Kind words from happy clients:
I am a co-founder and president of the Houston Area Visually Impaired Network (HAVIN). I am writing to share my sincere, heartfelt appreciation for Sara Freeman-Smith. Our organization has an annual, signature event, the HAVIN Insight Expo, where we gather the blindness community from across the greater Houston area and share information and resources through panel discussions and workshops. When planning our 2019 HAVIN Insight Expo, one of our board members recommended Sara as someone she felt would make an excellent keynote speaker.
When I contacted Sara, she reacted in what I’ve come to know is her typical, humble style, as she graciously accepted to be our speaker. On the day of the event, I heard Sara deliver her keynote address and was wowed by her extremely personable manner, connecting with every one of the attendees in the audience. Sara deftly delivered her personal pearls of wisdom neatly wrapped around the theme of that year’s Insight Expo. I quickly understood why my fellow board member had recommended Sara…She totally rocks as a speaker!
— Ron Graham, President, Houston Area Visually Impaired Network
I would like to share how Sara Freeman Smith was a blessing. After hearing Sara speak, she approached me. I had never met her before. She asked if I believed in messengers. I answered yes. She said ‘I’m going to be your messenger’ and she did just that. I was struggling to get my non-fiction book published.
Sara guided me through the process. I owe much to Sara, a talented spiritual lady. Her book Turning Stone into Gems is a must-read, it will make you a believer; that anything is possible. If you’re looking for hope in your life get this book. We all need encouragement. If you’re looking for a motivational speaker call Sara. After hearing Sara speak you will be convinced that you can achieve your purpose in life no matter what age or stage in life.
— Landy Reed
About Sara Freeman Smith
Sara Freeman Smith is the esteemed founder and President of U R Gems LLC. She is a motivational force, in whatever task or role she considers and assumes — speaker, author, recruiter and a passionate advocate for recruiting people with disabilities.
Designated being legally blind over the years, is not in Sara’s psyche. Sara's boundless energy and unwavering passion inspires others with determination and the wherewithal to persevere and achieve their goals — whatever that might be. Over two decades ago, she embarked on her speaking career by authoring a self-help book titled, "Turning Stones into Gems: Finding Purpose in Your Life & Career." Since then, she has published its 3rd Edition and is often invited to share her wisdom with diverse audiences, both locally and nationally. Sara wholeheartedly utilizes her God-given gifts and talents to encourage and empower individuals in their personal and professional endeavors.
Sara proudly hails from Houston, Texas, and attended Phillis Wheatley High School. She holds the distinction of being an Honor Graduate of the University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, California and the University of Phoenix, Houston, Texas.
Forever learning and finding opportunities to give back, Sara is actively involved in several disability communities, and serves on several operating boards. She is a former commissioner on the Houston commission on disabilities and was appointed in 2018 by Mayor Turner to serve two terms focusing on disability issues within the greater Houston community. She was also a dedicated board member of the Texas Rehabilitation Association.
As a motivational speaker, Sara imparts valuable job search skills with career planning and personal insights as she wittingly entertains and walks you through experiential, participatory workshops available for various organizations, community groups and churches.
Additionally, Sara finds solace, strength and renewal in her membership and tutelage under the guidance of Senior Pastor, Reverend Byron Stevenson and First Lady, Sister Sonia Stevenson, The Fort Bend Church in Sugar Land, Texas.