James McLeod

James McLeod is a motivational keynote speaker, author and personal trainer whose life reflects resilience, redemption and radical self-acceptance. Known widely as ‘That Vitiligo Guy’, he has transformed early adversity, including bullying and imprisonment, into a powerful platform for change. Today, James is recognised as a motivational speaker, author, personal trainer, DJ and entrepreneur, inspiring audiences to embrace their differences and step confidently into their potential.

Diagnosed with vitiligo at just 18 months old, James grew up navigating a world that did not understand his condition. As a young Black boy with visible loss of skin pigmentation, he faced constant bullying and isolation at school. Classmates questioned his appearance and he often felt defined by something beyond his control. By the age of seven he had begun to accept his skin, and by eleven he had embraced it fully, adopting the nickname ‘DJ Half’ as a symbol of confidence rather than shame. Despite that inner strength, his teenage years took a difficult turn. Influenced by his surroundings and searching for belonging, James became involved in drug dealing at 13, leading to time in juvenile detention and later federal prison. Prison became a defining chapter. Through reflection, mentorship and personal responsibility, he made a clear decision to rebuild his life and never return to that environment.

Following his release in 2012, James committed himself to change. Starting with his first job at Panera Bread, he rebuilt his life step by step, focusing on fitness, education and personal development, including pursuing his GED. He went on to become the author of two children’s books, ‘The Boy Behind the Face’ and ‘My Daily Superpowers’, both centred on confidence, courage and kindness. His work has been featured in CR Fashion Book, on Bodybuilding.com, and in campaigns for SoulCycle, expanding his reach beyond advocacy into mainstream culture. In 2020, he was a Featured Presenter at World Vitiligo Day, strengthening his reputation as a leading voice for inclusion and self-acceptance. Alongside his speaking career, James works as a Youth Advocate supporting juvenile justice reform, using his lived experience to guide policy conversations and community programmes.

Organisations hire James because he speaks from experience, not theory. He delivers honest, high-energy keynotes on resilience, inclusion, mental wellbeing, second chances and youth empowerment. James connects deeply with students, corporate teams and community groups, sharing practical lessons on rebuilding confidence and redefining identity. His message is clear, uplifting and actionable. James leaves people with the courage to ‘smile and let your happy shine’, creating impact that lasts well beyond the event itself.