Meet Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields
Dr. LaMarr D. Shields is an inspirational speaker, educator, thought-leader, author, and artist who creates with intention—on stage and off—guided by the Ubuntu truth: “I am because we are.”
An Open Society Institute Fellow and former faculty member at the Johns Hopkins School of Education, Dr. Shields is the co-founder and Senior Director of Education & Innovation at The Cambio Group. His life’s work is helping adults and young people lead with purpose, build sustainable success, and turn adversity into fuel—so they can create real opportunity in their personal, professional, and spiritual lives.
What I Learned in the Midst of KAOS:
The Making of an Ubuntu Teacher
Both cutting edge and timeless, this groundbreaking book takes you on a journey from the South Side of Chicago to the West Lawn of the White House. This book is an educational and biographical narrative of Dr. Shields’ life that will leave you a different, more engaged and enlightened person.
TAKE ME ON THE GO.
Dr. LaMarr D. Shields’ SoundBalming Podcast focuses on social change and activism. The podcast highlights changemakers and starts much needed conversations that apply to communities everywhere. Past guests have included Emmy Award-winner talk show host Mario Armstrong, noted cinematographer Hans Charles, an episode on How to Thrive in Life's Toughest Seasons with Dr. Jada Jackson, and many more. Start listening and start healing!
Inspirational Speaker
The youth are the future leaders of our world, and Dr. Shields believes we can’t leave them out of the discussion when we talk about education, adversity, and leadership. Dr. Shields brings his thought-provoking, engaging message directly to those who are affected both in and out of the classroom. He tailors his content for young people by sharing humorous and engaging stories from his own childhood experiences.
Engaging Youth
In 2025, Dr. LaMarr D. Shields wrote two children’s books—Lily and the Kindness Seeds and Lucas and the Lightning Storm Inside—and developed companion animations for both stories. He created the animations to bring the characters to life for young people, deepen engagement, and make the lessons more accessible for classrooms, families, and community settings. It’s one of the many ways Dr. Shields uses storytelling across multiple platforms—books, animation, live events, and interactive experiences—to reach, inspire, and connect with youth.
Inspiring Educators
Dr. Shields works with educators and education leaders to strengthen culture, improve communication, and support long-term sustainability in demanding environments. His sessions blend storytelling, leadership development, and wellness strategies to help professionals show up fully—for students, teams, and themselves.
Inspiring Youth & Adults | Building Leaders
Dr. Shields works with youth, emerging leaders, and professionals across corporations, nonprofits, schools, and government agencies to develop confident, values-driven leadership. His approach helps individuals clarify purpose, strengthen decision-making, and lead with integrity in their organizations and communities.
Engaging Parents & Caregivers
Dr. Shields partners with parents, caregivers, and family-serving organizations to support the whole ecosystem around young people. His work creates space for reflection, practical guidance, and honest conversation—helping families navigate learning, wellness, and connection at home and in the community.
Wellness
Dr. Shields brings wellness into spaces where stress, burnout, and responsibility are high—including corporate teams, government agencies, nonprofits, and schools. Through mindfulness, reflection, breathwork, and accessible practices, participants learn how to sustain themselves while continuing to lead and serve effectively.
Let’s Chat
I partner with corporations and governmental agencies to create impactful, tailored solutions—whether it’s leadership development, wellness programs, or culturally responsive training. My experience ranges from Fortune 500 companies to public sector agencies, always with a focus on fostering equity, engagement, and sustainable growth. Let’s collaborate to drive meaningful change in your organization.
In the Community
Dr. Shields works in concert with local and national community leaders to catalyze a national conversation about the plight of marginalized youth, parents, and communities, speaking to and working directly with educators, school boards, principals, law enforcement, clergy, social workers, parents, non-profit leaders, funders, and more.