Russell Lehmann

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT RUSSELL LEHMANN

Russell Lehmann is a charismatic activist, motivational speaker, and acclaimed author and poet for autism, mental health, and disabilities. He is the International Disability Rights Advocate at UCLA’s Tarjan Center for Disabilities and captivates audiences with his powerful message of acceptance and resilience.Lehmann\'s work has had a positive and life-changing impact on many, and his advocacy and activism have helped to increase understanding and support for individuals in the disability community. Russell’s talent lies in several areas, showcasing his diverse skills and abilities to deliver impactful, educational, and encouraging presentations that incorporate a range of emotions and perspectives, including significant elements of candor and humor. Russell has emerged as a beacon of inspiration. He shares his intense and painful personal journey of being diagnosed with autism at the age of 12 after 5 weeks in a lockdown psychiatric ward for severe OCD and phobias. These struggles, on top of a lack of support, compassion, and understanding led him to withdraw from the world for the next 15 years resulting in prevalent isolation. Russell has transformed his unique experiences into a compelling narrative that challenges stereotypes, fosters understanding, and shifts perspectives. Russell is a dynamic and engaging keynote speaker who captivates audiences with his authentic storytelling. His keynotes leave a lasting impact, offering deeply reflective insights into the complex world of autism and mental health while encouraging empathy, sincerity, and inclusivity. A powerful poet, Russell performs spoken word throughout each presentation that present a unique vehicle to the audience to provoke deep thoughts. Russell’s multifaceted talents have allowed him to reach a wide audience and make a significant impact in the numerous areas of inequity throughout society, and his ability to engage and inspire audiences showcases a talent for connecting with people on a deep and meaningful level. His global reach continues to make waves, shaping perceptions and challenging societal norms.