Audience: Educators/Staff

Scott Hammell

Speaker, Magician, Stunt Artist, Storyteller

Topics: College and Career Prep, Goal Setting, Leadership Development, Motivation and Inspiration, Resilience, Stress and Anxiety Management
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
AND TOPICS

Perspective

Magic is all about perspective. The same thing, seen from different angles can appear wildly different. Scott pulls back the curtain and examines how magicians use a combination of techniques to achieve the desired outcome. These techniques have been monumental in Scott’s life for his art, as well as understanding and gaining clarity on challenging issues. Subtle perspective shifts can lead to significant improvements.

Effective Goal Setting Technique

Scott has built a wonderful life for himself by pursuing his dreams. He created opportunities for himself when he felt forward progress wasn’t fast enough. Some people look at Scott’s Guinness World Records as unique accomplishments. While Scott is very proud of these achievements, he views himself as an ordinary person who has figured out how to effectively set and accomplish goals!

Understanding Fear

Sometimes we push ourselves outside of our comfort zones, and sometimes we are pushed by factors external to us. In order to discover our true capabilities it is critical we move outside of our comfort zone.

Scott knows the benefits of pushing his boundaries all too well. He would not be a Guinness World Record holder today if he had not stepped outside of his comfort zone to attempt a gravity-defying stunt. Instead of being limited by his fear of heights, Scott faced the fear, embraced it, and ultimately overcame it.

Leadership

Scott knows what it takes to be a leader. He’s built, inspired and motivated his teams to achieve world-class results. Although his stunt experiences are unique, the wisdom he has gained and is able to convey is timeless and relatable. His leadership messages are about ideals such as protecting your crew, leading from behind, highlighting your team’s skill sets, delegation of tasks and successfully managing team members who are not contributing. Scott has toured the world, presenting at top leadership conferences and he is in demand for repeat performances.

Resilience

Sometimes our worst experiences can end up making us stronger. Scott sees opportunity in adversity and offers strategies to control perspective. We can’t control adversity, but we can control our perspective. Like most things in life, the more we practice resilience, the more naturally it comes. Scott’s passion-based approach to resilience offers a clear starting point as well as room to build solid foundations so that later work feels effortless.

Career Development

When you love doing something, it feels as natural as breathing. “Getting Paid to Breathe” is about finding your passion and making it happen.  Scott empowers his audience to examine their career development in the context of career satisfaction.

The Stuntman's Guide to Staying Calm

Scott Hammell has made a career by putting himself into stressful situations. No, I don’t just mean public speaking. Scott has tackled stunts in the air, on land and underwater. These experiences, combined with over 20 years as a hypnotist have lead to some interesting insights and techniques for staying calm during stressful situations. You don’t need to be attempting stunts to find the value in these simple practices.

The speech is designed to bring audiences into the mind of Scott as he’s about to perform one of his most dangerous stunts. His techniques for staying calm are broken down and elaborated upon. Scott also teaches the secrets to develop a super power.

The podcast is a free resource of relaxation recordings. These recordings are designed to help you sleep better, improve your memory, increase your focus and reduce your overall stress levels.

Additional Magic and Juggling Workshops

Scott has been teaching magic and juggling for over 20 years. He is able to provide participants with all the necessary tools to learn magic and or juggling. The tricks taught in these workshops can have specific tie-ins to his speaking topics. If you’re looking for a complimentary program that is fun and hands-on, ta-da!!!!

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Orlando Bowen

Founder of One Voice One Team, Game Changer and Speaker

Topics: Bullying, Improving Social Climate and School Culture, Leadership Development, Resilience, Team-Building
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
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Resilience

Making Sweet Lemonade of Life’s Lemons and Sharing it with Those Around You

Anti-bullying

One Voice One Team – There is No ‘Us and Them’… There’s Only ‘US’

Leadership

Leading by Example, We ALL Have Stories and Gifts to Give

High Performance

Creating High Performance Teams where Excellence is the Standard

Set the Tone

Creating a Climate and Culture of Excellence for Every Student

Resilience

Creating and Fostering Excellence in Light of Adversity… Bring it ON!!

Testimonials

Speaker Testimonials

“Orlando is very engaging. The students instantly connect with him. He has led an amazing life but his message is about encouraging students to do the same. The students feel like he is talking directly to them even though there are thousands of people in the room.”

R. Jones, Coordinator, Alberta Student Leadership Conference 2018

“Honestly, it was an honour to have you at our school today, you not only touched my heart but the hearts of all the students you talked to today. You make me want to be the best person I can, and from this day, I will. Thank you!”

Brittney, Grade 10 Clarke Road S.S. (London, ON)

“Orlando Bowen is the most powerful and engaging speaker I have ever had the pleasure of hearing. His vision for the world left me in awe. He connected with both the boys and girls in the audience, which is rare for a speaker.”

Erin, 4H Canada

“Orlando speaks from the heart with sincerity, enthusiasm, and most importantly, he speaks from experience. His biggest message is about forgiveness. Having lived through unspeakable, life-changing events, Orlando can teach students about forgiveness, because he has managed to unconditionally forgive all those who have wronged him.”

A. Cox-Twardowski, Teacher, Beaconsfield H.S., Montreal, QC
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Cheryl Pounder

Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist, Speaker and Broadcaster

Topics: Goal Setting, Leadership Development, Mental Health, Resilience, Women's Leadership
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
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Pursuit of Excellence: “Growing for Gold” – Self-Awareness, Leadership and Teamwork

How does one grow and get gold, no matter their situation? Cheryl’s enlightening keynote is interactive, engaging and entertaining. She discusses the importance of building a vision while focusing on participation vs engagement and the importance of seizing every opportunity. Cheryl also focuses on the character dimensions of leadership, the importance of collaboration and how one individual can affect and impact the culture and mission of a group. By sharing information, understanding the importance of inclusivity and recognizing value, we build culture and efficiency. Growing for Gold involves trusting the process, tough conversations and clarity of the common goal. Thinking differently is essential to excellence.

Pursuit of Excellence: “Breaking the Barriers” – The Courage to Overcome Adversity

How do you take what cards life has dealt you and turn them into a win? Cheryl discusses adversity as it applied to her journey and how being ‘abnormal’ and taking chances helped her succeed in a world where many believed she couldn’t.Finding strength in vulnerability and having the courage to embrace change, leads to incredible opportunities. Cheryl takes you on a journey, discussing how she developed resiliency and how she has overcome her personal fear of failure in order to break barriers and prove to herself and others that she has what it takes to win.

Pursuit of Excellence: “End the Stigma” – Understanding Mental Health

Can you recognize the signs of mental illness? Are you doing what you need to do to take care of your own mental wellness? Cheryl talks about the pressures of leadership, being in the public eye and the importance of taking care of your own mental wellness in order to reach your goals and lead a fulfilling life. She also talks about the importance of encouraging your team and those around you to put mental wellness on their list of personal goals.

Pursuit of Excellence: “Women in Leadership” – The importance of finding your voice, rising up and collaborating

As a professional hockey player and sports broadcaster, Cheryl Pounder will share her journey as a female in a male-dominated community. She discusses the courage needed to find your voice and how to find the strength to ‘stand on top of your story’. She will reinforce the importance of joining the conversation and how women can rise up to any challenge in any circumstance. She encourages the audience to talk about their own personal barriers while recognizing their role within a community. Cheryl also talks about the need for collaboration as women in leadership and how teamwork really does make the dream work.

Testimonials

Speaker Testimonials

“Cheryl was simply amazing. She connected with the audience by finding common threads and working those in to her talk. Her message was very applicable to our audience and people were hanging on to her every word. I’m still running in to people who were at the event and singing her praises.”

Event Coordinator, Clarington Sports Hall of Fame, Bowmanville, ON

“Cheryl was amazing! She connected with the guests, had her photo taken, let guests hold her medals, and her presentation was perfect. She integrated her story with our work and at the end, she had a standing ovation. Cheryl is a lovely person and an outstanding presenter. Her love for presenting and her passion for her story and her caring for others comes through loud and clear.”

Halton Healthcare Services, Oakville, ON
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Mark Black

Resilience Expert and the Only Man in History to Run a Marathon Using Someone Else's Heart and Lungs

Topics: Bullying, Leadership Development, Mental Health, Motivation and Inspiration, Resilience
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Faith-Based, French Speaking, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
AND TOPICS

Do Tough Stuff

Format: Assembly Program or Workshop

Duration: 50-65 mins

Suitable for: Grades 7-12

We live in a world where convenience and ease are valued more highly than determination and grit. When students believe that better means easier they risk missing out on some of the best parts of life.

In this thought-provoking and inspiring program; Mark shares how the best things in his life came out of what initially seemed like terrible situations. Students learn practical strategies for reframing their challenges and embracing their flaws to become the best version of themselves.

Key Take-Aways:

  • Your results are created by your decisions. If you don’t like your results; change your decisions.
  • The best way to deal with your problems is to face them head-on.
  • It is great to dream and to have a positive attitude, but unless you DO something, nothing will change.
  • The most successful people are also the most determined: If you never quit, you succeed, or you learn.

Hold On

Duration: 50-65 mins

Suitable for: Grades 9-12 & University/College audiences

Teens are more anxious and stressed than ever before. 34% of high school students now indicate a moderate to serious level of psychological distress. Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death in people aged 15-24, it doesn’t have to be.

Even while working as a “motivational speaker” Mark struggled with an anxiety disorder and depressive episodes for years. He has experienced how it feels, and he wants to help. Mark is not a therapist or psychiatrist. He is just someone who has been there and found a way out.

In this powerful presentation, Mark incorporates humour and humility to open an authentic and encouraging dialogue and provide a safe space for students dealing with depression and other mental health struggles. Students will learn practical strategies to cope and learn it is okay to ask for help.

Key Take-Aways:

  • Permission to talk: students will be encouraged to talk to people they trust about how they feel
  • Acceptance: teens need to feel accepted. Mark helps students accept themselves for who they are
  • How to get help: Posting the crisis / suicide hotline number is not enough.
  • Mark provides students with a number of resources and ways to get help after the presentation.

Level Up Your Life

Teens are at a critical time in their personal development. In “Level Up” Mark will use his life story of battling a life-threatening disease, surviving a Heart & Double-Lung Transplant, and running 4 marathons to help your students see new possibilities for themselves.

Key Take-Aways:

  • Discover what is holding you back from being your best
  • Stretch your vision of what is possible
  • Learn how to cultivate REAL motivation that lasts
  • Understand what drives you
  • If you need to stretch the vision of your organization and help your people set bigger goals, this is the program for you.

The Resilience Roadmap

You deal with adversity on a daily basis. In addition to the typical challenges you have always had to face, now there is covid-19 and all it brings. When faced with any adversity, people generally have two reactions: fight or flight. They either summon their resources and resolve, they retreat or sink into despair. Which will you be?

To succeed in the face of adversity, one tool is essential to have in your toolbox; resilience.  In The Resilience RoadmapTM Mark provides a framework for success despite the odds and provides a powerful dose of inspiration and excuse-eliminating motivation, in the process.

Using his life story of battling a life-threatening disease, surviving a Heart & Double-Lung Transplant, and recovering to run 4 marathons Mark will show you that you are limited more by perceptions than circumstances. But it goes far beyond emotions or attitude.

In this powerful and practical program, you will acquire skills you can implement immediately to improve your bottom line.

Key Take-Aways:

  • Re-frame challenges to create powerful opportunities for innovation and growth
  • Eliminate distractions and excuses that impede your success
  • Where to put your time and energy to impact the metrics that matter
  • Create milestones and goals that actually drive results
  • Develop an implementable action plan
  •  This program will not only provide your conference with a powerful experience ideal for beginning or ending your event with impact, attendees will leave with practical takeaways they can implement in their business the following day.

Live Today

Do your people struggle with stress, frustration, or worry? Have they lost some of the joy and passion for what they do amid all of the challenges and stresses they face? If so, Live Today is the perfect program to remind them how much their work matters and re-ignite their passion for doing it.

Live TodayTM is an inspiring and powerful way to open or close your conference with a message that will leave people inspired and rejuvenated. Through his powerful personal story, Mark will show your audience how to accept the things they cannot change, and focus their most precious resources – time and energy – on the things that matter.

  • Accept the things they cannot change, in order to
  • focus on what they can control
  • Re-discover the pride and passion they have for their work
  • Be inspired and motivated to be their best for themselves and their patients
  • Live Today provides your people with a fresh perspective on challenges and perceived problems and leaves them inspired and empowered to be their best.

Through Your Patients' Eyes

You care about your patients. You want to give them the best care possible. You can’t be expected to do that unless you know what really matters to them.

In this engaging presentation, Mark will the incredible impact made on him by the medical professionals who he lived with and cared for him as he faced the prospect of death. You’ll be inspired and affirmed in the value of your work. More than that, you’ll learn practical strategies to help you be a better professional, like:

  • The Do’s and Don’ts to ensure your patients feel cared for
  • The 3 things you can do to connect with your patients immediately
  • How to turn a patient into your ally
  • How to turn your workday into an energizing, rewarding and
  • fulfilling experience

Mark has worked with thousands of medical professionals, and spoken at dozens of conferences, including

  • Canadian Association of Critical Care Nurses
  • National Emergency Nurses Association
  • Canadian Association of Health Care Auxiliaries
  • National Pulmonary Hypertension Association

This program is perfect for the opening or closing keynote for your healthcare conference. It is also available as a 90 min breakout.

Testimonials

Speaker Testimonials

“It is rare to find a speaker who is able to both connect with teens AND provide a meaningful message that can immediately help them in their lives. Mark is one of those speakers. If you have the opportunity to bring him to your school, do it. We booked Mark for three virtual programs for our students and parents during the pandemic. I was impressed with how he effortlessly mixed humour with his remarkable experience, to make genuine connections with the audience even through a screen. Using various engagement strategies from hand raising to Q & A, he kept students engaged throughout. Mark’s program was exactly what we needed. The resilience strategies he teaches give students the tools to be better cope with the multitude of challenges they face, and the unforgettable story he shares inspires us to take action. After hearing Mark, students realize their capacity to thrive despite their circumstances and are empowered to face whatever life throws at them.”

“Recently our students had the privilege of hearing speaker Mark Black. Mark was chosen by our Students’ Council after they heard him speak at the Ontario Student Leadership Conference in Niagara Falls. Right from the start of Mark’s presentation, students were engaged and remained engaged throughout the entire hour. Mark did a great job of combining humour and anecdotes relevant to our teenage students to hook them up, and to prepare them to hear his practical and powerful message of leading a life that is positive and purposeful. As a Guidance Counsellor and Students’ Council Advisor, I would highly recommend Mark for any speaking engagement. Using his own personal life experience, Mark is able to offer students practical ways to feel more optimistic, reduce anxiety and worry, and start a change process to reach their goals.”

Adam Rowden, Student Council Advisor, Wellington Heights Secondary School

“The saying ‘speak from your heart’ certainly suits Mark Black’s presentation! His honest, down to earth conversation with our students made a huge impact! We tied his presentation to our school Career Fair and his words hit home. It is rare to see a standing ovation in a high school, but there was no question: he deserved it!”

Sheila Chad, Principal, E.D. Feehan Catholic High School

“It is not easy to gain the attention of middle schoolers. He engaged our 7-12 audience with skill. His content was everything that we try to deliver in our grade 9-12 Healthy and Active Living curriculum. It’s inspiring to hear a “stranger” make these connections with the students: resilience, consent, respect and the Golden Rule, etc. We look forward to linking his talk back to our themes in the curriculum in the coming months.”

D. Kealey, Principal, St. Peter High School, Orleans, ON

“It is rare to find a speaker who is able to both connect with teens AND provide a meaningful message that can immediately help them in their lives. Mark is one of those speakers. If you have the opportunity to bring him to your school, do it. We booked Mark for three virtual programs for our students and parents during the pandemic. I was impressed with how he effortlessly mixed humour with his remarkable experience, to make genuine connections with the audience even through a screen. Using various engagement strategies from hand raising to Q & A, he kept students engaged throughout. Mark’s program was exactly what we needed. The resilience strategies he teaches give students the tools to be better cope with the multitude of challenges they face, and the unforgettable story he shares inspires us to take action. After hearing Mark, students realize their capacity to thrive despite their circumstances and are empowered to face whatever life throws at them.”

More Information

REQUEST TO BOOK Mark Black

Jeff A.D. Martin

Youth Communication Specialist and Diversity & Inclusion Coach

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

I Am Worth It, I Am Enough! (Student Session)

Some studies show that 1 in 5 students suffer from depression and/or anxiety. One of Jeff’s favorite keynote topics is about finding your self-worth and believing in who you are. Jeff helps to combat depression and anxiety by teaching on the positive effects of self affirmations.

Learning objectives:

– To understand where self doubt comes from and ways to overcome it
– To understand your full worth and value within the world
– The importance of giving to others and how this can reflect on your own self worth
– To create positive connections that will bring on a sense of value to everyone around you
– To see the value you already have in the world.

*Can be modified towards the students age of understanding, ranging from Grade 3 to College/University level.

Diversity & Inclusion (Student Session)

Many people do not recognize that although we are all different in gender, skin complexion, religion etc, as human beings, the only difference between any one of us, on a microscopic level is 0.01%. This means we are more alike than not. The sad part is people are being bullied, discriminated against and even killed over the difference of 0.01%. Jeff focuses in on the power of inclusion and embracing diversity.

*Can be modified towards the students age of understanding, ranging from Grade 3 to College/University level.

Your Why! (Educator Session)

For the many teachers who put their heart and soul into their students, as time goes on, you can sometimes experience fatigue and burn out. Jeff reminds you of why you got into the profession of teaching to begin with. Your job is greater than teaching 1+1, your job is shaping the future leaders of tomorrow. Jeff wants to remind you about your importance and of the fact that you could be moulding the next Prime Minister of Canada.

Do I matter to you? (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion – Teachers session)

In this special presentation, Jeff digs into the important topic of biases, where we learn them and how they effect the way we see and treat each other. He also discusses the term ‘Privilege’ and how we can actually use or own identified privileges to help others. Jeff shares useful tools and resources that assist the audience in discovering their own biases and also effective ways to speak to children about discrimination without shying away from the topic. Jeff uses Canadian examples in his presentation and reminds us that its not about blaming others for the past, its about taking both self and a collective responsibility to make change.

How do I speak to my child about race? (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion – Parent session)

In this special presentation, Jeff digs into the important topic of biases, where we learn them and how they effect the way we see and treat each other. He also discusses the term ‘Privilege’ and how we can actually use or own identified privileges to help others. Jeff shares useful tools and resources that assist the audience in discovering their own biases and also effective ways to speak to children about discrimination without shying away from the topic. Jeff uses Canadian examples in his presentation and reminds us that its not about blaming others for the past, its about taking both self and a collective responsibility to make change.

Do I matter to you? (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion – Corporate session)

In this special presentation, Jeff digs into the important topic of biases, where we learn them and how they effect the way we see and treat in the work environment. He shares the ways a corporation can win when fully adapting Inclusion to its core competencies. Jeff also shares useful tools and resources that assist the audience in discovering their own biases and also effective ways to speak on macroaggressions within the work environment. In this corporate presentation, Jeff reminds us that its not about blaming others for the past, its about taking both self and a collective responsibility to make positive and sustainable change to the work environment.

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Joel Hilchey

Entrepreneur & Advocate for Better Education

Topics: College and Career Prep, Health and Wellness, Improving Social Climate and School Culture, Mental Health
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
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Rehumanizing Education with Unforgettable Experiences - Educators/Education Associations

There was a time when the goal of education was to impart information. That time has passed. Information is now freely available, but information doesn’t change people. Curriculum? Subjects? Classrooms? All are necessary but not sufficient. School itself must be reinvented. Students need relevant skills and guidance. Teachers must become coaches and curators. Thankfully, these complex transformations can be guided by a simple focus: Experiences.

The idea of changing education seems daunting. But everyone already feels overworked, under-appreciated, and tapped-out, so what do we have to lose? We can steal the best practices, discard the irrelevant, and empower teachers to do the jobs they signed up for.

What if the pathway to reinventing education could actually be FUN?

Key Takeaways:

  • The characteristics of unforgettable experiences.
  • How to leverage experiences into transformational educational moments
  • How to save time by focusing on the moments that matter

The Best Career for You - Students

Society is full of bad ideas about careers that stress out students. By busting some myths about life after high school, students will find themselves feeling more free to explore and try new things. Joel’s keynote will help show students that there’s not a “best” career at all! By getting beyond the pressure and stress, students can discover a path that’s fulfilling for them!

Key take-aways:

  • You don’t have to have it all figured out by graduation!
  • The “University is best” mentality is outdated; every path has its benefits!
  • You don’t know what you like until you try it.

Wellness 101 - Students

These are wild times. Self-care is important, but it’s not enough. We need to change the way we approach wellness in schools. Joel’s keynote helps normalize the struggles we all face, and it gives students practical tools to support friends, family, and themselves through tough times. You’ll be surprised how fun a presentation about wellness can be!

Key take-aways:

  • Self-compassion for all our unique struggles
  • Two practical approaches to dealing with tough times
  • Conversation strategies to support students in need

Brainsprouting: How to Become Fearlessly Creative & Have Better Ideas More Often

Unlock your hidden creative talents, generate hundreds of innovative ideas, and learn facilitation techniques to maximize your team’s creativity.

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REQUEST TO BOOK Joel Hilchey

Heather Moyse

Founder of The Possibility Playground, Author, and 2x Olympic Champion

Topics: Entrepreneurship, Leadership Development, Motivation and Inspiration, Resilience, School Spirit and Involvement, Women's Leadership
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
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Unlikely, but Possible!

How is it that some talented and gifted people never live up to or learn to maximize their potential? Never feel  fulfilled? Never achieve more than what is expected of them? Heather Moyse knows. As a three-sport National  athlete, four-time Olympian, two-time Olympic gold medalist, and certified occupational therapist, Heather has  learned through her experiences in helping herself and others achieve at the highest levels that the qualities it  takes to be successful as an athlete are the same qualities it takes to be successful in any occupation or

industry – none of which have anything to do with physical strength or stamina. In this presentation, Heather  reveals the four essential elements needed to succeed – four critical elements required for her to reach the top  of the Olympic podium and anyone to overcome their obstacles and achieve at the highest level of  performance, success, and fulfillment.

When you develop a champion mindset, you will be unstoppable!

Learning Outcomes:

  • Four key elements necessary in maximizing your potential – achieving your highest level of  performance, fulfillment, and success.
  • How the power of perspective can inspire and empower you to discover that you are capable of much  more than you think.
  • How even the most unlikely goals can be possible if you break them down and push forward with no  regrets.
  • How one’s choices determine not only our level of fulfillment, but also the impact we have on those  around us.
  • The key to being a true leader.

Moderated Q&A

Testimonials

Speaker Testimonials

“I just wanted to tell you how much your message inspired me today. It is something I will continue to take with me from now on throughout life.”

Natalie_Penton, Grade 11, Newfoundland

“Rarely do I hear a speaker who connects as well to an audience as Heather does. I’ve seen her flourish in the world of speaking and help tens of thousands of people see their potential by sharing her unique perspectives.”

John C. Maxwell, Author & Int’ Leadership Expert

“You were so inspiring and really helped me put things in perspective. I am a grade 12 grad so it has been a challenge, but hearing motivation really helps bring some positivity! Thank you.”

Sarah Madeyski, Grade 12 Student, Calgary

“I just wanted to tell you how much your message inspired me today. It is something I will continue to take with me from now on throughout life.”

Natalie_Penton, Grade 11, Newfoundland

“Rarely do I hear a speaker who connects as well to an audience as Heather does. I’ve seen her flourish in the world of speaking and help tens of thousands of people see their potential by sharing her unique perspectives.”

John C. Maxwell, Author & Int’ Leadership Expert
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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
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Step Into Your Greatness

Let’s be totally transparent. Alvin has one program…period! It’s called “Step Into Your Greatness” and traces the remarkable story of being born without arms, homeless at five days of age, being written off by the medical community and turning “Tragedy Into Triumph”!

The program can be timed for 15 to 90 minutes. It is also adapted and personalized for every event to make his message seamlessly blend into the theme or objectives of a student leadership event or school assembly. It will deliver an impact that literally lasts a lifetime!

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
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Chris Gray

Speaker, Wrestler, Producer, Podcaster, Dad

Topics: Bullying, Goal Setting, Mental Health, Motivation and Inspiration, Resilience
Audiences: Corporate, Educators/Staff, Elementary, Faith-Based, Middle/High School, Parents, University/College
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WORKSHOPS
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Dare to Dream BIG

In this inspiring presentation, Chris shares stories from his humble beginnings in a small rural town, where he dreamed of one day stepping into the same wrestling ring as his childhood heroes. As a young dreamer, he believed the saying, “You can be whatever you want to be.” But through experience, he discovered a deeper truth: “You can be whatever you want to be—if you’re willing to put in the work.”

Chris recounts his challenging journey into the world of professional wrestling—the relentless training, the setbacks, and the perseverance it took to push through. Along the way, he learned powerful lessons about resilience, grit, and overcoming obstacles.

He also reminds audiences that success isn’t measured by fame or recognition. You don’t have to make it to the “big time” to make a big difference. True impact comes from setting a positive example and uplifting the people around you.

When Chris finally achieved his childhood dream of wrestling in the same ring as his heroes, he realized the incredible power of a positive mindset and unwavering determination.
​
Viewers leave this presentation understanding that the size of their dreams should never be limited by the size of their town—or by anyone else’s expectations. Chris inspires audiences to see that circumstances don’t define potential. With passion, purpose, and persistence, anyone can rise above challenges and turn their dreams into reality.

Make an IMPACT: Choosing the Path of Positive Influence

In this powerful and heartfelt keynote, Chris explores the Path of Influence — how we are shaped by the people around us, and how we, in turn, shape the lives of others and are making an IMPACT in the world.

Through deeply personal stories — from early childhood struggles and a life-changing connection in high school, to the highs and lows of a global wrestling career — Chris shares how even the smallest act of influence can redirect someone’s entire path. He shares personal moments of adversity, growth, and his unique connection with wrestling fans, all leading to his mission of giving back through his “Giv’er for Charity” initiative.

With humor, honesty, and heart, Chris challenges young people to reflect on who is influencing them — and who they are influencing. Audiences leave inspired by the realization that they have the power to be a positive force in the lives of others — starting now.

Whether in the wrestling ring, in the classroom, or in the community, influence is everywhere. The question is: What kind of influence will you choose to be?

The Grit Factor: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities

In this powerful keynote, Chris shares an inspiring message about the strength found in perseverance. He opens up about his challenging childhood, marked by family alcohol abuse and mental health struggles, and how—despite the odds—he chose to rise above it all with determination and vision.

As a teenager, Chris was told by his high school guidance counselor to give up on his dream of becoming a professional wrestler. He was “too small,” they said. “It’s just not realistic.” But Chris refused to let those words define his future. He quickly realized the journey would be tough, but with hard work and a positive mindset, anything was possible. He just needed to apply THE GRIT FACTOR.

Chris speaks directly to youth, offering real, actionable strategies to help them set goals and build a vision for their future. He shares a key lesson that changed his life: the choice to either just give up—or to JUST GIV’ER!

​Through personal stories and motivating insights, Chris reminds audiences that hardships don’t have to hold us back. Our circumstances may shape us, but they don’t control us. With passion, grit, and relentless drive, we all have the power to push forward and chase our dreams.

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.

Get Up, Get Involved . . . and GIV'ER

In this inspiring keynote presentation, Chris encourages youth to overcome any fears and anxieties they might have around getting involved at school.

Chris tells the story of his first day of high school and the overwhelming fear he experienced. However, due to a unique circumstance and a teacher who saw more in him than he saw in himself, Chris got involved in high school athletics and it completely changed the trajectory of his high school career… and his life. With the lessons he learned from getting involved with various teams and clubs at school, Chris has been able to use those lessons in his life and his many unique careers and charity endeavours.

Chris focuses on teaching youth lessons about overcoming their fears, going outside their comfort zone, and getting involved in their school community. To “GIV’ER” means to try your hardest and put in maximum effort in whatever it is you’re trying to accomplish. Chris uses this concept to encourage students to put in maximum effort in school engagement.

This program is perfect for any high school orientation program, a graduation program where students are moving onto new experiences, or any elementary, middle or high school that might be struggling with student engagement at their school.

Viewers take away the realization that despite their interests or talents… they can get involved at their school. And, if they do, numerous positive experiences await them.

Heads Up, Phones Down

Recent research shows that young people spend up to 9 hours a day on their phones—that’s 63 hours per week, far more than the hours in a full-time job. Studies also reveal that while devices keep students constantly connected, they’re also fuelling record levels of distraction and the highest rates of poor mental health ever reported among youth.

All schools are battling the “cell phone vs. no cell phone” dilemma. Many struggle to find balance, while others are enforcing strict no-phone policies to help students refocus on what truly matters.

In this powerful keynote, Chris challenges students to keep their heads up and their phones down. He explores what it really means to be a true influencer—someone who creates a positive impact through authentic, face-to-face connections rather than digital likes and follows. Chris shares inspiring stories from his own life about how staying aware and engaged with the people around him has allowed him to make a real difference in his community.
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Audience members will leave with a renewed understanding that life feels richer when you’re fully present. Chris provides simple, practical strategies to help students spend less time scrolling and more time connecting—with their peers, their community, and the world around them. By putting their phones down and their heads up, they’ll learn how to become genuine influencers who lead with purpose and positivity.

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
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