Gabriella van Rij

Gabriella van Rij

IA, US
The Kindness Expert, Keynote Speaker, 3-Time Author, Founder of the Dare To Be Kind Movement

Drawing from groundbreaking science, her immense cross-cultural experience, and her signature humor, Gabriella van Rij [pronounced "Ray"] inspires organizations to tap into the power of kindness—the most underutilized skill in today's world.  

Whether in front of a large audience, the boardroom, or a university auditorium, Gabriella is a catalyst for change in organizations large and small. Her keynotes encourage listeners to take action against intolerance, harassment, and bias. Additionally, her ability to give talks in French, Dutch, and English make her a motivational speaker sought after across the globe.

Gabriella's remarkable life story began in Pakistan, a spunky orphan in a Catholic orphanage. But without the determination and kindness of two strangers she would not have been adopted into her new family. Today, Gabriella is the founder of the #DaretobeKind movement and her uplifting talks motivate, challenge, and provide the groundwork for lasting progress.

She is an acclaimed author of three books. With All My Might is her mesmerizing memoir of one of the first cross-cultural adoptions. I Can Find My Might is part self-help, part practical resource for students, parents, and educators. Gabriella's personal experience creates a boots-on-the-ground approach to bullying and self-acceptance that is nothing short of magical. Watch Your Delivery is Gabriella's third and latest book, based on one of her popular presentations of the same name.

"We as a society have dropped the ball on Human Kindness®," says Gabriella. "Will you help me pick it up? One moment, one person, one kindness—is all it takes to help someone go from a negative space to a positive place. BE the difference." Gabriella has been seen by millions on Dr. Phil, ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX. She also writes for the NY Daily News.

Drawing from groundbreaking science, her immense cross-cultural experience, and her signature humor, Gabriella van Rij [pronounced "Ray"] inspires organizations to tap into the power of kindness—the most underutilized skill in today's world.  

Whether in front of a large audience, the boardroom, or a university auditorium, Gabriella is a catalyst for change in organizations large and small. Her keynotes encourage listeners to take action against intolerance, harassment, and bias. Additionally, her ability to give talks in French, Dutch, and English make her a motivational speaker sought after across the globe.

Gabriella's remarkable life story began in Pakistan, a spunky orphan in a Catholic orphanage. But without the determination and kindness of two strangers she would not have been adopted into her new family. Today, Gabriella is the founder of the #DaretobeKind movement and her uplifting talks motivate, challenge, and provide the groundwork for lasting progress.

She is an acclaimed author of three books. With All My Might is her mesmerizing memoir of one of the first cross-cultural adoptions. I Can Find My Might is part self-help, part practical resource for students, parents, and educators. Gabriella's personal experience creates a boots-on-the-ground approach to bullying and self-acceptance that is nothing short of magical. Watch Your Delivery is Gabriella's third and latest book, based on one of her popular presentations of the same name.

"We as a society have dropped the ball on Human Kindness®," says Gabriella. "Will you help me pick it up? One moment, one person, one kindness—is all it takes to help someone go from a negative space to a positive place. BE the difference." Gabriella has been seen by millions on Dr. Phil, ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX. She also writes for the NY Daily News.

Creating a Kindness Culture

Discover how kindness can be used in practical ways to build safer communities and healthier relationships!
• Understand the role kindness playsin creating a community and workenvironment where all feel safe andaccepted by others
• Pinpoint hindrances to kindness
• Master a simple method for makingkindness a habit
• Find out why sharing stories is pivotalto increasing kindness
Educational / InformativeInspirational / Life-changingHumorous / Funny

Watch Your Delivery: Secrets to Effective Communication

Optimize your communication for success by developing the habits of top communicators. An engrossing talk that empowers you to:
• Understand the difference betweenopinions and judgments
• Improve communication at all levels
• Create a transparent and respectfulenvironment
• Learn a simple method to instantlyimprove your listening andcommunication skills
Educational / InformativeInspirational / Life-changingHumorous / Funny