About Deshauna
Motivational Speaker/Host
Deshauna Barber is a top requested black, female motivational speaker. She is heavily inspired by Iyanla Vanzant and uses her own twist of comedy and story telling to inspire her audience. As a Top Female Speaker, Deshauna has made it her life goal to Encourage, Inspire and Strengthen the people around her. Deshauna is a survivor of child sexual abuse and wants to inspire other survivors to fight through fears of their past. Deshauna has overcome bullying and after the recent loss of her mother to cancer she wants to encourage people to focus on loving ourselves and the people around us.
DEI Expert & Tech Graduate
Barber has a Diversity and Inclusion Certification from Cornell University and a Master of Science degree in Computer Information Systems from the University of Maryland University College. Deshauna Barber is at the forefront of advocating for diversity and inclusion in the ever-evolving landscape of technology and beyond. offers valuable insights into the importance of diversity in driving innovation and success. Deshauna's speeches resonate not only with tech enthusiasts but also with individuals and organizations seeking to cultivate inclusive environments that foster growth and collaboration.
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.
Former President Of Service Women's Action Network
In 2020, Deshauna made history by assuming the role of the youngest president ever appointed to lead the Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN). SWAN, esteemed as the nation's foremost 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and welfare of service women and women veterans nationwide, flourished under Deshauna's visionary leadership.
Although In the summer of 2023, Deshauna made the difficult decision to step down from her presidency at SWAN, her commitment to the advancement of women's rights remained steadfast. To this day, Deshauna continues to make significant contributions as a women's rights activist, leveraging her platform, influence, and unwavering determination to effect positive change.
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).
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. Armed with a bachelor's degree in Business Management and a master's degree in Computer Information Systems and Services, Deshauna brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her endeavors. Her commitment to public service extended beyond the pageant stage, as she devoted over eight years to government work, serving as a government IT Analyst at the Department of Commerce before assuming the title of Miss USA 2016.