Unfortunately, there are still some industries where you can't be successful because of your race... or your gender... or your age... or your lifestyle... or your physical appearance... or your level of education... or lots of other exclusionary factors.
But not professional speaking! Being "different" is not only acceptable, it can actually be an asset in creating a successful career as a pro speaker.
Here's the bottom line - if pro speaking is your dream, then nothing - not your age, not your gender, not your race - nothing stands between you and the fulfillment of your dream!