EJ Gulley is an award-winning motivational speaker, author, and certified life coach, as well as a former youth member of Optimist International and a current member of Toastmasters International. His mission is to inspire students, parents, and schools to rise above challenges, embrace resilience, and build positive school cultures that last.
Born in Compton, California—the same city as notorious rappers Dr. Dre and Ice Cube— EJ grew up during one of the most turbulent eras in the city’s history. Surrounded by gangs, drugs, violence, and limited opportunities, the odds were stacked against him from the very beginning. At just 5 years old, EJ’s life nearly changed forever when he was struck by a drunk driver. Doctors told his mother he would never walk again. But through her relentless love and daily care, EJ defied the prognosis—walking, running, and thriving despite it all. By the sixth grade, EJ had already been recruited into a gang, a dangerous path that could have ended his story. But thanks to the timely intervention of his mother, caring teachers like Ms. Royal, Ms. Guy, and Ms. Scott, and a special thanks to his principal, Mr. Herbert Nealy, EJ was redirected toward opportunity instead of destruction. Shortly afterward, he was recruited again, this time by Optimist International, a global youth organization with over 80,000 members, 3,000 clubs located in 20 different countries, where he developed his leadership, vision, and service skills. Those experiences changed the trajectory of his life forever.
Today, EJ utilizes his personal experiences and ongoing research—drawing from studies at Stanford University, Harvard University, and Boston College—to stay current with the struggles students face. He equips audiences with actionable steps to overcome obstacles, build resilience, and strengthen school culture. EJ leaves every school not only motivated but also empowered with practical strategies to create lasting change.