Keynote Speaker

Actress, Director, Writer, Philanthropist

Actor-dancer-director Jasmine Guy has enjoyed a diverse career in television, theater and film. She began her professional career at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in New York City. Jasmine starred on Broadway in the original productions of Beehive and Leader of the Pack, and reprised hit productions of Grease, The Wiz and Chicago (as Velma Kelly).

After years on Broadway and touring the globe, Jasmine landed the role of Whitley Gilbert on the Cosby Show spinoff A Different World. She won six consecutive NAACP Image Awards for her portrayal of the pretentious but funny southern belle.

Her other television performances include: Melrose Place (with Heather Locklear); NYPD Blue (with Jimmy Smits); Fresh Prince of Bel Air (with Will Smith) and Living Single (with Queen Latifah). Her most recent role as Grams on the popular series Vampire Diaries can be seen on the CW Network. She has worked with great performers and directors such as: Spike Lee, Eddie Murphy, Alex Hailey and Debbie Allen. She can be seen currently in the film "October Baby", short-film, "What About Us" that recently debuted at the Bronze Lens Festival and is the Director of Kenny Leon's True Colors Theater Broadway show, "The Mountain Top".

With several film and television projects in the works, Jasmine has joined forces with her Managing Director, Mona Stephen who is CEO/Co-Founder of "Not Yours!", and I AM NOT YOURS Project whose mission is to financially support organizations who spread awareness & fight against child sex trafficking. Ms. Guy is national spokeswoman for the "I am Not Yours!" Campaign.

As a frequent motivational public speaker, Jasmine is called upon to share her story openly with those who may benefit from her trials and triumphs. Her ongoing desire to blend balance and discipline with ambition and service continues to fuel her passion for the arts.

She has traveled throughout the U.S. and appeared at more than 100 speaking engagements, addressing diverse audiences at colleges, universities, conventions, corporations, affinity groups, churches, high schools and countless charitable and fundraising events.