Cover image: Monique delivering commencement address at Paris College of Art
Image courtesy of Paris College of Art

For most of my professional life, I have delivered speeches from stages around the world.

Over the years, my topics have ranged from veterinary pathology to time management to life balance for high-achieving women leaders.

But, unfailingly, I find that I get the most joy—and audiences receive the most inspiration—when I speak about the influence that the presence of Black people in Paris has had, and continues to have, on French culture. 

When I was asked to deliver the keynote commencement address for the graduating class of 2024 at the Paris College of Art, I was thrilled to craft an inspirational talk on the power of art and the power of artists, viewed through the lens of Paris expatriate Beauford Delaney's life and œuvre.

The audience's reception of the speech was overwhelmingly positive, and at that moment, I realized that my passion for connecting art, history, and the Black experience was not just meaningful—it was my calling.

After three months of intensive training offered by HeartPowered Business, I am ready to “step up my game” as a professional speaker. The program helped me refine not only my delivery, but also my storytelling—enriching how I connect with audiences through themes of culture, creativity, and Black excellence.

Left to right: Certificate of Recognition for Pro Speaker Launch program
and Monique Y. Wells at the Louvre

Whether presenting as a keynote speaker, moderator, panelist, or Master of Ceremonies, my goal is to educate and inspire audiences about the breadth and depth of African diaspora history, culture, and contemporary life in Paris.

Monique presenting at 2025 Paris Noir colloquium
Musée du quai Branly Jacques Chirac
© Entrée to Black Paris

Within that broad topic, I LOVE speaking about Beauford Delaney—the brilliant figurative and Abstract Expressionist artist from Knoxville, TN who spent the last 26 years of his life in Paris. 

Portrait of Beauford Delaney
(1953) Carl Van Vechten
Image in public domain

Monique presenting at GeoSym 2025 symposium
University of Tennessee Knoxville
© Entrée to Black Paris

Beauford's life and art have positively impacted the world in countless ways, beginning with the profound influence he had on one of our greatest writers—James Baldwin.

Through the U.S. nonprofit organization, the Wells International Foundation (WIF), elementary school children from Paris and Knoxville began learning each other's language and even came together in person in Paris through a curriculum based entirely on his life and art.

Artwork by students from Jean Zay Elementary School in Paris
© Wells International Foundation

Contemporary artists write poetry and compose music inspired by him. 

His life in Paris is the focus of a new study abroad program that is being developed at the University of Tennessee Knoxville.

(I also love speaking about the value of international travel and study abroad.)

And through its five-year collaboration with Entrée to Black Paris on the ETBP Cultural Awareness Program, WIF is seeking to establish a network of Beauford Delaney Scholars as part of its 10th anniversary initiatives.

I believe everyone can be moved by at least one element of Beauford's story and inspired by how his life and work have already positively influenced the lives of so many.

As I step into this next chapter of my speaking journey, I carry forward the same passion that has guided me throughout my years at Entrée to Black Paris—the desire to connect people through the narratives and artistic achievements of the African diaspora in Paris.

This moment isn’t simply about refining my stage presence or expanding my repertoire.

It’s about deepening my commitment to sharing the stories of Beauford Delaney, James Baldwin, and countless other Black expatriates who found a home—who made a home—in the City of Light. Their courage and creativity remind me that Black history is not a footnote—it’s a foundation.

Photograph of James Baldwin and Beauford Delaney, circa 1950s.
The Beauford Delaney Papers, MS.3967,
Betsey B. Creekmore Special Collections and University Archives,
University of Tennessee, Knoxville. 
Estate of Beauford Delaney
by permission of Derek L. Spratley, Esquire.

Whether I am addressing a global audience from the stage, moderating a panel, or leading a cultural awareness program, my goal remains the same: to inspire transformation through storytelling that enlightens, uplifts, and celebrates Black excellence.

If your organization seeks a keynote speaker, moderator, or program that explores and honors the depth and dynamism of Black presence in Paris and beyond, I invite you to connect with me to explore how we can collaborate.  I would be honored to bring that experience to your stage.

Monique speaking from the stage
Image courtesy of United Airlines

Together, we can ensure these stories continue to educate, empower, and illuminate the world.