Damali Peterman is a trailblazing conflict resolution expert, award-winning bestselling author, and CEO of BreakthroughADR, a global firm transforming how individuals and organizations navigate conflict and achieve workplace harmony. With over 20 years of experience as a lawyer, mediator, and educator, Damali is also a distinguished mediator, arbitrator, and ombudsman with JAMS, the largest private provider of alternative dispute resolution services in the world. Her expertise in negotiation and conflict resolution has made her a sought-after authority across industries.
Damali is the author of the award-winning and bestselling book Negotiating While Black: Be Who You Are to Get What You Want, published by Penguin Random House in North America and Bonnier Books internationally, where it is available in over 72 countries. The book has been celebrated for its insights on overcoming bias, embracing authenticity, and excelling in negotiations, cementing its place as a transformative resource for professionals and leaders worldwide.
In addition to her professional roles, Damali serves on the President’s Leadership Council for Search for Common Ground, the world’s largest dedicated peacebuilding organization. This esteemed nonprofit works across 30 countries to transform conflict into cooperation by fostering dialogue, understanding, and collaboration in divided communities. Through this role, Damali furthers her mission to create a more peaceful and equitable world.
A passionate educator, Damali is an adjunct professor at Howard University School of Law and a respected judge for global mediation competitions. She has traveled the globe delivering tailored workshops, online courses, and keynotes that empower individuals and organizations to turn conflict into collaboration. Her thought leadership has been featured in Forbes, Essence, Fast Company, Publishers Weekly, Rolling Stone, NBC, CBS, Fox, and more.
As a certified mediator, multilingual speaker, and proud alumna of the Tory Burch Foundation Fellowship and Goldman Sachs 10KSB program, Damali has received numerous accolades for her innovative approach to conflict resolution. Whether facilitating high-stakes mediations for JAMS, advising global peacebuilding efforts, or mentoring the next generation of leaders, Damali is dedicated to creating a world where empathy, fairness, and understanding thrive.
