PLASTICS announces keynote speaker for 2026 National Plastics Conference
Shola Richards will be the keynote speaker for the 2026 National Plastics Conference, the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) has announced.
Richards is a workplace transformation expert and author who will speak on the topic of “Strong Enough to Be Kind,” sharing practical insights on strengthening workplace culture and building more effective, accountable teams, drawing on his experience working with organizations around the world.
The conference is scheduled for Sept. 14-17 in Houston.
“Shola’s keynote will spark meaningful conversations and provide attendees with actionable strategies to build stronger, more resilient workplace cultures,” said Apryl Alexander-Savino, PLASTICS’ VP of events and marketing. “His message, centered on the strength it takes to lead with kindness and accountability, will set the tone for a dynamic week of learning, collaboration and forward-thinking. The National Plastics Conference brings together leaders from across the industry, and this year’s keynote will be a standout moment.”
Richards has testified before Congress on civility and spoken to audiences at organizations across three continents, including Google, Microsoft and St. Jude Children's Hospital. He helps organizations eliminate workplace challenges and foster cultures grounded in respect, accountability and high performance.
He is the author of “Civil Unity: The Radical Path to Transform Our Discourse, Our Lives, and Our World;” “Go Together: How the Concept of Ubuntu Will Change How You Live, Work and Lead;” and “Making Work Work: The Solution for Bringing Positive Change to Any Work Environment.” He also hosts The Kindness Extremist podcast, where he explores practical ways to navigate conflict, lead with empathy and create lasting change.
The National Plastics Conference aims to bring together the entire plastics supply chain for industry-driven education, collaboration and progress. The conference offers an opportunity to explore leadership, advocacy and market trends while discovering cutting-edge advancements and building valuable industry connections.
For more information and to register, visit https://nationalplasticsconference.org.