the opportunity to advance to the Grand Slam Finals.

Our speakers have gone on to secure paid speaking gigs, TEDx talks, book deals, media coverage, viral moments, documentary features, and major visibility. Many now speak in schools, charities, and organizations, helping create meaningful change.

Do you have a story that can inspire others?
Apply to compete: https://www.speakerslam.org/apply

Follow us on Instagram: @SpeakerSlam
Watch our videos: www.YouTube.com/SpeakerSlam

Please note: Our speakers share real, unfiltered stories that may touch on sensitive themes. These moments are part of what makes Speaker Slam® events so powerful and impactful. Viewer discretion is advised as this event is tailored for a mature audience.

Info: Network, mingle with friends old and new, and enjoy food and drinks. Don’t forget to try our Common Grounds icebreaker card deck for a fun and interactive start to the evening!

Info: Get ready for an inspiring evening as we kick off the competition with high energy and anticipation.

Info: Hear the first half of our incredible lineup share powerful stories of transformation.

Info: Take a moment to stretch, grab refreshments, and reflect on the inspiring stories you’ve just heard.

Info: The final group of speakers takes the stage, bringing their unique perspectives and unforgettable moments of inspiration.

Info: Another quick intermission to recharge and prepare for the closing segments of the evening.

Info: We highlight community leaders, alumni, and industry trailblazers who embody the theme of the night. Be moved by a heartfelt message from them, offering insight and encouragement to inspire your own journey.

Info: Audience members take the spotlight with 1-2 minute stories tied to the evening’s theme. A chance for your voice to shine!

Info: The moment we’ve all been waiting for! Join us in celebrating as we crown the top 3 winners of the competition and honor their incredible journeys and powerful stories.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Lula Lounge, 1585 Dundas Street West, Toronto, Canada

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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