Keynote Speaking That Moves People Forward
Indigenous Keynote Speaker Topics
Carlin Nordstrom delivers engaging keynotes on resilience, leadership, belief, and overcoming adversity. Drawing on his experience as an Indigenous athlete, former professional hockey player, and youth mentor, he helps audiences turn challenges into momentum.
Keynote 1
Overcoming Adversity: Turning Setbacks Into Strength
Best for: Schools, youth organizations, First Nations communities, sports teams, conferences
Carlin shares his journey from facing racism in minor hockey to earning an NCAA Division I scholarship and playing professional hockey, showing audiences how to respond to setbacks and keep moving toward their goals.
Audiences will learn:
- How to turn difficult experiences into motivation
- Practical ways to build resilience and confidence
- Why setbacks do not define your future
- How to stay committed when progress feels slow
Keynote 2
Lead Like a Teammate: Leadership, Accountability & Team Culture
Best for: Corporations, leadership teams, sports organizations, employee development events
Carlin brings lessons from professional hockey and community leadership into a practical message about trust, accountability, and helping others succeed — built for teams that want stronger culture, collaboration, and performance.
Audiences will learn:
- How strong leaders build trust and accountability
- Why "your success is not my failure" changes team culture
- How to support teammates and colleagues more effectively
- Practical ways to lead by example under pressure
Keynote 3
Build Belief: Goal-Setting, Confidence & Taking Ownership
Best for: Students, young adults, career-development programs, youth leadership events
Carlin helps audiences move from uncertainty to action, connecting goal-setting, self-belief, and personal responsibility to real steps people can take toward education, career, athletics, or community leadership.
Audiences will learn:
- How to set meaningful goals and follow through
- How to build confidence through action
- Why ownership and effort matter more than talent alone
- How to create a practical plan for the next step
What to know before you book
- Formats
- Keynote, workshop, school presentation, virtual session
- Typical length
- 45–60 minute keynote; customizable
- Audiences
- Students, educators, corporate teams, community organizations, conferences
- Locations
- Saskatchewan-based; available across Canada
- AV needs
- Microphone, screen/projector if slides or video are used
- Customization
- Carlin discusses event goals, audience, and theme before the presentation
Frequently asked questions
How long is Carlin's keynote?
A typical keynote runs 45–60 minutes, and can be adjusted to fit your event schedule.
Does Carlin speak virtually?
Yes, virtual sessions are available in addition to in-person keynotes and workshops.
Can presentations be customized?
Yes. Carlin discusses your event's goals, audience, and theme before the presentation to tailor the message.
What types of organizations does he work with?
Schools, First Nations communities, corporations, conferences, sports organizations, and community groups across Canada.
How far in advance should we book?
Earlier is better for securing a preferred date, but reach out even for shorter-notice events — availability varies.
Not sure which keynote fits your event?
Tell us about your audience and goals, and we'll recommend the best fit.