Belief
Confidence to set goals and take ownership of the path forward.
Indigenous Keynote Speaker, Former Professional Hockey Player & Youth Mentor
Carlin Nordstrom
Carlin helps students, communities, and workplace teams build belief, resilience, and leadership through the lessons of his lived experience.
Carlin Nordstrom is a Saskatchewan-based Indigenous keynote speaker and founder of Kisik Youth Wellness and Kisik Pathways to Success. A member of Poundmaker First Nation, he draws on his journey through minor hockey, NCAA Division I hockey, and professional hockey to speak about perseverance, identity, leadership, and achieving goals.
Carlin speaks to schools, First Nations communities, youth organizations, corporations, conferences, and community events across Canada.
Career Journey
From Saskatchewan to the Ottawa Senators
1
Grew up playing hockey in Warman, Saskatchewan
Carlin faced racism as the only First Nations player on his team, an experience that shaped his commitment to resilience and leadership.
2
Earned an NCAA Division I scholarship
He played at Western Michigan University and served as assistant captain.
3
Played professional hockey
His career included two games with the Ottawa Senators.
4
Built youth and community programs
Carlin founded Kisik Youth Wellness and Kisik Pathways to Success, supporting youth leadership, wellness, and career development.
5
Speaks across Canada
He delivers keynotes and workshops for schools, First Nations communities, corporations, and conferences.
What Audiences Get
A practical message, not just a story
Resilience
Tools for working through setbacks instead of being stopped by them.
Leadership
What it means to lead by example, on a team or in an organization.
Perseverance
How to keep moving when circumstances don't go as planned.
Speaking Experience
A decade of presentations across Canada
10+
Years of Motivational Speaking Experience
5
Provinces Presented Across
10
Years of Kisik Youth Wellness Camps
Yr 5
Kisik Pathways to Success
"Carlin delivered his speech to our entire student population of over 400 students ranging from grades 9-12. Carlin discussed the great challenges he faced and how perseverance and work ethic led to his success. Carlin's message of being an Indigenous athlete was impactful to our student population where nearly half of our students identify as FNMI."
Samear Abougouche, Principal — J.A. Williams High School
Book Carlin for Your Next Event
Bring a practical, inspiring message on belief, resilience, leadership, and moving forward. Carlin speaks across Canada and offers keynotes, workshops, and virtual presentations.