Media & Speaking Engagements
Clinton G Johnson is a TEDx speaker, award-winning National Geographic Explorer, and a sought-after voice on racial justice, geospatial technology, and community empowerment. With a dynamic approach to storytelling and advocacy, Clinton’s talks resonate with audiences in schools, conferences, and institutions around the world.
Featured: TEDx Talk
In his TEDx talk, Clinton explores the power of storytelling and geospatial technology to drive social change. With firsthand insights into the intersection of geography and racial justice, he inspires audiences to see the transformative potential of geospatial data and empathy-driven storytelling.
*Note: The video for Clinton’s TEDx talk is forthcoming. Stay tuned to watch it here!*
Geography Awareness Week
Clinton G. Johnson emphasizes the critical role that mapping plays in advancing racial justice. He argues that every map created should serve as a tool for social equity, reflecting the realities and needs of marginalized communities. During his feature by National Geographic for Geography Awareness Week 2023, Clinton outlined his vision where maps do not simply represent spatial data but are instrumental in driving actionable change.
He believes that change is not passive; it requires intention and action. Maps can illuminate disparities, guide policymakers, and empower communities to advocate for their rights. By incorporating antiracist principles in geospatial practices, Clinton asserts that cartographers and geographers must strive to produce inclusive and representative maps, addressing historical injustices and promoting a more equitable future.
Clinton's efforts highlight the intersection of geography and social justice, reaffirming that every map can be a catalyst for change when designed with purpose and committed to fostering racial equity.
Media Highlights and Awards
National Geographic Wayfinder Award
In 2023, Clinton was acknowledged alongside 14 other emerging leaders, storytellers, and innovators whose vital work motivates us to appreciate and protect our planet.
Individual DEI Trailblazer Award by WGIC
In 2022, Clinton received the World Geospatial Industry Council (WGIC) DEI Trailblazer – Individual Champion Award for his significant work promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the geospatial community.
Selected Media Features
![Clinton G Johnson waving to the audience at the National Geographic Society 2023 Explorer Festival [Photo Credit: Joy Asico]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/665354511498e80e465a7450/12a0c2c9-781f-45c7-a9c6-2669024d999e/NGS2023EXFEST_Wayfinders+Spotlight_0613_cr+Joy+Asico_JA-020.JPG)
Interested in Speaking Engagements
Clinton is available for speaking engagements, from schools to conferences. His speaking engagements cover a range of critical topics at the intersection of geography, racial justice, and storytelling. His presentations are known for being impactful and transformative, empowering audiences to rethink equity and inclusion in their work and communities.
Topics List
Geography and Racial Justice: Exploring how geospatial data can address systemic inequalities.
Empathy and Storytelling in Technology: Using empathy-driven data to create more inclusive narratives.
Building Equity in Geo-Fields: Lessons from founding NorthStar of GIS and advocating for racial equity in geography.
Black Experiences in Professional Spaces: Insights from the Black At Work project.