Speaking Engagements
Career conversations for a changing world.
Jade speaks on Gen Z in the workplace, the creator economy, career ownership, and the future of work through practical, engaging talks that resonate with students, employers, and professionals alike.
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Meet Jade Walters
Jade Walters is a TEDx speaker, early career strategist, creator entrepreneur, and founder of The Ninth Semester, an award-winning platform supporting over 220,000 students and recent graduates. With a background spanning advertising at TikTok and employer branding at WayUp, she now consults with corporate recruiting teams while empowering early career talent through practical, relatable, and forward-thinking career education.
As a first-gen college graduate, Jade is passionate about breaking down barriers and demystifying the job search for Gen Z professionals, especially those navigating the workplace for the first time. Her talks center on authenticity, access, and ambition, helping both young professionals and the organizations that serve them build careers - and pipelines - that reflect the future of work.
Perfect for these audiences:
Universities
Student Affairs
Career Centers
First-Generation Programs
Professional Associations
Conferences
Employer Resource Groups
Campus Recruiting Teams
TEDx Talk
I have a career I made up.
Here’s how you can too.
By Jade Walters
In her TEDx talk, Jade explores what it truly means to take ownership of your career, even if it means breaking the rules or rewriting them altogether. Through the story of her non-linear career path, she empowers the next generation to embrace uncertainty, trust their instincts, and take the first steps in designing their dream careers.
Featured Talks
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Gen Z job market shows higher unemployment for early career workers (2026)
ABC News Live
ABC News Live explores why unemployment among recent graduates has climbed above the national average, with Jade breaking down what's changed in the hiring market and how early career professionals can adapt their job search.
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The Rise of Next-Gen Creators and Why They’re Rewriting B2B Influence
LinkedIn
Recorded live at Cannes Lions 2026, LinkedIn Chief Brand Officer Heather Freeland sits down with Jade Walters and fellow creators to explore how the next generation is reshaping influence, trust, and brand partnerships in the B2B space.
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What Nobody Told You About The Entry-Level Job Search
Glassdoor
Hosted by Glassdoor, this conversation unpacks why today's entry-level job search looks so different than it did just a few years ago. Jade shares practical strategies for navigating an increasingly competitive market and standing out to employers.
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Land Your Dream Career: Start with an Internship
Marketplace APM
Marketplace's Yanely Espinal and Jade discuss why internships remain one of the best ways to explore career paths, build experience, and create opportunities long before graduation.
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Next Best Move July with Creator Jade Walters
Croud Marketing
Filmed live from Cannes, this interview dives into the creator economy, authentic brand partnerships, and the biggest mistakes companies make when collaborating with creators. Jade shares why trust and creative freedom are essential to successful campaigns.
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Securing Your First Big Girl Job
Therapy for Black Girls University
From applications and interviews to rejection and resilience, this conversation offers honest advice for navigating the transition from college to your first full-time role—with practical tips you can put to work immediately.
Jade’s Zones of Genius:
From campus stages to corporate events, Jade brings bold energy, insight, and lived experience to every room she steps into. Her speaking topics are rooted in her unique journey as a first-gen founder, creator, and Gen Z career expert.
Career Development
Career Confidence
Personal Branding
Job Search Strategy
Early Career Recruiting
Creator Economy & Entrepreneurship
Creator Entrepreneurship
Building a Personal Brand
Creative Content Strategy
Building an Online Business
Formats:
keynotes · panels · workshops · fireside chats · webinars · virtual events
Gen Z & The Workplace
Gen Z at Work
Employer Branding
Recruitment Marketing
Future of Work
What Audiences Are Saying
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“Your content has allowed me to find tons of opportunities I never knew existed!
It’s been EXTREMELY helpful for me.”
- Nikita C.
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“Jade is truly ahead of the game when it comes to the career world.
She gives relevant, real-world advice that is accessible to her Gen Z audience. Beyond that, Jade is a true professional & so wise! I really appreciated her can-do attitude and creativity.”
- Kaitlin M., Her Campus
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“Your content is informative and inspiring.
You are a powerful voice in your generation and you are helping so many.”
-Katrice M.
Ready to bring Jade to your next event?
Whether you're planning a student summit, national conference, or employer branding panel, Jade brings both credibility and cultural relevance to your stage.