Keynote Speaking
Maria Debruijn
Whether speaking to corporate leaders, nonprofit teams, or public sector changemakers, Maria’s talks leave audiences inspired and equipped to lead with greater clarity and compassion. Her academic roots, practical experience, and heartfelt storytelling make her message both credible and relatable. In a world where change is constant, Maria challenges us to slow down, tune in, and create cultures where people feel seen, heard, and truly understood.
Maria deBruijn is a keynote speaker, author, and trusted voice in reimagining workplace engagement. With a background in communications and deep roots in participatory leadership, she invites audiences to shift from transactional strategies to meaningful, human-centered connection.
Through her signature blend of insight, storytelling, and practical tools, Maria empowers leaders to transform their cultures from the inside out. Her message is clear: when people feel understood, they show up fully—and that’s when true engagement begins.
Maria deBruijn brings a refreshing and deeply human approach to keynote speaking. With a career rooted in communication, public engagement, and leadership education, she helps audiences explore how connection, understanding, and relational intelligence can radically transform the workplace. Maria doesn't just talk about engagement—she demonstrates what it looks like in action, drawing from her book Understood: The Greatest Human Need and the Key to Engagement to offer compelling strategies that resonate long after the session ends.
Ready to lead with intention and ignite true connection?
Book Maria deBruijn as your keynote speaker and inspire your team or audience to reimagine engagement as a lived experience—where understanding becomes the foundation for thriving workplaces and empowered leadership.
