SWATCA2018

Wisdom. Humour. Leadership experience. Memorable stories. These are the hallmarks of a Karl Subban keynote. Drawing on his experience as a coach, a principal, and the father of “Team Subban,” Subban talks about vision, perseverance, teamwork, and what it means to lead. He uses pointed anecdotes and powerful metaphors to tell a larger narrative about defining, and achieving, success. As a principal, Subban would often give a room full of students a simple command: “Anyone who wants to be better, raise your hand.” Every hand shot up. That came as no surprise. Who doesn’t want to be better? Everybody wants to be better. The problem, Subban saw, was that too many people didn't think they could be. Since those days, he has held the firmly-rooted belief that anyone can—and everyone should—reach their true potential. To that end, Subban shares a proven framework for success that resonates with everyone from educators to business and community leaders.

The Alberta Teachers’ Association has a storied past.  Over the last century, our members have demonstrated their constant creativity, ingenuity, and compassion and have helped to elevate the reputation of  Alberta’s public education system and its teaching profession to a level of excellence that is the envy of international jurisdictions.  Ironically, the work of dedicated teachers seems to be increasingly the subject of criticism at a more local level.  Join ATA President Greg Jeffery to reflect on what Alberta’s teachers have learned over their hundred year journey and what new courses we should set in the years to come.

In this motivational presentation, Julie and Lowell Taylor highlight Lowell’s visual impairment and how their positivity, teamwork and love help turn this obstacle into opportunities. Lowell was the first blind contestant on The Amazing Race, and now his sights are set on competing in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games in Road and Track Cycling. Together they share their life stories and the challenges of going blind, living with a blind husband, and the supports needed along the way. They prove that positivity can outshine a disability – that negativity can be more debilitating than a disability.