Rashan Legard is an International Motivational Speaker, Veteran, Storyteller, Poet, and Credentialed Survivor Advocate who strongly desires to create change in individuals and organizations. He is a sexual assault survivor who shares his experiences to empower others. His unique method of storytelling brings awareness to help change the culture for survivors. Through his company, Rashan Legard Speaks LLC is able to get his message to a broader audience by providing powerful presentations and coaching infused with his personal experience to organizations. By focusing on Resiliency Programs, Emasculation, Sexual Harassment and Assault Prevention, which enables him to help organizations improve their training and effectiveness while also bringing awareness to these critical issues. Overall, Rashan Legard's work is essential to the ongoing efforts to create safer and more equitable workplaces.

 

Originally from Lorain, Ohio, Rashan's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance. Despite academic setbacks, including repeating two grades, Rashan never lost sight of his goals. His determination led him to achieve his bachelor's degree in Communications and Broadcast from Central State University in 2011. After graduation, Rashan enlisted in the U.S. Army and was assigned to Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. However, his life took a drastic turn when he became a victim of sexual assault, a story that was featured on Cleveland Channel 19 News to bring attention to survivors across the country.

 

Rashan Legard, a survivor of sexual assault, became a catalyst for change by founding "Spoken Words of Pain" with his team of Bowie University Cadets. Through powerful spoken word performances, Rashan has impacted the Department of Defense and addressed issues such as unhealthy attitudes, unethical behaviors, and the importance of resilience. His innovative approach has given a voice to survivors and sheds light on the impact of trauma and awareness within organizations, inspiring audiences globally. Also, the 2021 (IRC) Independent Review Commission on Sexual Assault in the Military and Army Resilience Directorate states that an article on the Army's website says that Rashan's performance addressed these themes and "shines a spotlight on mental health, LGBTQ discrimination, respect for women, and race."

 

Rashan Legard's military journey began in 2012 when he joined as a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Specialist. In 2015, he made a significant transition by joining The Ohio State University ROTC Program while also pursuing a second degree in Social Work. This dual commitment to both military service and academic growth culminated in his graduation Magna Cum Laude in 2019. Rashan than commissioned and Branched Quartermaster to continue to serve in the Army until his medical retirement in 2022. Post-retirement, Rashan's commitment to personal growth remained steadfast as he earned a Master's in Social Work from The Ohio State University in 2023. He is currently pursuing his Doctrine to become a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership.

 

Outside of his professional work, Rashan enjoys traveling worldwide, writing poetry, and spending time with his family. He believes in the power of surrounding oneself with positive people who will hold them accountable and challenge them to grow.