With a mission to empower students to break through barriers and take ownership of their future aspirations, Orlando Smith is a motivational speaker. Working with the University Of Southern California’s National Association of Peer College Advisors (NAPCA) Orlando shares his experiences with young people, through relating his struggles as a special education student and dedicated athlete, who has worked non-stop to overcome heartbreaking obstacles to achieve success. He shares artifacts such as, a childhood journal, a video clip of him running in a track and field event, and a picture of his awards wall that is overflowing with proof of his success.
Hearing Orlando tell his story is a life changing experience. Orlando delivers his presentation in a highly organized manner, engaging his listeners audibly and visually. His passion, message, and inspiration is well received by his audiences, as he inspires their hearts and minds.
A 2011 graduate of Kearny High School and Letterman recipient for four consecutive years for track and field as well as a lettered athlete in basketball and football, Orlando anchored the 4×400 relay team that broke the program's record. He is a CIF Finals runner in the 4×100, 4×400 and 200-meter events. Kearny High School Athlete of the Month and recognized as the Scholar Athlete for basketball as well as track and field, Orlando continues to soar in his athletic career.
While his accomplishments speak of his determination, his story relates the challenges encountered along his life's journey. During his sophomore year in high school, Orlando struggled academically, as reflected in his 1.9 GPA. As a result, he was dismissed from the Track team. Faced with a decision to blaze a new trail for his life, Orlando relates through his presentations how he forged his way through prayer and change of mind set to graduate his senior year with a 4.0.