NEWS RELEASE
SPEAKER SLAM
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Niagara Falls-based mental health expert and Child and Youthcare Professor, Calissa Ngozi, is set to compete in Speaker Slam’s 8th Annual Grand Slam: The Inspirational Speaking Finals on Nov. 9 at the CBC Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto.
Earlier this year, Ngozi moved audiences with her emotionally charged speech titled "Little Black Girl, Do You Know Your Worth?", earning second place in the Reinvention-themed competition. As an adopted Black girl raised in a predominantly white family, Ngozi has faced personal and societal challenges, wrestling with self-worth, identity, and trauma.
"Reinvention is about not being tethered to your past," Ngozi said of her speech earlier this year. "It’s about owning your story, embracing your unique journey, and knowing that you have the power to write your own ending."
For Ngozi, competing in the Grand Slam represents a pivotal milestone in her journey. "This feels like my full-circle moment," she said. "From reinvention in January, the press leading up to it, and all the wins and momentum I've had throughout 2024, it just seems perfect to end the year competing on the biggest stage for inspirational speaking in North America."
Now, she’s returning to the Grand Slam where the theme, Brave, invites speakers to share stories of courage and triumph over adversity. Ngozi’s own story—rich with both trials and triumphs—is a testament to her resilience.
"Bravery is going to look different for each person because everyone’s circumstances are unique," Ngozi explained. "With all the struggles I've gone through, I’ve come out stronger because of my bravery. I want people to know that they can do the same, no matter their challenges."
Speaker Slam co-founder Dan Shaikh highlighted Ngozi’s incredible journey in 2024: "Calissa has had an amazing year, appearing on numerous media networks and winning four awards in her community. Her momentum is undeniable, and she has an exciting future ahead of her. The audience is truly in for a treat at the Grand Slam—her powerful voice and inspiring message will leave a lasting impact."
The Grand Slam will showcase the top 14 speakers from the 2024 season, drawing participants from across North America, including cities such as Starkville, Mississippi, and Fort Worth, Texas. These speakers will compete for the prestigious Inspirational Speaker of the Year title, a $5,000 cash prize, and a prize package valued at $50,000.
Event Details:
Date: Nov. 9, 2024
Time: 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Location: CBC Glenn Gould Studio, 250 Front St. W., Toronto
Tickets: Available on Eventbrite [Livestreaming tickets available]
SPEAKERS COMPETING IN THE GRAND SLAM:
- Meagan O'Nan - Starkville, Mississippi, U.S.
- Calissa Ngozi - Niagara Falls
- Christine Farrugia - Toronto
- Yusuf Khoja - Toronto
- Alana Moor - Coquitlam, B.C.
- Madette Mendoza - Niagara Falls
- Scott Ferron - East Amherst, New York, U.S.
- Maya Woronicz - Timmins
- Val Vee - Ajax
- Aseel El-Baba - Toronto
- Tyler Ryan Hall - Fort Worth, Texas, U.S.
- Danielle Campo - Windsor
- Leisse Wilcox - Cobourg
- Mari Haruno - Toronto
About Calissa Ngozi: Calissa Ngozi, a seasoned mental health professional, educator, and Inspirational Speaker, brings over two decades of expertise to her impactful work. A graduate of Centennial College’s Child & Youth Worker Advanced Diploma Program, she currently serves as a Professor at Mohawk College. Her private practice, in collaboration with Bartimaeus Inc., offers vital mental health behaviour support services to individuals and families. Ngozi recently secured 2nd place at Speaker Slam, showcasing her inspirational prowess. More than her impressive career, Ngozi is a visionary in mental health advocacy, actively participating in conferences and serving on influential boards like her former role as a Board of Director with the Ontario Association of Child and Youth Care and her current role on the Board with the Pathstone Mental Health Foundation. Her story is not just about a career—it's about shaping the future of mental health care. She's been honoured with the 2024 Black Diamond Ball Award, Empowerment Excellence Award by Remarkable Mothers, and 2024 Niagara 40 Under 40 Business Award Recipient, her dedication to driving positive change shines through her extensive media presence on platforms like Breakfast Television, CHCH Morning Live, CTV News, The Morning Show for Global TV, and ByBlacks. @CalissaNgozi
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