Fashion Designer & Social Impact Leader; Founder of Kenneth Cole Productions; Author of "Footnotes"; Subject of "A Man With Sole" Documentary
Kenneth Cole Biography
Kenneth Cole is a fashion designer, entrepreneur, social activist, and philanthropist known for integrating commerce and social responsibility throughout his career. Cole founded Kenneth Cole Productions, launching the company with an innovative approach by securing a film production permit to sell shoes near the New York Shoe Expo, an event that marked the beginning of his global fashion brand. The company expanded to include clothing, footwear, and accessories under labels such as Kenneth Cole New York, Reaction Kenneth Cole, Unlisted, and Gentle Souls. At its peak, the company reached a significant market capitalization before Cole took it private, establishing his reputation in the fashion industry.
Cole has consistently used his brand as a platform for social change, becoming one of the first fashion leaders to advocate for AIDS awareness. He launched the industry's first AIDS public service ad campaign and served on the board of amfAR, the Foundation for AIDS Research, later becoming its chairman. Cole was named a UNAIDS International Goodwill Ambassador and received the CFDA Swarovski Award for Positive Change, among other humanitarian recognitions. His advertising campaigns have addressed issues such as homelessness, reproductive rights, and gun safety, positioning the Kenneth Cole brand at the intersection of fashion and social activism.
In addition to his work in fashion, Cole is the author of books including "Footnotes: What You Stand for Is More Important Than What You Stand In," "Awearness: Inspiring Stories About How to Make a Difference," and "This Is a Kenneth Cole Production." These works explore business ethics, identity, and corporate social responsibility. Cole has delivered keynote addresses at universities and industry events, and participated in forums on topics such as artificial intelligence and global health. The documentary "A Man with Sole" chronicles his life and career, highlighting his commitment to activism and the role of business in addressing societal issues.
Cole has also focused on mental health advocacy, founding The Mental Health Coalition to combat stigma and promote access to care. The coalition brings together organizations such as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the JED Foundation, NAMI, and The Trevor Project. Initiatives like the "How Are You, Really?" platform and "Wellbeing at Work" summits have engaged leaders and experts in discussions about workplace mental health. For his efforts, Cole has received the Visionary Change Maker Award from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the Suicide Prevention Champion Award, and the United Hospital Fund's Special Tribute. Footwear News recognized him as Icon for Social Impact, and the American Apparel and Footwear Association named him Person of the Year, underscoring his enduring influence in fashion, mental health advocacy, and social impact.
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Kenneth Cole Videos
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Our experienced booking agents have successfully helped clients around the world secure speakers like Kenneth Cole for speaking engagements, personal appearances, product endorsements, or corporate entertainment since 2002. Click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page to check availability for Kenneth Cole, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to discuss your upcoming event. One of our experienced agents will be happy to help you get speaking fee information and check availability for Kenneth Cole or any other speaker of your choice. -
What are the speaker fees for Kenneth Cole
Speaking fees for Kenneth Cole, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book Kenneth Cole are $30,000 - $50,000 for live events and available upon request for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire Kenneth Cole, click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent. -
What topics does Kenneth Cole speak about?
Kenneth Cole is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Art & Design, Fashion, Fashion, HIV & AIDS, Jewish Heritage, Mental Health, Philanthropy, Social Activism -
Where does Kenneth Cole travel from?
Kenneth Cole generally travels from New York, NY, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent. -
Who is Kenneth Cole’s agent?
AAE Speakers Bureau has successfully booked keynote speakers like Kenneth Cole for clients worldwide since 2002. As a full-service speaker booking agency, we have access to virtually any speaker or celebrity in the world. Our agents are happy and able to submit an offer to the speaker or celebrity of your choice, letting you benefit from our reputation and long-standing relationships in the industry. Please click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page including the details of your event, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536, and one of our agents will assist you to book Kenneth Cole for your next private or corporate function. -
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Kenneth Cole is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics. The estimated speaking fee range to book Kenneth Cole for your event is $30,000 - $50,000. Kenneth Cole generally travels from New York, NY, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Van Jones, Brian Grazer, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Alice Park and Linnea Roberts. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Kenneth Cole for an upcoming live or virtual event.
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