Audience: Educators/Staff

Maryanne Oketch

CBS Survivor Winner and Storyteller

Topics: Diversity and Inclusion, Leadership Development, Motivation and Inspiration, Resilience, Women's Leadership
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Elementary, Faith-Based, Middle/High School, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
AND TOPICS

Playing the Game of Life

On the 42nd season of Survivor, Maryanne played a game that allowed her to Outwit, Outplay, and Outlast the other contestants and gain the title of Sole Survivor. But what skillset did Maryanne use to achieve her success, and are they useful outside of the microcosm of Survivor? In this talk, Maryanne will discuss how what strategies she used to succeed, and show how the skillset of survivor can be transferred into your everyday life.

Embracing Fear

Everyone is afraid of something. When we think about fear, we usually think of fears that can be easily avoided, such as the fear of heights, spiders, or public speaking. What is not usually talked about are the fears that may affect the way you navigate your professional development, such as the fear of failure, or even the fear of making the wrong decision. If we are unprepared when we encounter these fears, we might let opportunities slip away. In this talk, Maryanne will share her experiences about facing her fears, both big and small, and will empower those who are listening to acknowledge their fears and conquer them.

Anti-Black Racism

As we become more aware of the inequalities that members of minority communities face, it is important to understand what the systemic issues are that lead to injustice. In this talk, Maryanne will draw from her personal life experiences to help break down what anti-black racism is and explain the subtle effects anti-black racism has in media, institutions, and in personal life.

Overcoming Adversity

What is Adversity? Drawing from experiences from her life, Maryanne will explore what Adversity is, and will provide the audience with tools and strategies that they can use to succeed in any situation that they might face.

Authenticity and Being True to Yourself

When growing up, we are always told to be our authentic self, and to be who we are, but what does that mean? Drawing from her experiences in life, Maryanne will explore the ways that you can discover your true personality, and allow yourself to shine in whatever situation that you are placed in.

More Information

REQUEST TO BOOK Maryanne Oketch

If comfortable, please use a personal email as many school boards have blocked external emails.

Dave Jonsson

Professional Skateboarder and Plane Crash Survivor

Topics: Bullying, Faith/Religion - Christian Based, Leadership Development, Motivation and Inspiration, Resilience, Stress and Anxiety Management
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Elementary, Faith-Based, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
AND TOPICS

The Brilliance of Resilience - Keynote

The attitude of resiliency is foundational to any success story. In fact, in order to succeed, we first must fall and make mistakes. It’s the pathway to growth and experience. Using his skateboard as a tool to communicate this truth, Dave takes the audience on a vibrant journey of his life. He shares his story of surviving a plane crash as well as some practical principles on how to leverage seasons of pain to gain a greater perspective. The audience will leave encouraged and challenged to dig deep and find an attitude of resiliency within themselves that they previously didn’t know was there.

Age range: Elementary, Middle School, High school, College, Corporate, Educators.

Kindness Counts - Keynote

What do you want to be remembered for in life? Even though your job, health, and money may seem like the most important things, are they really? No matter who you are, what you will be remembered for the most is how you treated those around you. That’s why Kindness Counts! In this presentation, Dave shares stories of immigrating from Iceland and experiencing the feeling of being an outsider. If it hadn’t been for the kindness of those around him, he wouldn’t be the same person he is today! Dave uses the art of storytelling to show how kindness is the one thing that counts most in life.

Age range: Elementary, Middle School, High school, College, Corporate, Educators.

Leave Life Empty - Workshop

One proverb says, “For I have been poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race!” That’s an interesting thing to say, to be poured out, empty! You see, the point of life is not to finish full of dreams, and full of ambition, but empty! Les Brown once said, “The graveyard is the richest place on earth, because it is here that you will find all the hopes and dreams that were never fulfilled, the books that were never written, the songs that were never sung, the inventions that were never shared, the cures that were never discovered, all because someone was too afraid to take that first step, keep with the problem, or determined to carry out their dream.” What is the lasting contribution you can make to this planet and to those around you? What is your talent? In this workshop, Dave challenges students and leaders alike to live their lives with service in mind. Using hands-on tools and engaging applications, students will leave challenged to give life their all, investing their talent into the betterment of others.

Age range: Elementary, Middle School, High school, College, Corporate, Educators.

TRUST: Build Bridges, Not Breaches - Workshop

It has been said that “trust is the currency of every relationship.” In today’s world, where trust is the foundation of meaningful connections, Dave’s workshop titled “TRUST: Build Bridges, Not Breaches” centers around the essential pillars that contribute to building and maintaining trust. Consistency, Transparency, Competency, and Empathy serve as the core pillars in fostering strong connections and nurturing trust.

Regardless of your position or title, trust is an essential ingredient for success. Through thought-provoking discussions, interactive exercises, and real-life examples, Dave provides practical tools and strategies to enhance your ability to cultivate trust across various areas of life. Whether you are a leader, a professional, or someone seeking to deepen personal connections, this workshop equips you with the knowledge and skills to establish and nurture trust in all your relationships.

Testimonials

Speaker Testimonials

Today we had Dave come in and speak to our students and the presentation was exactly what we hoped for – more in fact. Dave’s message on the power of kindness and resiliency was expertly woven through the story of his life. While telling us about his experiences surviving a plane crash, being a newcomer to Canada, and a little bit of world history, Dave highlighted the power of being kind and the power of being resilient. Dave’s message resonates so loudly with our school values but it was Dave’s public speaking ability that had our students captivated the second they entered the gym. Walking in and seeing a professional skateboarder doing tricks as they entered set the tone for what was to be, a wonderful experience to bring our community together. Dave’s excellent public speaking skills then took our audience on a wonderful journey through his story – all the while having the audience hanging on every word. Dave’s presentation was a dynamic way to start off our year.

Darren Stewart, Principal of Pitt River Middle School

Today we had Dave in to speak to the entire school in our gym. As the students entered our gym and saw Dave doing some tricks on his skateboard their energy level went up and the student’s attention was his. Throughout his presentation and the telling of his stories, the students were engaged and interested in what he had to say. Dave’s message was fantastic and very important for our students and staff to hear. His closing stunt left the kids cheering and wanting to see more. We all thoroughly enjoyed Dave’s presentation as his message was relative, passionate, and honest.

Brad Downey, Principal at Scott Creek Middle School, Coquitlam BC

As a youth recreation worker, I have been given the opportunity to witness Dave Jonsson speak and connect with youth. Dave has the natural ability to engage an audience and motivate them to be the best versions of themselves. He really is a true inspiration!

Carissa Keenan, Manager at Greg Moore Youth Centre
More Information

REQUEST TO BOOK Dave Jonsson

If comfortable, please use a personal email as many school boards have blocked external emails.

Nadia Ladak

Youth Entrepreneurship Speaker and Co-Founder and CEO of Marlow

Topics: College and Career Prep, Entrepreneurship, Environmental and Global Issues, Motivation and Inspiration, Women's Leadership
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
AND TOPICS

Keynote - Becoming a Youth Entrepreneur: Finding a Problem You're Passionate About Solving (High School, University, Corporate)

In this keynote, Nadia discusses her journey building her startup Marlow from a school project to a fast growing investor backed startup. She candidly shares her experience as a young entrepreneur and how it all stemmed from finding a problem she was determined to solve. Students will walk away feeling inspired and motivated to think about how they can tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges.

Keynote - Finding a Non-Traditional Career Path: Becoming a Youth Entrepreneur at 22 (High School, University)

In high school and university, there is a lot of pressure to find the “perfect” career path. After switching from a music degree to a business program, and going from management consulting to starting her own business, Nadia shares her career journey with students and shows them that it’s ok to not know what’s next. This inspiring and motivating talk will ensure students walk away with key insights on how to decide what’s next for them.

Keynote - Embracing Fear

Nadia started her career working in a stable corporate job. Just one year later, she quit that cushy job to jump in to work full-time on her startup Marlow. This talk goes through Nadia’s entrepreneurial journey, her lessons learned, and how she embraced fear throughout her entire time as a 25 year old entrepreneur.

Keynote - Building a Community-Driven Brand (Corporate)

Designed for corporate professionals, this keynote covers what it takes to build a digitally savvy brand perfect for the modern Gen Z consumer. Through organic content marketing and effective storytelling, Nadia has grown her startup Marlow’s online community to 50,000 individuals. In this workshop, she will share the key principles to building a strong online presence around your brand.

Workshop - Navigating the Innovation Process

In this interactive workshop, students or corporate professionals will go through a design-thinking workshop and explore all of the principles of innovation. After this workshop, individuals will feel empowered to think differently, identify problems in their workplaces or schools, and go through a process to find effective solutions.

Testimonials

Speaker Testimonials

“Nadia openly shares her journey as a young entrepreneur and it’s truly so inspiring. Our students are still talking about it and some have already emailed her about potential internship opportunities because they want to work for Marlow! They were all just so moved by her story.”

More Information

REQUEST TO BOOK Nadia Ladak

If comfortable, please use a personal email as many school boards have blocked external emails.

Kwame Osei

Former CFL Player, Amazing Race Finalist, Resilience, Mental Health and DEI expert

Topics: Diversity and Inclusion, Leadership Development, Mental Health, Motivation and Inspiration, Resilience
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
AND TOPICS

Keynote: RESILIENT RESPONSE TO ADVERSITY (Teens and Adults)

Kwame uses the art of storytelling from his life to inspire his audience to overcome the adversity in life. Kwame urges his audience to understand that after stress comes success and from struggle comes strength. Kwame teaches his audience tools to help manage change and uncertainty. Kwame has learned this through the course of his life, as he overcame the negative environment he lived in. He overcame the stereotypes placed on him, countless situations in which he could have easily lost his life or been incarcerated. Kwame believes that perspective is everything and having the right mindset can change your inner and outer world. Kwame urges his audiences to not only find their passion but to also place themselves in the right environment to truly grow to their full potential. Find out how Kwame turned his obstacles into triumphs and turned lead into gold.

Keynote/Workshop: DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION (Teens and Adults)

In this presentation Kwame will dive into personal stories involving inclusion and diversity. Kwame will breakdown macroaggressions using his personal experiences while also teaching his audience to be aware of macroaggressions and unconscious bias. Kwame opens up about the trauma inducing experiences he has had in his life due to race and discrimination and the negative impact it has had on his mental health. In this presentation Kwame thoroughly explains what an inclusive work space looks like, and he teaches his audience how to create a diverse environment in order to produce cultural competence and cultural understanding. Book Kwame now and find out how you can create a culture that permeates inclusion and diversity.

Keynote/Workshop: MINDSET HACK - GROWTH MINDSET (Teens and Adults)

Kwame will help his audience understand that the differences between successful people and unsuccessful people is simply the way they perceive the events of life. Kwame acknowledges that dealing with internal and external change can be difficult and hard to manage. Kwame will teach his audience how to embrace change and find comfort in the midst of chaos. In this presentation Kwame will breakdown the importance of having a growth mindset and how your life can be completely altered in a positive way if you choose to have a positive mindset. In order to overcome adversity you must have a growth mindset which will build the resilience you need to never give up when life becomes challenging. Kwame passionately believes that perception is everything in life. Book Kwame now and find out how his perception helped him at critical times in his life.

Keynote: TEACHING - THE UNCONVENTIONAL APPROACH TO THE UNCONVENTIONAL LEARNER (Adults/Educators)

There are many young learners who fall through the cracks of the education system, these learners are often the ones who can be deemed frustrating and challenging to work with for educators. Kwame was once this child and almost fell through the cracks however today Kwame has gone on to become an educator. He has worked in education for a school board for 8 years in Alberta and now teaches at a Federal Maximum Penitentiary in Ontario. Kwame compares and contrasts the duality of these experiences and provides educators with a new perspective on how to approach the unconventional learner.

More Information

REQUEST TO BOOK Kwame Osei

If comfortable, please use a personal email as many school boards have blocked external emails.

Carla Cuglietta

Global Leadership Speaker and Executive Director of YoungLeaders.World

Topics: College and Career Prep, Improving Social Climate and School Culture, Leadership Development, Social Impact, Women's Leadership
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Faith-Based, Middle/High School, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
AND TOPICS

Leadership is a Mindset - Keynote

Leadership changes everything. Literally.

It allows us to set a new direction for where we want to go and then helps us get there. For the past 22 years, Carla has been dedicated to working around the world to improve the lives of women and girls through leadership and education. Through this work, she has partnered with several grassroots leaders to create powerful change for themselves and their communities.

In this presentation, Carla will weave together emotional and inspirational stories from Canada, Mexico, India and Sierra Leone. Gain a clear understanding of the importance of a leadership mindset, how to set a vision for their lives and how to affect positive change in the world.

Leading Gen-Z - Keynote

After two decades of working with youth as an educator, and years of experience as the executive director of YoungLeaders.World, Carla shares some key insights on the differences we are seeing in Gen Z.   This session is for those who teach, manage, supervise, lead projects and engage youth.

The Future of Education – Keynote

What does it take to get young people ready for an unknown future? This is a question that weighs on students around the world.

Join Carla to explore her research findings from a 12 month, 12 country study to understand education and the changing nature of work. Her goal was to discover how to best prepare our youth for a fast-changing world. And, her findings? That four fundamental challenges will define the coming years of education. As well, that the future is bright, solutions are possible, and that we can quickly become poised to lead the future of education.

Our education systems are not broken, but they are ready for change.  Carla will share her insights into the need to shift education to have a leadership focus, make this session thought provoking, exciting, and actionable.

Vision and Values - Keynote

See it. Believe it. Work to make it so.

Carla will share powerful and inspirational stories from grassroots leaders from all over the world who understood how to make their visions come to life.  Over 22 years of global leadership learning packed into this awe inspiring keynote. Leadership lessons centred around vision setting, values and overcoming barriers will leave you inspired to take action to make your own vision come to life.

Vision Writing and Goal Setting - Workshop (Age Range - 15-25)

This workshop will walk you through a series of inspirational stories and thought provoking activities to help you set and realize your vision for your life. Then, find out how to turn that vision into an actionable plan.

Student Leadership Strategic Planning - Workshop

What does it feel like to walk through your hallways? What do you want it to feel like?  Carla will facilitate a planning session for your student leadership team (or staff) to help make a plan centered around building the culture and feel of your school.

Vision, Mission and Values - Workshop

In this session, Carla will help students or staff get clear on how to articulate the values of the school, then set value-aligned events to bring them to life. Paint the vision and understand how to share the deeper mission of your school or staff.

Leading Next-Gen - Workshop

After two decades of working with youth as an educator, and years of experience as the executive director of YoungLeaders.World, Carla shares some key insights on the differences we are seeing in Gen Z.  This session is for those who teach, manage, supervise, lead projects and engage youth. Carla will share research and 5 key findings that can help people who work with youth better understand how the differences in Gen-Z. This session is perfect for teachers or employees working with young people.

Communication - Workshop

Carla will provide a workshop full of great tools to help you navigate different types of conversations with your teams. Learn how to give feedback for performance and how to prepare for and have difficult conversations with confidence and clarity. This session will have lots of time for practising tools and scenarios in a safe space.

Testimonials

Speaker Testimonials

“Carla was amazing, organized, engaged, prepared and knowledgable. She was very accommodating of our needs and delivered. I left appreciating the importance of engaging youth and I was motivated to do more.”

Pauline Clark - Social Planner, The City of Airdrie, Airdrie, AB

“This talk was very inspiring! It made me feel like I can accomplish those goals just like I saw in the presentation!”

Markus - Student, Dan Knott Junior High School, Edmonton, AB
More Information

REQUEST TO BOOK Carla Cuglietta

If comfortable, please use a personal email as many school boards have blocked external emails.

Swish Goswami

CEO at Surf, Investor, Author, 4-Time TEDx Speaker and LinkedIn Top Voice

Topics: Entrepreneurship, Leadership Development, Mental Health, Motivation and Inspiration
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Elementary, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
AND TOPICS

You Inc

In this talk Swish will teach you how to cultivate your personal brand which you have whether you want it or not. By sharing the dos and don’ts behind engage and effective social storytelling on various platforms including his favourite platform LinkedIn, Swish will help you build a community while perfecting social storytelling, networking and selling yourself. This talk is ideal for those in Corporate, Universities/Colleges and Educators/Staff.

Starting a high growth company from scratch

Swish will candidly talk about the early days of building his company Surf and how they ended up raising over $5M from world class investors. Swish will share his entire playbook on how to start a business (everything from conceptualizing an idea, finding your co-founder, getting early customer feedback, landing your first customers, etc). This is a tactical talk for those that are interested in starting their first business. The talk also touches on aspects of Swish’s bestselling book “The Young Entrepreneur” which he published with Kogan Page.

Managing your mental health

Swish has dealt with anxiety for the last few years. Through his experience doing therapy as well as talking to others around him that suffer from anxiety, Swish will candidly talk about why everyone should be focused on their mental health, what people can do to manage it everyday and what limitations our minds put on us (ex. fear of not doing enough, fear of what others will think, etc). This is a talk that will directly aim to engage with audience members on an emotional level.
Testimonials

Speaker Testimonials

Swish is, without exaggeration, a one-in-a-million type of leader who clearly has a fantastic future…”

Forbes

“It wouldn’t surprise me if this kid one day becomes Prime Minister. Swish hunted me down and interviewed me on ideas around success. It was wonderful meeting one of our best and brightest up & coming young minds.”

Michael Hyatt, former Dragon on Dragons’ Den
More Information

REQUEST TO BOOK Swish Goswami

If comfortable, please use a personal email as many school boards have blocked external emails.

Cara Filler

Youth Motivational Speaker and Prevention Specialist

Topics: Goal Setting, Improving Social Climate and School Culture, Leadership Development, Resilience
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
Book Speaker Read Biography

WORKSHOPS
AND TOPICS

The Drive to Save Lives Tour

Through this eye-opening presentation on traffic safety and risk taking, and peer pressure, Cara inspires students to stand up for themselves and their friends, have a good time safely and make better life-changing decisions. With entertaining, relevant and powerful messages, Cara encourages students to speak up and own the Power of Choice. #ISpokeup This is Cara’s most requested presentation.

Driven: Rules of the Road to Success

Life is a journey, and Cara gives students a road map to navigate through it’s speed bumps and roadblocks. Students learn how to create their own GPS (Game Plan for Success!), develop an unstoppable drive forward and the secrets of getting in the express lane to success.

Let’s get R.E.A.L

In this fast-paced presentation, Cara gets students Really Excited About Leadership. Students walk away with real answers to real questions, like what defines a true leader and how to be one, what L.E.A.D.E.R.S.H.I.P. stands for and how to make a positive, lasting difference in their schools and communities.

Canada’s Next Top Role Model

Do you have what it takes to be Canada’s Next Top Role Model? During this workshop, students go through extensive training to learn the characteristics of role models and how to be one, how to make a big difference by doing little things, and how to “walk” the role model talk. Interactive fun role model runway show at the end will keep students laughing for days.

Testimonials

Speaker Testimonials

“There are very few speakers who have the ability to relate to a student audience as Cara does. Cara’s passion and commitment to her message is obvious, and her ability to connect with a student audience is outstanding!”

D. Conlon, Communications Director, Canadian Student Leadership Association

“Cara Filler holds the perfect recipe for addressing serious issues in a memorable, relevant way with today’s young people… empathy, levity, authority and an unconditional pure interest in the choices and safety of those in her audience.”

L. England, Student Council Advisor, Eisenhower High School, Yakima, WA, USA

“Cara reaches and touches the life of every person in the room. She is an energetic, engaging, honest, humourous, and motivating speaker and passionate about educating students to make better choices. Her 4 P’s can save your life.”

D. Deacon. Principal, Burlington High School, Boston, MA, USA

“Today I was one of the thousands of students you inspired. I hope I can embrace your story and lesson for the rest of my life, and I hope you can continue to teach the world and spread your positive message. To be honest, I didn’t think today’s assembly would be anything special, but you proved me wrong. It makes a difference. Thank you, it was humorous, emotional, touching and inspirational.”

Tyler S., High School Student
More Information

REQUEST TO BOOK Cara Filler

If comfortable, please use a personal email as many school boards have blocked external emails.

Alvin Law

Award Winning Professional Speaker, Author, Actor & Musician

Topics: Diversity and Inclusion, Leadership Development, Mental Health, Motivation and Inspiration, Resilience
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Elementary, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
AND TOPICS

Alvin's Laws of Life

Change The Label

There's No Such Word As Can't

These are “‘working” titles that can be changed to suit the event. Presentations are set to accommodate any age or grade level for youth presentations. Every presentation is customized to fit with the clients goals.

Testimonials

Speaker Testimonials

“Alvin is a genius. He is one of the most relatable speakers I have ever heard. When Alvin started to speak, he quickly became “one of us”. He made us laugh, he made us cry, he made us think. Most importantly Alvin helped us understand that we become what we pay attention to. I love this guy.”

Terry Small – The Brain Guy

“Not a huge fan of motivational speakers – I firmly believe that you can’t impose motivation on others, it has to come from inside them. Alvin owns his own motivation, and ignites it in others because he models the behaviour he speaks about. He lives it every day. He doesn’t tell people to change – they want to change after seeing him.”

Paul Bridle – CEO, Excellence Squared Ltd.

“Alvin attended our 11th Annual ‘Up With Life’ Day, intended to provide students with information, opportunities and experiences to reinforce the need for all of our students to make good choices and lead a healthy life. We were appreciative of his time and efforts in making this day a tremendous success.”

K. Strahley, Principal, Windsor Central District School, Windsor, NY, USA

“Fantastic!” “Outstanding!” “He’s the most inspiring speaker I’ve ever heard!” These are just a few of the comments that I have been hearing since you spoke, Alvin. Thank you so very much for coming to our school. Our kids really responded so well to your message. I am certain these students will never forget your visit.”

C. Grimstead – Forest Lawn Senior High School

“Alvin is a genius. He is one of the most relatable speakers I have ever heard. When Alvin started to speak, he quickly became “one of us”. He made us laugh, he made us cry, he made us think. Most importantly Alvin helped us understand that we become what we pay attention to. I love this guy.”

Terry Small – The Brain Guy
More Information

REQUEST TO BOOK Alvin Law

If comfortable, please use a personal email as many school boards have blocked external emails.

Chris Gray

Professional Speaker, Professional Wrestler, Professional Dad

Topics: Bullying, Goal Setting, Mental Health, Motivation and Inspiration, Resilience
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Elementary, Faith-Based, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
Book Speaker Read Biography

WORKSHOPS
AND TOPICS

Dare to Dream BIG

In this keynote presentation, Chris will tell stories of his humble beginnings in a very small rural town where he had the dream to one day be like his hero – Hulk Hogan. He will tell them a lesson he learned as a youth aspiring to achieve this dream … the saying “You Can Be Whatever You Want To Be” is a lie. Chris learned that the truth is “You can be whatever you want to be … if you’re willing to put in the work.”

Chris tells the story of his grueling initiation into professional wrestling and the day he finally realized his dream… the day he wrestled in the same ring as his childhood hero.

He goes on to explain that you don’t have to be in the “big time” to make a “big difference.” He tells stories of achieving his dreams of wrestling with his heroes as he tells stories of rubbing shoulders with Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, and Rey Mysterio.

Viewers take away the realization that the size of their dreams should not be limited to the size of their town or other people’s expectations.

Areas of Focus: Put in the work, Focus on the positive, Never give up, Positive motion creates positive emotion.

The Power of Perseverance

In this keynote presentation, Chris focuses on the power of persevering through hardship. He tells stories of his childhood, which was riddled with alcohol abuse and psychological disorders. Despite these hardships, Chris dared to dream big.

Chris was told by his high school guidance counselor that he shouldn’t pursue his big dream of being a professional wrestler because he was too small and it would be too hard to achieve this goal. Chris quickly learned that it would be very hard work, but that adults aren’t experts. Chris went on to achieve his goals despite the forces working against him.

Chris tells the dramatic story of the day he almost died in the ring and the day his dream job almost came to an end from the most unlikely of people.

Viewers take away the realization that their circumstances don’t have to dictate their actions. We all have the power to persevere if we put enough passion and drive into achieving our dreams.

Areas of focus: Overcoming obstacles, Attitude is everything, Positive motion creates positive emotion, Avoiding the victim mentality.

The Power of Influence

In this keynote presentation, Chris talks about the cycle of influence. Whether we are influenced by positive or negative forces, we can choose to continue that cycle or change it.

Chris tells stories of the negative influences on his life at a very young age and a chance meeting in the 9th grade that changed the trajectory of his life forever.

He tells engaging tales from his wrestling career that have influenced his life as a father and a man. Chris tells personal stories of special connections he’s made with his wrestling fans and his decision to be a positive influence in his community through his charity campaign – “Giv’er for Charity.”

Viewers take away the realization that they all have the power to influence those around them. It’s up to them whether they want to be a positive or negative influence in the world. Chris encourages all youth to choose the power of positive influence.

Areas of focus: Focus on the positive, Finding your passion, Choose your friends wisely, Power of a positive mindset.

Be Different: Turning Your Perceived Weakness into your SuperPower

In this keynote presentation, Chris encourages youth to not only accept their unique differences, but to embrace them and use them for good.

Since a very young age, Chris knew he was different because of his unique goals and dreams. And since a young age, he was always encouraged to change his dreams and goals because he was too small, too skinny, and very different looking compared to the professional wrestlers Chris dreamed of being like. Despite his dreams of a career that required him to take center stage… later in life, Chris learned he was actually an introvert. With this knowledge, he learned how to become a true leader based on the unique skills he developed as an introvert in an entertainment world full of extroverts.

Chris focuses on teaching youth lessons about overcoming their fears, branching out, and getting involved. He teaches kids that the saying “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” is true… and that he knows this because he almost died in the wrestling ring! He tells the intense and engaging tale of the day he almost died in the ring, and how that experience led to him learning how to overcome his fears, embrace his unique character traits (which he previously perceived as weaknesses), and be a positive force in his community through his charity work.

Viewers take away the realization that they are a special & unique person of value. We all have different gifts, so we all have different ways of telling the world who we are. Viewers will learn how to embrace these gifts and share them with the world to help make this world a better place.

Areas of Focus:

– Equality & Equity

– Inclusion

– Embracing Our Differences

– Overcoming Fears

Ideal for:

– Junior High & Secondary Assemblies

– At-risk students

​- Anti-Bullying

​- Mental Health Awareness

– Student Conferences

Power of Positivity - Corporate

In this keynote presentation, Chris tells stories about the power of positivity, and how a positive mindset can help with breakthrough on both a personal level, and team-level.

A negative attitude and mentality can quickly spread through a workplace without proper care and attention. Chris uses the power of storytelling to teach lessons on how to both maintain and create a positive mindset within the workplace.

Viewers will take away that we all have the power to be a positive influence on those around us, if we simply make that decision. Viewers will feel inspired and motivated to spread positivity in their workplace.

Dare to Dream BIG Workshop

This workshop expands on lessons and take-aways from Chris’s “Dare to Dream BIG” keynote and narrows in on a concept many people need help with… goal setting.

Areas of Focus:

– Overcoming fear

– finding your passion

​- accountability partners

Ideal for:

– Leadership groups

– student council / clubs

– at-risk students

– students lacking direction

– students about to graduate

Power of Perseverance Workshop

This workshop expands on lessons and take-aways from Chris’s “Power of Perseverance” keynote and narrows in on overcoming hardship through positivity.

Areas of Focus:

– Goal Setting

– Overcoming Fears

​- Accountability Partners

Ideal for:

– Leadership groups

– sports teams / banquets

– student council

– at-risk students

Power of influence Workshop

This workshop expands on lessons and take-aways from Chris’s “Power of Influence” keynote and narrows in on finding your passion to help you choose positivity over negativity.

Areas of Focus:

– You become who you surround yourself with

– avoiding the victim mentality

– the power of choice

Ideal for:

– at-risk youth

– youth in need of direction

​- leadership groups / clubs

Be Different Workshop

This workshop expands on lessons and take-aways from Chris’ “Be Different” keynote and narrows in on how to find our unique and special character traits to use as our superpower to help the world.

Areas of Focus:

– Rethinking Leadership Strategies

– Overcoming Fears

​- Accountability Partners

​- Self-Care

Ideal for:

– Leadership groups

– student council

– at-risk students

Testimonials

Speaker Testimonials

“Chris has been the favourite keynote speaker at our Grade 9 Boys Conference for several years. He quickly captivates his audience with the stories and experiences he shares. Throughout his presentation, Chris encourages students to set goals, follow their dreams, and persevere when life throws curve balls. His humour, passion, and enthusiasm enable him to easily connect to the students he’s working with. We look forward to having Chris back again next year!”

Meg Mattingley, Teacher, East Elgin Secondary School

“Chris is a dynamic and energetic speaker who connects with his audience through personal storytelling. His message of ‘dream big’ and ‘put in the work’ and ‘don’t be afraid to try something new’ was perfect for our students!”

Laurie Langford, ​Teacher, Strathroy District Collegiate Institute

“Chris’s message was excellent and the students loved him! He engaged everyone with humour and his amazing storytelling skills. I highly recommend him for any school community.”

Esther Wendel-Caraher, Principal, Sparta Public School

“Chris was one of the most impactful speakers I’ve heard! His ability to quickly connect with the students, hold their attention, and keep them engaged for the entire hour was most impressive. His message of going for a goal, working hard to get it, and helping others along the way is one our students will not forget! Chris is a ‘must-see’ for any student, but made a particularly strong impression on our young men.”

Jennifer Woodburn, Teacher, Saint André Bessette Catholic High School
More Information

REQUEST TO BOOK Chris Gray

If comfortable, please use a personal email as many school boards have blocked external emails.

Andy Thibodeau

IMPACT Presentations - School Spirit, Leadership Training, Encouragement

Topics: College and Career Prep, Improving Social Climate and School Culture, Leadership Development, Motivation and Inspiration, School Spirit and Involvement, Team-Building
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Elementary, Faith-Based, Middle/High School, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
AND TOPICS

My assemblies are flexible from 30 to 90 minutes. Energizers and interactive games are part of ALL programs! I will get my audience standing every 20 minutes to keep up the energy and interaction!

The most unique quality of my presentations is that your school or organization’s events, activities, and accomplishments are incorporated into the presentation. I will promote upcoming activities while offering recognition and praise for past events. Money spent on my programs can be considered an investment in more successful future activities! Plus, all your leadership groups and their advisors will appreciate a speaker that mentions their accomplishments!

“Get Your Hand UP!” – SCHOOL ASSEMBLY for Grades 6 to 12.

On the first day of high school, I was 6 foot and 115 pounds. My #1 enemy … the wind! I tried out for the Junior football team and on the second day of school I experienced the failure of being cut. This hilarious and inspiring program encourages your students to have an attitude of “Pick Me, Pick Me”! Fight the fear of failure and be the student that “Gets Your Hand UP” to answer questions, ask questions, and volunteer. School is about balancing learning and having fun!

Work ethic, School Spirit, Self-Confidence, Resiliency, and Volunteerism are the key themes of this assembly.

My assemblies are flexible from 30 to 90 minutes. Energizers and interactive games are part of ALL programs! I will get my audience standing every 20 minutes to keep up the energy and interaction!

“Share your Care” – SCHOOL ASSEMBLY for grades 1 to 12.

What was my criteria to ask Leica to dance at my first dance in grade 7? That she was hot? That she was cool? No! Hot and cool are temperatures and not characteristics. My criteria was, “will she say no … nicely?!” Her kindness and character were why I asked her to dance! What would she say? This moving and comedic story about self-confidence and compassion will have everyone in your audience relating to my journey from shy grade 6 to high school grad. My message: Care about yourself, your friends, family, school, and community! My top 3 examples of care: Show up. Participate. Listen. A special version is available for grades 1 to 5.

Themes of Community Service, Inclusion, Kindness, School Spirit, Self-Confidence, Bullying Awareness are woven into the program.

My assemblies are flexible from 30 to 90 minutes. Energizers and interactive games are part of ALL programs! I will get my audience standing every 20 minutes to keep up the energy and interaction!

“Get Your Hand UP GRADS!” – GRADE 12 KEYNOTE & GRAD RETREAT

A special grade 12-focused version of my “Get Your Hand UP’ assembly, focusing on enjoying the final year of school, being an example of leadership for the younger grades, and successfully preparing for life after high school. Perfect for grad retreats and second semester visits. Adjustable from 45 minutes to a half day or full day retreat.

My assemblies are flexible from 30 to 90 minutes. Energizers and interactive games are part of ALL programs! I will get my audience standing every 20 minutes to keep up the energy and interaction!

“Initiate Inclusion by Invitation” – Andy’s Three “I’s” of Building Community. SCHOOL ASSEMBLY or LEADERSHIP KEYNOTE for grades 7 to 12.

Inclusion is “Seeing differences, without seeing the difference.”

Inclusion is at the forefront of all schools’ goals. For 10 months in 2018-19, my family had three young women from Congo live with us until their housing situation was settled. The ongoing experience of being “Uncle Andrew” to new Canadians from Africa is hilarious, powerful, and insightful.  When you initiate inclusion by invitation, my family’s experience shows that the rewards go both ways – blessing the giver and receiver! From this experience, my work at the King’s College Peace Camp, and working for 9 months in 2020 at Costco, I offer perspective to the following challenges: How can you initiate inclusion? What limits our courage to invite? How can one maintain enthusiasm for invitation and leadership when negative experiences and rejection challenge us in our schools and community? Include, invite, and lead by initiating!

Keynote themes: Inclusion, Appreciation of Differences, Self-confidence, Communication Skills, Team Building, Community Service.

My assemblies are flexible from 30 to 90 minutes. Energizers and interactive games are part of ALL programs! I will get my audience standing every 20 minutes to keep up the energy and interaction!

"The Look" Bounces off me! Dealing Positively with Negativity – STUDENT LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE Keynote for grades 6-12.

We have all seen it when we are in a leadership role … someone gives us the “look” of disapproval and we feel our enthusiasm for leadership fade a little. A hilarious and life-changing keynote where I give your leaders effective strategies on dealing with negativity while inspiring care.  As a leader in my teens, when I learned to not let the negative judgement of others change ME, that CHANGED ME! I remind leaders that, “Care is contagious, but as a leader, it has to start with ME!”  From my own school and community leadership experiences, I offer realistic, easy-to-implement insights that will motivate you and your team!

This has been my leadership conference keynote shared hundreds of times at regional, provincial, and state events across the continent.

My assemblies are flexible from 30 to 90 minutes. Energizers and interactive games are part of ALL programs! I will get my audience standing every 20 minutes to keep up the energy and interaction!

“Making Care Contagious!” – Andy’s Habits of Successful Student Leaders.

Care is Contagious, but as a LEADER, it must start with ME! Lessons learned from being a grade 8 student council VP, a high school student president, and the orientation coordinator of my university. A powerful student leadership program that can run from 1 to 3 hours on improving communication and event marketing, handling rejection and negativity, being an example of good decisions and promoting inclusion!

My workshops are flexible from 30 to 120 minutes. ALL workshops are for grades 6 to 12. Programs are available for school or conference settings. All programs have versions designed for school staff!

“Can I Count on You?”  – Improving Your Reliability to Lead Yourself and Others.

Execution of ideas is the number one challenge for young people in organizing themselves and others. This session will immediately improve the ability of your team to work together and improve their organization skills. For students and school staff!  As a retreat, it can be a Co-Op/Workplace training program in Organization, Leadership and Time Management. A great PD program for school staff!

My workshops are flexible from 30 to 120 minutes. ALL workshops are for grades 6 to 12. Programs are available for school or conference settings. All programs have versions designed for school staff!

“Initiate Inclusion by Invitation” – Andy’s Three “I’s” of Building Community.

A leadership workshop version of my program on Inclusion. Leaders are the first “I” – Initiate. Leaders start the conversation, extend invitation, learn about barriers to inclusion, and work with others to find solutions!

My workshops are flexible from 30 to 120 minutes. ALL workshops are for grades 6 to 12. Programs are available for school or conference settings. All programs have versions designed for school staff!

“Get Your Hand Up”, “Can I Count On You? Improving Your Reliability” and “Initiating Inclusion by Invitation” Presentations. SHSM/Co-Op/Workplace Training Workshops Versions

Looking for a high-energy, interactive, and educational method for your SHSM/Co-Op students to get their hours and experience in workplace skills and leadership training? I have developed workplace skills versions of three of my presentations. Presentations length can be from one hour to a full day. Any size of audience. 

Complements your Workplace training needs in teaching your students Organization, Leadership and Time Management skills. 

It includes insights from my 9 months at Costco in 2020! I was a 50-year-old “retail rookie” being trained by people half my age! You learn a lot about your work ethic packing groceries during the tense times of April 2020 or pushing shopping carts in 35-degree Celsius heat!  

My workshops are flexible from 30 to 120 minutes. ALL workshops are for grades 6 to 12. Programs are available for school or conference settings. All programs have versions designed for school staff!

“The Impact of Educators” – An Appreciation Keynote or Workshop For ALL School Staff.

My 30 to 60-minute program to inspire and entertain your school’s staff at a PD session or educator conference. In the fall of grade 9, I received a letter inviting me to attend a “potential test” for track and field. That letter from Coach and Teacher Don Young changed my life!

When booking Andy for your school, consider organizing an after-school staff meeting so he can share this powerful program. Its length is flexible to your needs, from 20 minutes to 1 hour.

Also available as a one to two-hour Professional Development session!

“The IMPACT of the Advisor” – Two Options for Advisors and Leadership Teachers

Both “Making Care Contagious” and “Can I Count on You?” are available as adult advisor workshops.  Each of these presentations empowers adult leaders to support their students when they return to school.  Perfect for staff only workshops at leadership conferences.

In “Making Care Contagious”, Andy shares numerous activities and events that schools can run that support the 5 Habits.  “Can I Count on You?” will give adult advisors the tools to keep their team organized.  In addition, both programs are an empowering reminder to adult advisors about the difference they make inspiring youth leaders.  These workshops can each run from 30 to 120 minutes.

Testimonials

Speaker Testimonials

“I just finished watching your presentation. I’m literally typing this on my phone through the tears that are flowing freely down my cheeks. You got me, friend. I’m so very excited for our delegates to become part of your powerful and important message. Thank you for caring so much and for sharing your care with the Ohio Association of Student Leaders.”

Ohio Association of Student Leaders, 2020 Summer Camp

“You’re already getting rave reviews, bringing humour and joy to our kids during a trying time! THANK YOU! Eva (our littlest) is in grade one and she thinks you’re pretty darn funny!”

Maggie Savage, Parent Council, Westmount Elementary, Peterborough ON

“Thank you! You have made an impact among our students. Both presentations were well received. We had done a small debrief near the end of the day and you had a major impact. Students loved you suggesting to turn on their cameras and doing the energizers. It got them out of their chairs. Your messages transcend their stay at our college and will follow them for years to come.”

Bill Mahon, Student Activities Advisor, John Abbott College, Montreal

“Everyone loved the strong story at the end about the value of education and the far-reaching impact it has on individuals (and our society)! You are most definitely a passionate promoter of public education! It was a very energized presentation”

Jeff Pratt, CPA, CMA, Associate Director of Education & Treasurer, Thames Valley District School Board

“I just finished watching your presentation. I’m literally typing this on my phone through the tears that are flowing freely down my cheeks. You got me, friend. I’m so very excited for our delegates to become part of your powerful and important message. Thank you for caring so much and for sharing your care with the Ohio Association of Student Leaders.”

Ohio Association of Student Leaders, 2020 Summer Camp
More Information

REQUEST TO BOOK Andy Thibodeau

If comfortable, please use a personal email as many school boards have blocked external emails.