About Deshauna

Motivational Speaker/Host

Deshauna Barber is a highly sought-after, award-winning motivational speaker who has captivated audiences worldwide. She has been invited to speak by Fortune 500 companies and top corporations, including Goldman Sachs, Amazon, Google, Procter & Gamble, CDW Corporation, and Estee Lauder. As an 11-year Army veteran, former Miss USA, and tech graduate, Deshauna brings a powerful blend of real-world experience, compelling storytelling, and a touch of humor to every stage. Her ability to inspire, empower, and connect with audiences makes her the perfect choice for organizations looking to ignite motivation, resilience, and leadership within their teams.

Former President Of Service Women's Action Network

In 2019, Deshauna made history as the youngest President and CEO of the Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN), a top nonprofit dedicated to advocating for servicewomen and female veterans. During her tenure, she championed women’s rights and resources on Capitol Hill, making significant strides in support of our nation’s service members. 

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Army Veteran

Barber dedicated more than 11 years of her life in service to her country. Commissioning as a Quartermaster Officer in 2011, she embarked on a proud journey, following in the esteemed footsteps of her mother, father, sister, and brother.
With a deep-seated passion for the well-being of our servicemen and women, Deshauna has devoted a significant portion of her career to advocating for soldiers grappling with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

DEI Expert & Tech Graduate

Deshauna Barber is a dynamic speaker and certified expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion with credentials from Cornell University, a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. As a trailblazer in the tech industry and beyond, she delivers powerful, thought-provoking keynotes on the impact of diversity in driving innovation, leadership, and organizational success. Her speeches go beyond theory—they challenge audiences to embrace inclusive strategies that foster collaboration, fuel creativity, and create lasting change. Whether speaking to Fortune 500 companies, tech leaders, or organizations striving for a more equitable future.

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Founder Of Women Veterans For Change

In 2024, Deshauna Barber founded Women Veterans for Change (WVFC) to ensure that women who have served in the military are heard, supported, and recognized. As an Army veteran, she knows the unique struggles women veterans face and created WVFC to provide advocacy, emergency assistance, and a community that truly understands their needs. Through national awareness efforts and direct financial support, WVFC is committed to making sure no woman veteran faces hardship alone. Serving your country shouldn’t mean struggling in silence, and WVFC is here to change that.

Former Miss USA

Deshauna made history on June 5th, 2016, when she was crowned the first Miss USA while actively serving in the United States military. Throughout her reign, she collaborated with esteemed organizations such as the USO, Smiletrain, Best Buddies, and Operation Homefront, among others, dedicated to enhancing the lives of people globally. 

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Author and Writer

Barber’s debut self-help book “Pretty Ugly Lessons” is a self care, self love and self improvement book that is filled with life stories, life lessons and strategies to overcoming adversity. Through practical guidance, inspiring stories, and soul-nurturing exercises, you will learn how to nurture your mind, body, and spirit.
This book is a gentle companion that will hold your hand as you navigate the ups and downs of my life’s lessons, providing you with the tools and insights to transcend self-doubt, fear, and insecurities. It is a testament to the incredible potential that lies within each of us to rewrite our stories and embrace a life of authenticity, purpose, and unconditional self-love.