ABOUT
KEL 'STRONG'
Kel Mabatah is a sought-after motivational speaker and professional bodybuilder who inspires others by sharing his story of survival and recovery after suffering a horrific, near-deadly attack that left him with a severe traumatic brain injury and paralysis. Instead of letting his physical limitations define his life, Kel underwent a decisive mental shift and leaned into fitness through which he has gained a unique perspective on overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Kel is also a philanthropist who started The ‘Kel Strong’ Mabatah Foundation to help individuals impacted by traumatic brain injuries with the recovery process. Kel is more than a speaker, he is a living testament that our circumstances do not define us, our mindset and actions do. Through his talks, Kel shares the steps and strategies that helped him to overcome challenges while facing adversity that will resonate with all audiences. Kel is extremely passionate about serving and helping others with the second chance at life that he has gotten.
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INSPIRING ACTION THROUGH RESILIENCE
KEL STRONG: CORE SPEAKING THEMES
Triumph Over Adversity: Kel's Journey of Resilience
Embracing Resilience: The Key to Overcoming Challenges
Unlocking Your Potential: Finding Strength in Setbacks
Thriving in the Face of Adversity: Strategies for Success
The Power of Hope: Turning Adversity into Purpose
The Kinkaid School invited Kel Mabatah to campus to share his powerful, courageous, and inspirational life story with our Upper School students. Having worked in schools for almost 30 years, I can say without exaggeration that his talk was one of the most impactful assemblies I’ve ever seen. Kel is a living embodiment of our school’s Core Values, and his ability to connect and relate to our students will not soon be forgotten.
Jonathan Eades, Head of School at The Kinkaid School
“Kel’s keynote presentation at our Summer Leadership Conference was phenomenal! His inspirational story is a reminder to keep moving forward in the face of adversity, and with hard work and a positive outlook, we can discover our true purpose. He had a profound impact on our attendees. I highly recommend Kel as a motivational speaker. He truly deserved the standing ovation!"
Leigh Phillips, Tennessee Education Association
"Kel Mabatah inspired our new Physical Therapist Assistant graduates with his survival story and recovery journey, emphasizing the impact of dedication in therapy. His motivational speech about hard work and overcoming challenges that leads to success deeply touched the students and their families. I know so many people are being touched by Kel's story and his compassionate heart to serve and inspire others."
Trixy Roy, PTA Instructor, Physical Therapist Assistant Program, Blinn College
"Kel inspired the Bellaire Southwest Houston Rotary Club with his talk on overcoming a traumatic brain injury and his ongoing challenges. The reception from our club's membership to his presentation was overwhelmingly positive. His powerful story of survival and recovery was well-received, making his visit a memorable honor for our club."
James Sanders, President Elect 2024-2025, The Bellaire Southwest Houston Rotary Club
"Kel spoke to our 2nd grade Cub Scouts about his life, focusing on overcoming injury and not giving up, in a way that was engaging for them. Kel did a wonderful job of talking about his life in a way that was relatable to this age group. He shared lessons on bravery, hard work, and never giving up, exemplified by his participation in bodybuilding competitions, which the boys loved hearing about. Thank you, Kel!"
Rebecca Doggett, Mother of 2nd Grade Cub Scout
"We want to thank Kel for taking the time to speak at the 2023 Brain Injury Awareness Events hosted by the Brain Injury Programs of Health and Human Services Commission. His presence and the information presented made a huge impact on the brain injury community to provide a pathway to recovery and a connection to hope."
Blake Agee, The Brain Injury Programs Health and Human Services Commission
“We were absolutely blessed to welcome Kel to speak to our high school students. His story of divine intervention and human willpower was extraordinarily inspiring. He was able to craft his message in a way that helped to speak to our specific community and challenged us to grow our faith by trusting God, working hard, and never giving up. He helped many to find purpose beyond our circumstances!”
Aaron Marez, Coordinator of Spiritual Development at The Woodlands Christian Academy
“Kel's visit to our middle school was nothing short of extraordinary. His powerful story of resilience deeply moved our students, who were completely engaged from start to finish. I’ve never witnessed such a strong, heartfelt response to a speaker—many stayed afterward just to thank him personally. Kel has a rare gift for connection, and we would be honored to welcome him back again."
Charlie Gramatges, Head of Middle School at The Kinkaid School
"Kel Mabatah’s recent speech at The Village School was nothing short of life-changing. His authenticity, resilience, and powerful storytelling deeply moved our students—one even shared that his story had changed her life. Kel doesn’t just inspire; he transforms. Through ‘Kel Strong,’ he offers hope and courage, reminding us all that we can overcome adversity. His message leaves a lasting imprint, and I wholeheartedly support his mission"
Bill Delbrugge, Head of School, The Village School
“Kel Mabatah’s speech at Smith & Hassler was deeply moving and inspiring. Kel’s authentic and vulnerable storytelling captivated our team. His story of resilience, hope, and perseverance as a traumatic brain injury survivor left a lasting impact on our team. Kel’s message of empowerment reminded us of the strength within and the importance of community. I highly recommend Kel as a speaker for any event seeking true inspiration and motivation.”
Michael J. Smith, Managing Partner, Smith & Hassler Personal Injury Law Firm
“Kel Mabatah’s story of perseverance and faith deeply resonated with our middle school students. His heartfelt delivery and willingness to engage with students afterward made a lasting impact. We’ve had him speak twice and look forward to welcoming him back again.”
Cindy Proske, Director of Middle School at The Village School
“Kelubia Mabatah’s powerful story of resilience and personal growth left a lasting impact on our audience. His confidence, authenticity, and poetic reflections on overcoming adversity were both moving and inspiring. For anyone seeking a motivational speaker who embodies resilience, health, and personal growth, we highly recommend Kelubia. His powerful message is not only inspiring, but also a testament to the strength of the human spirit.”
Abbie Markowitz, Festival Coordinator, ReelAbilities Houston Film and Arts Festival
TESTIMONIALS
WATCH MY SPEAKING DEMO VIDEOS
