Aboutthe Canadian Youth Speakers BureauThe Canadian Youth Speakers Bureau (CYSB) is a group of professional speakers that work together to bring powerful, inspirational, and valuable messages to Canadians.

CYSB is a branch of Youth Leadership Camps Canada (YLCC). YLCC inspires and empowers today’s youth to leave a positive impact on our world. With our innovative leadership programs and dynamic staff, we instil in students a greater understanding of the short and long-term impacts of their words, choices and actions.

The decision to form an all Canadian Bureau, came from YLCC’s founder, Stu Saunders. As a motivational speaker himself, Stu realized that there were no bureaus that focused on and promoted the Canadian narrative. Our team believes it is time to shift our focus and begin celebrating suc-cessful and hardworking Canadians to our next generation of leaders.

WHO?

All of our Speakers are Canadian and professional. They come from all dif-ferent backgrounds: entrepreneurship, entertainment, sports; overcoming obstacles and physical triumphs.

WHY?

Canadians supporting Canadians. We also give back! A portion from every CYSB speaker booked will be given to the Canadian Student Leadership Association (CSLA). We want to ensure the future of Canada is bright!

GUARANTEE

Each of speakers are guaranteed to bring you a professional, empowering and entertaining message. If you feel that that the presentation did not meet your expectations we will refund your speech fee in full.

WHERE?

Our speakers are available to every Canadian Province and for every educational institution, conference and corporation.

HOW?

For more information, please contact our Bureau Director, Jenna Anger. She will be happy to help you find the perfect speaker for your event and answer any questions you may have about how to book our amazing speakers!

contact: Jenna Anger email: speakers@ylcc.com call: 519.893.7023 ext. 224 visit: www.youthspeakers.ca

ALISON SPRINGERAlison Springer is a Youth Communications Specialist based in Calgary, Alberta. She has co-written curricu-lum used in Junior High Schools throughout Western Canada, and has developed and facilitated programs used in Calgary’s Youth Judicial System. 

A Professional Speaker and Trainer, Alison knows how to captivate and inspire teen audiences, keeping them engaged with her use of memorable sayings, innova-tive exercises and her own creative flair. With 20 years of experience working with youth; Alison brings a strong desire to do whatever it takes to keep students’ attention so that the main message gets through. 

Alison works with many diverse audiences ranging from street kids, student leaders, faith based youth groups, students with high needs, aboriginal youth and ESL students. This broad scope enables her to speak not just to the masses, but to the individuals among the masses. 

As the Founder of Young Woman of Power a non-profit organization that provides conferences, workshops and mentorship for young women ages 12 to 30, Alison is committed to seeing girl culture change in Canada. Alongside general assemblies, she provides talks specially geared towards girls. Alison has become a leading resource in developing and establishing change in girl culture.

Alison’s passion is helping youth discover leadership and the greatness that lies within. She wants to get them exchanging the status quo for a life of passion and purpose while placing high value on people.  

Her MISSION is to build a generation of CONFIDENT youth who will make positive choices that will change and shape their world and the world around them.    

“Confidence is the key to Inspiring Teen Greatness.”

TOPICS Inspiring Young Women Self-acceptance Overcoming challenges Diversity Bullying Leadership development Promoting Safe Schools & Healthy Boundaries

Testimonial“Alison encouraged us never to compare ourselves with others because it may have a negative impact on our confidence and self esteem. She explained that everyone has a strength that is useful and important regardless of what others have to say, we just have to wait for it and we will someday see it become a reality.”

Mariam StudentLester B. Pearson High School (Calgary, AB)

Alvin LawIf you have never experienced the “Alvin Law Effect!”, get ready. The first impression is obvious…he has no arms! But chances are, it won’t be what you remember. His fascinating story is one thing but the level of achievement this man has accomplished will challenge, inspire and affirm your own vision and journey and prove that you “can” achieve anything.

When Alvin Law speaks, you will feel emotions you may have never felt, learn things about yourself you never knew and most important, consider how to stop making excuses in pursuit of your dreams. We all want to make a difference and give our lives and careers meaning but it isn’t easy, isn’t meant to be, and Alvin will remind us the pursuit is worth the effort and the prize can be so sweet!

Alvin Law is a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), a member of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers Hall of Fame (HoF), a best selling author of “Alvin’s Laws of Life…5 Steps to Successfully Over-come Anything” and has been taking the stage for 33 years on five continents to over two million people.

Alvin believes we need an “Attitude Revolution” to reset how we view life’s “real” challenges and he is proud to lead the charge.

Topics Overcoming challenges Leadership development School involvement Stress management Team-building

Testimonial““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. GrimsteadForest Lawn Senior High School(Calgary, AB)

CARA FILLERCara Filler is Driven to Inspire. For the past 22 years, Cara has shared her powerful positive leadership and prevention programs with more than 2.5 million peo-ple in 5 countries. She has become one of the most sought after female motivational speakers in her field. She empowers students, teachers, parents and complete strangers to make everyday choices count. Why? Because if it causes just ONE person to care more, speak up and stand out – IT’S ALL WORTH IT!

Cara believes that it is not the events that happen in our lives that make us who we are, but the meaning we give to those events that control the steering wheel of our lives. The road hasn’t always been ‘easy’ for Cara. The day before her 18th birthday, Cara’s world was devastated and forever changed when her identical twin sister, Mairin, was killed in a high speed car crash. From that day forward, Cara committed to helping others put life and its challenges in perspective. She is a dedicated Safety Spaz and encourages everyone no matter your age to listen to your inner voice, stand up to a bully, get out of a speeding car, take the keys from a friend who has been drinking, ask for help or make a hard decision. Such a small act could save a life!

Cara keeps it real. She’s an incredible storyteller, a bad dancer, and totally unashamed to make a fool of herself. Cara remembers what it’s like to be a student, what it’s like not to fit in, what it’s like to lose some-one you love, and what it’s like to want something better for yourself and the world.She works closely with Youth organizations worldwide to educate, entertain and empower students.

Cara is also an entrepreneur and the founder of iSPOKE UP, a campaign for students to share their voice and their impact by speaking up for themselves and others and empowering positive choices.

Topics Teen Safe Driving Making Positive Choices Leadership Development Overcoming Challenges Resilience and Coping Strategies

Testimonial“Cara Filler holds the perfect recipe of addressing seri-ous 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”

- Teacher

Ian Tyson Since his very first show in 1989, Ian Tyson has strived to entertain and inspire people across North America with his unique brand of “Comedy with a Message.” Ian’s passion is always on full display during his presentations, with high energy, humour and heart-warming, relatable stories of overcoming obstacles, fostering happiness and making a difference in the lives of others.

An author, award-winning stand-up comic, master storyteller and insightful entertainer, Ian has performed for millions of people at the middle school, high school, college/university level and corporate clients in his career across the continent and around the world. Ian’s goal is always to connect with his audience and help see the small changes they can make every day to make their world a better place.

A 2009 winner of the “Leader of Distinction” Award for his contributions to student leadership, Ian served for 4 years on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Student Leadership Association, and was a co-founder of Youth Leadership Camps Canada (YLCC).

Ian’s book, “Hooray for Everything! The Optimist Manifes-to” is a collection of motivational stories, tips, and rants and has been well received across the continent.

Whether he is presenting to a school, staff or conference audience, conducting leadership or team building work-shops, Ian will challenge any crowd to seek the positive and be resilient in the face of negativity.

Topics Seeking Positivity Improving Social Climate Overcoming Challenges Resilience Leadership Development School Involvement Bullying & Respect of Others

Testimonial“We loved Ian’s enthusiasm; his ability to talk to the students at their level and keep them interested with relevant stories and humour. Ian provided them with great ideas for amazing events. We also appreciated his ability to read the audience. He knew what the kids wanted to hear.”

- Erin Wilkins, Student Leadership Advisor, Hope Secondary School (Hope, BC)

Dr. Greg WellsIs a scientist, broadcaster, author, coach and athlete, Dr. Greg Wells has dedicated his career to understand-ing human performance and how the human body responds to extreme conditions.

Dr. Wells is an assistant professor at the University of Toronto. He also serves as an associate scientist of physiology and experimental medicine at The Hospital for Sick Children. There, he and his team explore how to use exercise to prevent, diagnose and treat chronic illnesses in children.

Throughout his career, Dr. Wells has coached, trained and inspired dozens of elite athletes to win medals at World Championships, the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics. He has studied athletic perfor-mance in some of the most severe conditions on the planet, like the Andes Mountains and the Sahara Desert.

Dr. Wells has had his own experience with the challenges of adversity and human extremes. Late in his high school career, he broke his neck in a freak accident while swimming in the ocean and was in a halo brace before undergoing neurosurgery. Told by his doctor that he would never perform as an athlete again, he went on to compete at the international level in swimming. He has competed in events such as the Nanisivik Marathon - 600 miles north of the Arctic Circle - Ironman Canada, and the Tour D’Afrique, a grueling 11,000-kilometre event that is the longest bike race in the world.

Dr. Wells is a frequent contributor to The Globe and Mail and has been an expert source to other top media outlets like ABC News, “20/20,” The Discovery Channel, TSN, CBC and CTV. He also served as the sports medicine analyst for the Canadian Olympic Broadcast Consortium for the 2010 and 2012 Olympic Games.

Topics Physiology Psychology Nutrition Sleep High Performance Leadership

Josh Yandt Josh Yandt was bullied for years. After his father passed away, he became even more depressed and anxious. He lost all hope. Feeling invisible and un-wanted, Josh’s family moved and he started at a new high school. Going to a new high school he wanted things to be different. On his first day at this new school, he mustered all of his courage and decided to make a change in his life by finding one gesture of kindness he could do over and over again. He decided to hold doors for classmates. Day after day, he held doors open in the morning, at lunch and after school.

At first, his classmates thought he was strange, but he stuck with it. Eventually, the other students grew to love Josh and his gesture of opening doors for others. Josh was a genuinely kind person and it showed. For the first time in his life, classmates were nice to him and was treated with respect. He wasn’t invisible any more. Opening doors made the bullying stop. His gesture of kindness, as simple as it was, changed him and it started to change others too! He found purpose, meaning and a sense of belonging. Josh wants to help you find your gesture of kindness too.

Topics Overcoming challenges Bullying Kindness

TESTIMONIAL“Josh stood on stage and captured the 2300 students with a powerful and simple message that resonated with every person in the the room.”

Stu Saunders, Conference ChairOntario Student Leadership Conference

Testimonial“An uplifting, moving and inspirational experience that opened our eyes, ears, hearts, and minds to creative risks that build the future.” - Lisa Beaulne, Dufferin-Peel

Catholic District School Board (Mississauga, ON)

JOEL HILCHEYJoel Hilchey wants to change how people think about success, because too many people spend their time doing stuff they don’t really care about.

Joel thinks a lot about success, and he’s proud to be a true renaissance man. He earned a Master’s in environmental engineering, teaches sustainability at McMaster University, writes about leadership, and is often remembered as the speaker at conferences who juggles mousetraps. Mostly though, he tries to be a good dad, husband, and friend, so he only really works part-time.

In 2017, Joel earned his CSP™ (Certified Speaking Professional) designation – the speaking profession’s international measure of speaking experience and skill. The CSP™ designation indicates a proven track record of continuing speaking experience and exper-tise, as well as a commitment to ongoing education, outstanding client service, and ethical behavior.

Joel has two books - one that’s illustrated, and another one about becoming fearlessly creative. He founded a youth engagement initiative called The Beanstalk Project, is chair of the board of the world-renowned Hamilton Children’s Choir, and sang for 10 years in (arguably) Canada’s best barbershop quartet. He recently started taking circus classes, and he also loves to travel, cook, do yoga, and taste exotic foods, but that stuff is just for fun.

Topics leadership development Motivation Creativity Getting involved Pathways to success Improving social climate

EDUCATOR Topics Entitlementality Avoiding Burnout

Mark BlackMark Black is The Guy Who Get’s Teens ThinkingTM . A Heart & Double- Lung Transplant Recipient, 4-Time Marathon Runner, and best- selling author of “Live Life from the Heart”, Mark has been working with teens for over a decade.

As a former teacher, Mark understands teens in a unique way, having worked with them in a variety of settings. Unlike many adults, Mark has a special love for teens and a firm belief that most teens are engaged, productive, citizens. It is probably this love that teens connect with when Mark speaks to them. Mark’s compelling & powerful story of surviving against impossible odds, has been featured at hundreds of high schools, colleges and leadership conferences. Mark has been the featured keynote speaker at state conferences for Future Farmers of America (FFA), Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), and Business Professionals of America (BPA). He has appeared twice at Count Me In Canada’s larg-est student leadership event, that last year was live streamed to more than 2 Million People worldwide.

Mark has been featured on national media outlets and had his story featured in print, on radio and television including CBS and ABC, and was a featured author in Chicken Soup for the Canadian Soul. His powerful message is simple “don’t live every day like it’s your last day, just be ALIVE every day.” Mark is also an in-demand speaker in the corporate world, having spoken for: SunLife Financial, Amway, The Red Cross, and dozens of other world-leading organizations.

Mark lives on the east coast of Canada near where he was born, with his beautiful wife and their two wonderful children.

Topics Leadership Development Resilience Motivation Bullying Mental Health

Testimonial"The saying ‘speak from your heart’ certainly suits Mark Black’s presentation! His honest, down to earth conver-sation 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, PrincipalF.E. Feehan Catholic High School (Saskatoon, SK)

Molly BurkeAt just four-years-old, Molly Burke’s world became a little bit darker: she was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a rare retinal disease causing loss of vision. Despite this, and the ensuing obstacles and hardships she faced, it wasn’t long before she began bringing light into the lives of others. Molly began public speaking at the age of five as an ambassador for The Foundation Fighting Blindness Canada. Since then, she has inspired thousands with her story.

Over the years, as Molly’s vision deteriorated, her confidence and optimism only strengthened; but not without struggle or adversity. As a student she was tor-mented by bullies, and suffered from depression and anxiety. It wasn’t until she found the strength to face her challenges, and the courage to reach out to others, that she came to see the light and find hope.

As a motivational speaker, Molly has travelled the world sharing her story with youth, families and corpo-rate organizations. She has spoken on We Day stages across North America and the UK in front of audiences as large as 20,000. Molly has shared stages with some of entertainments biggest names; Demi Lovato, Mack-lemore, Martin Sheen and Magic Johnson, to name a few. She has worked with activist like Martin Luther King III, Archbishop Demond Tutu, Malala Yousafzai and the Kielburger brothers.

In 2009 Molly was awarded the Oakville YMCA Peace Award for outstanding contributions towards develop-ing understanding in the community. She ran with the Paralympic torch for the winter games and won the title of Miss Teen Canada International 2010. Molly was also a correspondent on the Orange Carpet for the 2013 TeenNick Halo Awards in Los Angeles. In the Fall of 2015 Molly was a panelist at a roundtable discussion on entrepreneurship and youth leadership with Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex. In January of 2016 Molly re-ceived the Oakville Rotary Club’s highest honour when she was given the Paul Harris Fellowship Award.

Molly enjoys downhill skiing, horseback riding, crafting lyrics, and practicing yoga. She is certified in Reiki and

is a passionate Guide Dog user and advocate. Along-side her successful career as a motivational speaker she models for mental health awareness clothing company Wear Your Label and co-hosts a weekly national televi-sion show, AMI This Week.

Molly openly shares her experiences of overcoming adversity and embracing diversity, connecting with her audiences at a very personal, emotional, and relatable level. She believes that we all have the strength within us to survive any challenge, and learn how to thrive from those struggles. Molly encourages others to let go of the past and look to the future with bright eyes and a positive outlook. Her goal is to educate, motivate and inspire others to find peace, happiness and achieve their goals, even in the darkest days.

Topics Bullying Overcoming challenges Leadership development Diversity Inspiring young women Self-acceptance

Testimonial"Molly is my inspiration, through all of the trouble she has experience she kept going not only perservering through life but getting the most out of it. When I feel most down I just remember what Molly signifies to me; that no matter what life throws at you you must keep going."

Amanda Johnson, Student

Testimonial“Orlando speaks from the heart with sincerity, enthusi-asm, 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.”

TeacherBeaconsfield H.S. (Montreal, QC)

Orlando BowenOrlando Bowen’s mission is to inspire people to be GameChangers in the lives of others. GameChangers show up in ways that powerfully influence the path, perspectives and possibilities of those they interact with.

Orlando has been motivating youth and corporate audi-ences for years, both through his inspiring keynotes as well as through his role as the passionate and dedicated founder and Executive Director of One Voice One Team Youth Leadership Organization, a charity based in the Greater Toronto Area. Orlando’s “S.W.O.L.E.”™ Leader-ship Development Program empowers people to serve with passion and vision. The acronym “S.W.O.L.E.”™ stands for Self respect, Work hard, Overcome adversity, Lead by example, and Excellence.

Orlando has been recognized for his work by; Being awarded a 2012 AFRICAN CANADIAN ACHIEVEMENT AWARD, 2013 QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE MEDAL and a national 2014 HARRY JEROME AWARD for com-munity service and a 2015 National Youth Empow-erment Award. In 2015, he served as the president of the Toronto Chapter of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers and contributes to various committees that focus on building better communities throughout North America.

His powerful personal experiences ignite and inspire people of all ages and he is committed to being ‘all in’ with the audiences he engages.

Topics Bullying Leadership development Resilience Improving school climate

Testimonial“We need to say “Thank You.” You were perfect timing, and you spoke, touched and changed many lives yesterday. Our senior teachers have said it was the best message in their long careers.”

Daniel, Teacher, Sussex District High School(Sussex, ON)

Nick FoleyIs the founder of Celebrate the Hero, Move for Inclu-sion and Good Sport Education. All three are initiatives that motivate and empower people of all ages to make a difference by propagating good through action.

Nick has had the privilege of speaking all over North America and is also the author of two books: “Act Like You’ve Been There: Rules For My Brother” which is a guide to living with integrity and perpetuating good citizenship, and most recently the children’s book “Kapernakus” (Ka- pern-a-kus) which focuses on self-esteem and inclusion.

Celebrate the Hero initiative, focuses on the positive that students facilitate on a daily basis, Celebrate the Hero most provides sustainable programs and presentations to schools, communities, business and sports teams all over Canada.

Most recently Move for Inclusion took Nick on a coast to coast bike trip from Victoria BC to St John’s NFLND, stopping at various locations to speak about Inclusion of all people without bias. Nick was able to complete his 8312 km journey on July 25th 2015 after 95 days on the bike. On his ride Nick spoke to thousands of people on the importance of creating a culture of understanding and acceptance as well as raising money for charities.

Good Sport Education is an online based company that works with sports teams and schools on the im-portance of positive choices in and around the desired sport or school that participants play or attend. Good Sport™ is a progressive thinking online company that is designed for athletes at any level and ability. Good Sport’s mission is to provide interactive and sustain-able programming that helps in the development of athlete’s overall character development.”

Nick is driven by the desire to perpetuate an environ-ment of self-worth, acceptance, and empowerment in communities, schools, businesses, and families.

Topics Bullying Inclusion Taking initiative Overcoming challenges Sports connections

Nick is the very proud father of beautiful Brynn, from whom he has learned more than he ever thought imag-inable. She has been, and continues to be the greatest teacher in his life.

PETER KATZPeter Katz is a JUNO Award, Canadian Screen Award and 2-time Canadian Folk Music Award-nominated singer-songwriter who has spent the past 10+ years touring nationally and internationally to capacity crowds. He has sold out premiere venues from the National Arts Centre in Ottawa to the Harbourfront Centre Theatre in Toronto, to the legendary Paradiso in Amsterdam. CBC Radio 2’s Tom Power called his latest release We Are The Reckoning “one of the most heartfelt, beautiful and vulnerable records of the year… an astonishing record”. Peter has also shared the stage and studio with the likes of Academy Award Winner Glen Hansard (Once) and legendary icon Garth Hudson (from The Band) to name a few.

In addition to his career as a performing singer-song-writer, Peter has a tremendous passion for working with youth. He has been a proud mentor for the School Alliance of Student Songwriters (SASS) for over 10 years and also spends a month every summer in the mountains of Alberta doing character building retreats with high school students through the FACES program (Facilitating Awareness through Character Building Experiences for Students).

Peter is also a 2-time TEDx fellow and gifted public speaker, being called on to give keynote talks and presentations to everyone from the 4000 delegates at the International Aeronautical Federation Conference (alongside Cirque Du Soleil and Commander Chris Hadfield) to countless workshops and presentations in schools and communities across the country. Drawing the direct correlation between the moments of great-est discomfort, fear and intimidation in his life journey to the greatest moments of discovery, growth and opportunity, Peter engages his audience through his songs and stories and leaves them feeling a renewed sense of courage and determination to see what’s on the other side of that discomfort and fear in their lives.

Topics Bullying Leadership development Resilience Creative process

Testimonial“I have seen a LOT of presenters come through our school over the years, and I am compelled to say that what Peter did that day was a cut above. To have a combination of a world-class artist with such a gifted and inspirational storyteller made for an astonishing presentation that the students connected with on a profound level. I still have students coming up to me telling me how inspired they were by Peter’s message and music, I feel so grateful that we were able to have him with us that day.”

David OrrChinook High School(Lethbridge, AB)

SARAH WELLSEver since Sarah was a child she has always loved to run. Whether it was around the park, at the cottage or during a soccer game, Sarah was running. Little did she know this simple activity would become the center of her biggest dream.

Sarah grew up playing many sports from ice hockey and curling to baseball and soccer. But it was her high school teacher, Dave Hunt, who also happened to be a National Team coach that recognized her talent and encouraged her to pursue track and field more seriously. Sarah quickly fell in love with hurdles and her Olympic journey would unknowingly begin.

When Sarah graduated High School, she chose to attend the University of Toronto Faculty of Physical Education and Kinesiology to continue her educa-tion as well as continue to work with coach Dave. Within their 8 years working together, Sarah became a 3-time National Champion and 5-time National Team member and represented Canada in multiple World Youth, World Junior and Pan American Junior Championships.

In 2011, the year before the Olympics, Sarah was unfortunately diagnosed with a stress fracture in her left femur (thigh bone), which tragically sidelined her for 9 months. With the Olympic year fast approaching, Sarah was eager to get back on the track following a grueling recovery and rehabilitation program. When she was finally cleared to run, the London Olympics were only 8 months away and few people believed Sarah would be able to overcome such a devastating injury and ultimately compete in the Olympic Games. However, Sarah surrounded herself with an integrated team of physicians, coaches, family, and friends, which enabled her to train, perform and continue to remain realistic about a seemingly impossible dream.

Fortunately, through hard work, perseverance and an unwavering belief in herself, Sarah ran Olympic standard, won the Canadian championships, and was named to the 2012 Canadian Olympic team. At the games, Sarah made it through the heats to the Olym-

pic semi-final round. She placed herself in the top 24 in the world and was one of the youngest competitors in the field.

Since those games Sarah has added to her National Championship Gold medal count and brought home her first international medals in the 2015 Pan American Games, with a silver in the 400m hurdles and bronze medal in the 4x400m relay. Sarah has set her sights on becoming a two time Olympian and is currently training for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics; while actively telling her story to inspire others to overcome obstacles, relentlessly pursue their goals and have the courage to Believe in themselves!

Testimonial“Sarah is an inspiration to not only athletes, but to all of us overcoming life’s obstacles. Her motto “Believe” is something we should all remember in those challeng-ing moments. Thank you Sarah, you are an inspiration. “

John Jelaca, TeacherEllwood Memorial Public School(Caledon, ON)

Topics Overcoming challenges Sports connections Inspiring young women Believe in your dreams

Scott Hammell Stu Saunders*Scott Hammell has been entertaining professionally since 1998. In the eighteen years since, the four-time Guinness World Record holder has hung upside down from a hot air balloon while locked in a straitjacket and chains (World’s Highest Suspension Straitjacket Escape) for a feature spot on the season premier of Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, dangled by his ankles and juggled for over a minute and a half (Longest Inverted Juggling Duration), successfully completed a card trick while skydiving (World’s Fastest Moving Card Trick), jumped from an airplane while blindfolded and handcuffed (Highest Blindfolded Skydive), juggled live explosives and caught a bullet fired from a high powered sniper rifle for a feature length documentary for Super Channel.

If his stunts seem crazy to you, then you should hear him speak! You’ll find that his training and dedication to his craft are rigorous, the risks he takes are calcu-lated, and his dream is to inspire others to challenge themselves. His speech topics are as varied as his skillset, but there is one enduring philosophy: find your passion, and make it happen.

Scott’s work has brought him around the world. He has performed across North America, as well as in Cuba, Barbados, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Singapore, Bali, Malaysia, Great Britain, France, Belgium, Qatar, Australia, and Kenya. He has performed for royalty and foreign dignitaries, including the Prime Minister of Malaysia and Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al Nuaimi . Over the years, Scott has been honoured to share the stage with a host of inspiring people, including Al Gore, Mia Farrow, Jesse Jackson, Stephen Lewis, Samantha Nutt, and Robert Kennedy Jr among many others.

Since 1991 Stu has been traveling North America delivering inspirational and hilarious speeches to over 2 million people in every province, the Yukon, across Europe and over 40 American states.

In 2005, Stu was awarded the Canadian Leader of Distinction award recognizing him for his contribu-tions to youth leadership in Canada.

In 1999 he was tagged as one of North America’s funniest young comedians. Stu also has been named one of the top 30 leadership trainers and facilitators in the world, a list that includes Stephen Covey, Robin Sharma and Tony Robbins.

Stu Saunders is the founder and owner of Youth Lead-ership Camps Canada (YLCC), a summer camp and 2 full service leadership training centres. Stu runs the largest multi day leadership conference in Canada, the Ontario Student Leadership Conference (OSLC).

In 2006 Stu partnered with Robin Sharma who is the founder of one of the worlds most recognized leadership development firms; Sharma Leadership International (http://www.robinsharma.com). This has been a treasured and exciting journey for Stu as Robin Sharma is one of the most influential and inspirational individuals in the world of leadership.

Stu has been known for his ability to inspire and connect with the youth and he strives to provoke posi-tive change. He exudes courage and strength with his persona and somehow targets the true inner self within all those that he interacts with.

Stu is the proud single father of three wonderful children.

Testimonial “Stu is personable. Students are willing to listen to him. They enjoy listening to him. He has a message, but he is also entertaining. He is fun to listen to and students don’t feel talked down to or preached at.”

Tanya Lacey McKinnon Park Secondary School(Caledonia, ON)

Testimonial“Scott has an innate gift for discovering what the challenges and needs of his audience are and incorporating them into his presentations. Whether it’s the theme of our event or a particular project we’re working on, Scott’s speeches are always tailored to challenging and inspiring our students to set their goals and to surpass them.”

Peter Nield, Student Leadership AdvisorWestwood Senior High School(Hudson, QC)

Topics Overcoming challenges Leadership development School involvement Stress management Team-building

Topics Bullying Overcoming challenges Leadership development Sports connections Diversity School involvement

* Stu is no longer available for in-school presentations

&Dave ConlonDirector of Communications for CSLA

Don WHEELER Chair of CSLA

www.studentleadership.ca

Yours truly,

A LETTER FROMTH

ECSLADear administrator or teacher advisor:

As an educational leader, you are interested in providing opportunities for growth outside of the academic classroom for your students. This is important to you because this growth contributes to a positive school culture and climate. The Canadian Student Leadership Association has been supporting student leadership and positive school climate in Canada since 1987, and we are comprised of teacher advisors from all across the country committed to creating strong school communi-ties. CSLA’s vision is to build a strong community of students across the country who, inspired by their student leadership experiences, are actively engaged in their schools and communities and contributing to the growth and betterment of society.

The Canadian Student Leadership Association prides itself in providing and recommending quality resources and experiences to schools across Canada. The Cana-dian Youth Speaker’s Bureau has some of the best youth speakers in Canada, and these speakers have presented at national and provincial conferences that CSLA supports across this country. These speakers have our highest recommendation and approval because we have heard their messages, and we believe in their value. It is important that Canadian youth hear stories and positive messages from Canadian speakers, and this speaker’s bureau roster provides the guarantee that you will not be disappointed.

Time is precious during a school day and assemblies must contribute to the school’s mission and vision. CSLA endorses the quality and professionalism of these speakers and firmly believes that they will provide opportunities for growth outside and within your classrooms.

IN LEADERSHIP and gratitide,

STU SAUNDERSFOUNDER YLCC INC.www.ylcc.com

Ok, I will admit it...I am obsessed with Canada! I love this country. I’ll sing our country’s praises to anyone that will listen. I wear my CBC t-shirt proudly, I support Canadian teams, I’m overly polite, I say “eh” and “sorry” to strangers. We have an amazing country, populated by some pretty incredible people, and I think we should celebrate that. It’s an interesting time in the world; we have many of the leaders of other counties saying things like, “The World needs more Canada!”. My feeling is that Canada could also use more Canada. Especially our students and educators.

There has never been a speakers bureau in this country that has been dedicated to bringing authentic stories to youth and educators, nor has there been one made up entirely of Canadians. And why not? Perhaps we don’t want to feel boastful or we feel that Canadians just aren’t “good” enough. I could not disagree more… we have some of the best speakers in the world right here, and we should celebrate them! Don’t get me wrong, there are STUpendous speakers from other countries and varying walks of life that are more than worthy of listening to. However, they are not superior to their Canadian counterparts. We are just as talented, and in MANY ways a better choice for Canadian audiences.

That is why I wanted to start the Canadian Youth Speakers Bureau. We have a group of 15 speakers, rich in diversity and skilled in their craft. We have an abundance of relevant messages that will resonate with youth of all ages and educators at all levels. What an awesome opportunity to expose our next generation to some of the most engaging and gifted leaders our country has to offer. From scientists to award winning musicians, Olympic athletes to passionate storytellers - together, WE have a mission to help build the next generation.

I personally guarantee all of these presenters. If for any reason you feel that they did not live up to their billing we will refund your fee. I know you won’t be disappointed. As Canada has just celebrated our 150th year; why not help do our part in ensuring a rich and inspired Canadian culture for the next 150.

The Canadian Youth Speakers Bureau - Canadians inspiring Canadians!

A LETTERFR

OM STU

www.youthspeakers.ca545 trillium drive, unit 6, 2nd floor.

kitchener, ontario n2r 1J4519-893-7023 ext. 224

www.ylcc.com

At the Canadian Youth Speakers Bureau we are committed to providing you with the best presenters that Canada has to offer. Once you have booked one of our amazing Canadians we need your help! Below are the tips for ensuring that you have the most impactful and empower-ing presentation for your audience.

This is imperative for any speaker to have a successful presentation. It is always best to make sure this is set up and tested prior to approval. Some speakers use music in their presentations so an axillary cable is helpful for connecting devices to the speakers.

Some speakers will need a table for props or may want a chair or stool to use for themselves or for a volunteer. It is always good to have these items ready in the case that they are needed.

Slides are often used as part of a presentation. Often speakers will bring their own laptop to hook up, but some may have it on a USB stick. It is essential that the lighting be dim enough for everyone.

Make sure you take the time to review the speakers preparation pack-age. If you have any questions contact your representative at the Youth Speakers Bureau and they will help. Most keynote presentations are approximately 60 minutes in length

but can be adjusted for the needs of the event. It is always good to make sure enough time is left for students to get situated before start-ing the presentation. It is easier for everyone to enjoy their time when no one is rushed! Having extra time allows for questions, pictures and autographs afterwards.

Thank you - Don’t forget to say thank you at the end of the presentation. Have someone ready to jump up on the stage and show some gratitude. Maybe present the speaker with a nice piece of SWAG to say thanks!

Speakers are bound to get thirsty after talking for an hour to a large group. Having water available for the speakers is always a nice gesture!

Many speakers have slides or music with their presentation. It is help-ful when there is a student available to meet prior to the presentation and assist!

quality sound systemAND microphone

chair, stool or table

LCD projector and screen

The Prep Package

sufficient time

Thank you

water

student volunteer

Every speaker has a personal introduction to be read to the audience prior to their performance. Having a printed copy available to whom-ever is presenting is a great way to be prepared! Make sure who ever is introducing the speaker has read through and understands it clearly.

The best presentations are when teachers are present, visible andengaged. Please make sure adults sit with their class and participate.It will go a long way to creating the perfect environment for the assembly.

The ideal place for a presentation allows for the entire audience to have an unrestricted view of the speaker. Many speakers move around when they speak in order to engage with the audience, therefore space to move about is always preferred. Also, testing the sound system beforehand is important to make sure that everyone can hear the speaker clearly.

printed copy of thespeaker’s introduction

Supervision

appropriate venue

@CYSpeaker @youthspeakers @YouthSpeakers