Book Ashley as Your Next Speaker!
Ashley Bendiksen is an acclaimed survivor turned award-winning activist, speaker, and subject matter expert in domestic violence, family violence, teen dating violence, sexual assault, and trauma resilience. Ashley's powerful presentations have reached global audiences - from the U.S. Army to first responders, law enforcement, nonprofit, and corporate events. She combines lived experience with deep field expertise, and is also the Founder of the Blue Hearts Project, a global storytelling platform for survivors.
ASHLEY HAS WORKED WITH CLIENTS SUCH AS
MOST REQUESTED
- Law Enforcement and First Responders
- Victim Advocates and Social Services
- Threat and Risk Management Professionals
- Corporate, HR, and Workplace Wellness Trainings
- Military Branches and Bases
- Domestic and Sexual Violence Organizations
- Major Conferences and Fundraising Events
Signature Keynotes and Presentations
CORPORATE, THREAT/RISK MANAGEMENT, HR, WORKPLACE WELLNESS
In the U.S., domestic violence impacts 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men. This issue, often associated with home life, has direct consequences in the workplace. Research demonstrates losses in productivity, heightened anxiety, frequent tardiness and time off, lower morale, and significant risks for employers. In addition, domestic violence also harms employees’ mental health, emotional wellbeing, and physical safety. Addressing abuse and relationships is crucial for supporting employee wellness. This powerful presentation increases awareness, provides practical advice for individuals and those around them, as well as equips workplaces to foster a culture of support. Access this as a one-page PDF.
- Contextualize the issue through Ashley’s story as a survivor, plus other survivor accounts
- Education on domestic violence: prevalence, types, individual and workplace consequences
- Red flags to spot the symptoms and warning signs of abuse
- How to seek help and/or offer support to others
- Best practices and policies to alleviate risks/threats + strengthen employee wellness and culture
LAW ENFORCEMENT, FIRST RESPONDERS, & SERVICE PROVIDERS
“Incorporating Ashley Bendiksen’s presentation into our annual domestic violence training gave our law enforcement members and community partners a critical look at these types of cases from a survivor’s perspective. Her story of navigating through a complex cycle of abuse and trauma will undoubtedly help us better understand these types of cases as we investigate them and ensure a better outcome for future victims of this type of violence.” — Cayuga County Sheriff's Office
In the aftermath of trauma, the pivotal role of first responders and victim services professionals can’t be overstated. These interactions provide the foundation for a survivor’s journey and path forward. These interactions can also be challenging, and even dangerous for first responders. This engaging and transformative session equips attendees with valuable knowledge and tools they can instantly apply. It unfolds the complexities of abuse and teaches best practices to address what victims/survivors need most. As an experienced domestic violence speaker, Ashley leads with real-life examples, evidence-backed research, and group dialogue. Participants learn how to effectively support survivors, conduct effective investigations, and enhance overall response efforts. This talk leaves an indelible and lasting mark on one’s approach to victim advocacy and response.
- Understanding of the unique core wounds of abuse and common barriers to healing
- Strategies for first responders to mitigate risks, increase safety, and conduct effective interviews
- Delivering trauma-informed care to reduce revictimization and promote restoration
- Proven approaches to fostering survivor agency and self-advocacy
- Critical role of community partners, referrals, and a cross-coordinated response
NONPROFIT GALAS AND FUNDRAISING EVENTS
"Ashley Bendiksen was everything we wanted in a keynote speaker for our nonprofit’s fundraiser. She’s a topical expert on relationship abuse prevention and brought the perfect mix of authenticity, humor, and seriousness. Ashley left our guests deeply inspired to support our work and mission, and we raised $408,000." — One Love Foundation
Ashley Bendiksen has a rare talent for compelling audiences to take action. As a survivor, activist, top-rated speaker, and expert, Ashley helps audiences connect with the issues and understand the impact of their contributions. Her heartbreaking yet deeply inspiring story builds connection, optimism, and hope, while her advocacy work is proof that prevention and change are possible. With an added background in nonprofit leadership and a track record of raising over $5 million for dozens of charities, Ashley is guaranteed to make an impact for your organization. Keynotes are customized to your organization’s mission and specific event goals and include the following outcomes.
- Ashley’s deeply moving story as a former at-risk youth and survivor of domestic violence, teen dating violence, sexual assault, and complex trauma
- Pertinent supporting facts, reflection, and dialogue-inducing questions for your audience
- The pressing need and life-saving impact of organizational work, programs, and services
- A direct call to action by Ashley to invest in your mission and work as a critical catalyst for change
SCHOOLS, COLLEGES, AND YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS
Ashley uniquely specializes in how children and adolescents experience violence and abuse, as well as the opportunities and proactive strategies that exist to prevent harm. Statistically, youth experience abuse at higher rates than any other demographic. Abuse also tops the list of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) - posing short and long term risks. In the U.S., 1 in 3 teens will experience dating violence. New CDC data shows alarming increases in sexual violence among high school females. Further, 1 in 7 children experience abuse or neglect by someone they know, trust, or are in the care of. These experiences lead to safety risks, mental health and academic challenges, and significant secondary consequences. Primary prevention and education, trauma-informed practices, and early detection and intervention are crucial. Access a shareable one-page PDF.
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Ashley's Domestic Violence Work
Education & Training
- Valedictorian, Salve Regina University, B.A. in Administration of Justice
- Massachusetts Victim Assistance Academy
- Massachusetts Office of Victim Assistance Continuing Education
- Trained Rape Crises and Domestic Violence Responder
- Certified Facilitator, Safe Dates: A Teen Dating Violence Prevention Curriculum
- Trained in Green Dot and Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP) bystander prevention
Field Experience
- Military Sexual Assault Prevention Trainer
- Campus Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Victim Advocate
- Bystander Intervention Trainer for College Athletes
- District Court Victim Witness Advocate
- Executive Assistant and Press Assistant to the District Attorney
- Boston Celtics White Ribbon Campaign Co-organizer
- Facilitator, Safe Dates: Teen Dating Violence Prevention Curriculum
- White Ribbon Campaign, It's On Us Facilitator
- Community Education and Outreach Coordinator
- Superior Court Domestic Violence/Homicide Paralegal Intern
Leadership
- Founder, Blue Hearts Project - a global storytelling platform for survivors
- Testimony, MA Bill Mandating Employment Protections For Victims of Abuse
- Conference Speaker - NOVA (National Office of Victims Assistance), CESE (National Coalition to End Sexual Exploitation)
- Survivor in 8x Award-Winning Documentary, Notoriety Network's #SHEROProject
- Miss Rhode Island 2021, Platform to Raise Domestic Violence
- Board of Directors, Women's Resource Center
- Military Training Partner, Difference Makers #10Strong
- Featured SHERO for Arianna Huffington’s Thrive Global Magazine
- #TakeThePowerBack Ambassador, Mahendra Singh Foundation
Watch and Listen...
