St. Clair Catholic students are in for an inspiring and transformative experience this April as they welcome Sam Demma, a best-selling author and one of Canada’s top keynote speakers. Sam will be presenting his powerful keynote, Empty Your Backpack, at St. Pat’s on April 23rd, and at UCC on April 24th.

Sam’s presentation is designed to help students address the mental burdens they carry and reflect on the negative beliefs and thoughts that may be holding them back. With over 700 performances across Canada, his messages of mental health, kindness, and leadership have deeply resonated with students everywhere.

In a recent podcast with Chris Preece, Manager of Mental Health Services at St. Clair Catholic, Sam discussed the importance of mental health in schools and the steps we can take to foster better understanding and support. “The goal of Sam’s keynote is to empower students to recognize and reflect on the mental weight they carry,” says Chris Preece. “It’s about building resilience and teaching practical tools that will not only help students navigate challenges but also inspire them to lead with compassion and strength.”

The keynote will offer students practical tools for building resilience, alongside leadership skills and strategies for developing a positive mindset. These 60-minute sessions are not just about listening—they’re about engaging in a deeper conversation about mental health, a topic that is so important for young people today.

“This event is more than just a presentation; it’s an opportunity for our whole community to come together and engage in a meaningful conversation about mental health,” says Lisa Demers, incoming Director of Education. “We’re excited to welcome Sam Demma, whose message will encourage students to reflect on their own journeys, build resilience, and connect with one another through compassion and understanding.”

Students from across the district will attend the event at their local Catholic high school, where they will experience Sam’s captivating keynote and have the chance to reflect on their own personal growth.

For more details on Sam Demma’s work or to listen to his podcast with Chris Preece, visit www.samdemma.com.

St. Clair Catholic looks forward to the powerful conversations ahead, as Sam’s visit is sure to leave a lasting impact on students and the broader school community.