Michel Chikwanine

A former child soldier, Michel Chikwanine has already endured and overcome unimaginable pain and struggles. His passion and belief in the possibility of change makes him a truly remarkable individual and humanitarian. In this 50 minute uplifting, inspirational, and deeply personal speech that will bring forth laughter and emotions from all audiences, he details his incredible story of being a child soldier, his miraculous escape and subsequent fight to end an issue that has affected his entire life. He details his fight with trauma and how drumming and storytelling have helped him find healing and purpose.

Michel Chikwanine’s childhood was characterized by incredible perseverance and courage. Despite his traumatic childhood, he’s succeeded against all odds. This speech focuses on the story of a young Congolese man guided by family, courage and fierce determination. In his deeply moving and inspirational talk, he will speak about overcoming fear, personal perseverance as important personal pillars, that are key to being successful in any industry. Ideal for groups looking for a mix of inspiration and information, this presentation is also suitable for elementary and middle schools that are interested in speaking about bullying, overcoming fear and succeeding.

Having grown up under a dictator who exemplified all the qualities of a terrible leader. In this uplifting, inspirational, and deeply personal presentation, Michel looks at inspiring African leaders that have left positive legacies across the Continent of Africa, the meaning and importance of leadership. Ultimately, he highlights ways we can learn from their qualities in order for us to be more effective leaders – in the world and in the workplace – because the ability to lead isn’t just for special people, but quality all of possess.

Refugee to Author: My Canadian Journey
In 1998, Michel and his family were forced to leave everything they’ve ever had because of his father’s work as a Human rights Activist. In this presentation, he highlights the difficult journey refugees have to make for survival, his journey to Canada where he was accepted and encouraged by a community that embraced and helped him thrive. Ideal for groups looking for a mix of inspiration and information, this presentation is also suitable for elementary and middle schools that are interested in speaking about bullying, overcoming fear and succeeding.

In 1998, Michel and his family were forced to leave everything they’ve ever had because of his father’s work as a Human rights Activist. In this presentation, he highlights the difficult journey refugees have to make for survival, his journey to Canada where he was accepted and encouraged by a community that embraced and helped him thrive. Ideal for groups looking for a mix of inspiration and information, this presentation is also suitable for elementary and middle schools that are interested in speaking about bullying, overcoming fear and succeeding.