Ken Nwadike Jr. facts for kids

Kenneth E. Nwadike Jr. is an American documentary filmmaker, motivational speaker, and peace activist. He is widely known as the "Free Hugs Guy." Ken started the Free Hugs Project. His "Free Hugs" videos have been watched hundreds of millions of times on Facebook and YouTube.

Ken Nwadike Jr.'s Career and the Free Hugs Project

In 2014, Ken Nwadike Jr. started the Free Hugs Project. He wanted to spread love after the Boston Marathon bombing. The project became very popular in 2016. Ken made headlines for helping calm down tense situations. He did this during protests, riots, and political gatherings.

Google featured Ken in its 2016 Year in Search video. This video highlighted important moments of the year. Ken has also appeared on many news shows and radio programs. These include CNN, USA Today, Good Morning Britain, and BBC News.

Ken is also the head of Superhero Events, LLC. This company organizes the yearly Hollywood Half Marathon. This marathon happens every spring in Hollywood, California. It helps raise money for shelters that support young people experiencing homelessness.

On March 30, 2016, Ken released a video called "Donald Trump Rally Free Hugs vs Bernie Sanders Rally Free Hugs." He shared it on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter. This video quickly became very popular. His hashtag #MakeAmericaLoveAgain also became a trending topic. His "Free Hugs" videos have been viewed hundreds of millions of times.

During Super Bowl LIV in 2020, Ken Nwadike was in a Budweiser commercial. The commercial was called "Typical American." It showed "extraordinary people that represent the best of America."

Ken's Work and Inspiration

As a motivational speaker, Ken shares his own story. He talks about a time when he was homeless. He explains how he overcame feeling unsure of himself. He did this by joining school activities. He says the support from coaches, teammates, and friends helped him. This support led him to start several businesses. He also created a charity that helps homeless teenagers.

The Free Hugs Project also runs programs for workplaces and colleges. These programs aim to bring people together. They help bridge differences between groups. They also encourage people to be polite and kind to each other.

Live Appearances and Media Features

Besides his YouTube and Facebook videos, Ken Nwadike has been on many news shows and radio broadcasts around the world.

• April 4, 2012 – Ken was featured on an NBC 4 Los Angeles special called "Life Connected."
• April 5, 2016 – Ken was interviewed by Pix 11 news. He shared why he started the Free Hugs Project.
• March 23, 2016 – The Free Hugs Guy was interviewed live on the Fox 5 San Diego morning show. He talked about his project and gave hugs to the news anchors.
• September 16, 2016 – Ken worked with the hosts of Good Morning Britain in London. They launched "Free Hugs Friday" together.
• September 23, 2016 – Ken was interviewed live on CNN by Poppy Harlow. This happened after protests in Charlotte.
• January 24, 2020 – Ken Nwadike visited Fox 5 San Diego again. He discussed his role in the Budweiser Super Bowl 2020 commercial.

Awards and Recognitions

Films Featuring Ken Nwadike Jr.

See also

In Spanish: Ken E. Nwadike Jr para niños

• Free Hugs Campaign