About Koran Bolden
This page provides an introduction to Koran Bolden, a motivational speaker dedicated to empowering youth and inspiring positive change. Learn more about his story, mission, and how he impacts schools and communities across the country through his bold approach to leadership and personal growth.
ABOUT KORAN BOLDEN
THE BEGINNING
Koran Bolden’s journey is one of unwavering hope, resilience, and transformation. Born in South City Saint Louis, Missouri, Koran grew up with big dreams, despite the challenges of losing his brother to gun violence and being raised in a single-parent household. Though his early years were marked by academic success, trauma and heartache pulled him in a different direction. His struggles with school suspensions and behavioral issues led some to predict a bleak future. But even in his darkest moments, there was a light inside him that refused to dim.
ABOUT KORAN BOLDEN
Reigniting Hope
At 12 years old, that light was reignited by someone who saw beyond his pain: his school counselor, Martha Christmas. She dared to believe in Koran when others had given up, enrolling him in mentorship programs and taking him on his first college trip. Through her guidance, Koran rediscovered his purpose and found the courage to dream again. By the time he was a teenager, he had already launched his first business and record label, driven by a passion to create something bigger than himself. Despite early success and landing a multi-million-dollar contract, life took a tough turn. He lost it all—through unpreparedness and careless spending. But even then, Koran wasn’t defeated.
ABOUT KORAN BOLDEN
A Journey of Faith, Family, and Resilience
When Koran learned he was going to be a father, he faced a life-altering choice: continue chasing his dreams or break the cycle and be present for his son. He chose family, putting his dreams on hold. Yet those dreams didn’t die. With the unwavering support of his best friend and future wife, LaPortcia, Koran realized that setbacks are setups for comebacks. Together, they built a new foundation, rooted in faith, love, and perseverance. Koran stepped into the corporate world, mastering marketing and sales while reigniting his passion for serving his community. In 2010, he and LaPortcia launched Street Dreamz Recording Studio, a place where young people could express themselves, build confidence, and stay out of harm’s way. The studio’s strict "No Profanity" policy empowered young artists to create positive change through their music, and soon, its impact spread far and wide. Koran became a trusted advisor for initiatives like the Ferguson Commission, a task force designed to help heal the state of Missouri after the devastation of the Ferguson riots.
ABOUT KORAN BOLDEN
Koran’s Mission to Empower Youth and Break Cycles of Violence
Today, Koran has inspired over 500,000 youth and aspiring business leaders on stages and arena’s across the globe through more than 950 motivational presentations. His mission is bold: to disrupt, dismantle and destroy the school-to-prison pipeline, reduce gun violence, and empower students struggling with ADHD and mental health challenges. Through his mobile motivation app, social media campaigns, and his book *Rock, Paper, Scissors*, Koran is committed to showing others that no matter where you start, your story isn’t over. Koran’s impact has been felt far and wide, catching the attention of the President and Program Directors at iHeart Radio. Seeing the need for youth to have a platform to voice their concerns and share their life experiences, Koran, alongside his soon-to-be co-host Meghan O, was tapped to launch a new radio show on iHeart’s 100.3 The Beat. Every Sunday evening, the show gives young people a safe space to express their thoughts, share their life highlights, and make their voices heard, valued, and respected.
ABOUT KORAN BOLDEN
Shaping a Safer Future
Koran has also been tapped by the Saint Louis Mental Health Board, Saint Louis Health Department, and Saint Louis City Mayor Tishaura Jones to advise on crime prevention strategies aimed at youth. Through the Office of Violence Prevention initiatives, Koran's guidance plays a crucial role in reducing youth violence and helping reshape the city’s future for the better. In addition to his groundbreaking work in media and youth advocacy, Koran and his Bold Moves Worldwide team have raised over $350,000 for local nonprofits and schools. One of the most significant efforts took place in April 2020 when Koran was asked to spearhead a campaign to save the historic Annie Malone Child & Family Services.
ABOUT KORAN BOLDEN
Koran’s Digital Campaign Sparks $91K in 5 Days
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the cancellation of the annual May Day Parade, the organization faced potential closure. Koran accepted the challenge, launching a digital campaign on Facebook and Instagram. In just five days, they raised over $91,000 from more than 2,500 individual donors, with the campaign reaching over 5 million impressions online. It was a testament to the power of community and the impact that one determined individual can make. In recognition of his incredible contributions, March 21, 2014, was declared “Koran Bolden Day” in Saint Louis County. His journey is a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and believing in something greater. He has received numerous accolades, including the Verizon Wireless Everyday Hero Award and the Mercedes Benz Rising Star Award, and through his Bold Futures Foundation, he continues to pave the way for young people to rise above their circumstances and claim their futures.
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Koran Bolden’s Journey of Advocacy and Leadership
One of the most humbling honors of Koran’s journey came when he was asked to throw the opening pitch at the Saint Louis Cardinals game at Busch Stadium, in recognition of his mental health advocacy work. In a powerful moment of unity, the Cardinals gifted him 2,500 tickets to distribute to schools and community empowerment organizations, extending his message of hope and resilience to a wider audience. Koran’s impact extends beyond youth advocacy. He was interviewed by *Forbes* after speaking at the YPO Southern Region Conference, where he addressed over 100 top CEOs with an average net worth of $200+ million. His message of resilience and purpose continues to inspire business leaders at the highest level, reminding them that success is about more than just wealth—it's about making a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Koran Bolden is living proof that no matter the obstacles, you can always rise, rebuild, and turn your dreams into reality.
TV NETWORKS THAT KORAN BOLDEN HAS BEEN SEEN ON:
Koran Bolden’s Powerful Partnership with iHeartMedia's 100.3 The Beat
Koran’s impact has been felt far and wide, reaching diverse communities through his inspiring work. His partnership with 100.3 The Beat amplifies this impact even further, allowing him to connect with listeners across the region. Together, they foster positive change by motivating youth, promoting personal development, and encouraging community engagement. This collaboration has enabled Koran to extend his reach, influencing countless lives and strengthening his mission to inspire the next generation.
