The key to the success of my talks is stories—let extraordinary young activists deliver their hopeful and helpful messages in their own video-taped voices, or in their art and music. My aim is to inspire students to feel deeply, empower them to act responsibly, and motivate them to learn and think critically. By example, the activists show that by working together and making positive choices, even small efforts can make the world better and kinder.
Presentation rates:
Virtual 60-minute presentation rates:
- One = $250
- Two = $425
- Three = $550
- Four = $700
In person 60-minute presentation rates:
- One = $350
- Two = $550
- Three = $750
- Four = $950
- Keynote for 150+ audience: $550
Add HST (13%)
*Special flat fee mileage: $25, $50 over 50k
Schools can share the day with a nearby school for additional savings.
The subject matter is best suited for grades 3 – 8.
The Writers’ Union, subsidies may be available: http://www.writersunion.ca/content/writers-schools
Presentation Descriptions:
Inspiring Young Hearts and Minds:
Topics in this general presentation include:
- Environmental & Climate Justice, animal protection, tree planting
- First Nations: philosophy, values, water protection, education equity
- Child rights & social justice: inequality, hunger, homelessness
- Compassion & kindness, peace, Black Lives Matter, refugees,
In the days before the virtual visit, I send three 10-minute movies narrated by me, with excerpts from speeches and interviews of the featured activists. This allows students to prepare questions in advance of the hour-long Q & A.
The Climate Emergency: Kids to the Rescue!
Eco-Anxiety over the looming climate crisis is affecting many young people. When Greta Thunberg cried, “Our house is on fire!”, the world listened. Youth activism is making a profound difference. Speaking out and taking action is proving to be an antidote to children’s fear and worry about the future. Through inspiring true stories of young environmental and indigenous activists, this presentation encourages kids to learn the science, find their voice, and imagine a more sustainable way of living on our precious Earth.
First Nations Truth and Reconciliation:
Shannen Koostachin’s grade 8 class launched a national campaign for the right to a decent school in Attawapiskat First Nation—and won! This important true story raises awareness of contemporary FN issues such as inequality in education and services, true Aboriginal history and treaty rights, and the impact of residential schools. Shannen and the Dream for a School
Our Future: How Kids are Taking Action:
Hope and optimism is the antidote to the fear and worry young people are experiencing over disturbing news: the climate crisis, gun violence, racism, cyber-bullying, and animal extinctions, and on and on. Empowered child activists have taken action against injustice, inequity, and environmental degradation, and in doing so have made changes to improve their future. Children want to be part of the solution to the world’s problems. Our Future offers indigenous perspectives and simple suggestions to inspire the activist in all of us.
The Hero Within:
True heroes don’t need capes or radio-active rodent bites. They just need big hearts and the courage to be leaders, stand up for the rights of children, and take action against unfairness and injustice. Compassionate young role models show kids how they can make a difference and create a more equitable world.