The Canada Goal - Keynote Speaker
Andre Genthon
You can call me Andre...
Often described as an individual with a passion for humanity. For one reason or another - it is a priority for Andre to make a positive contribution to the well being of other people.
The spring/summer of 2015 marks the 10th year for The Canada Goal. Special thanks to those who have supported this initiative and it's development over the years.
How did The Canada Goal come to be?
Spring 2006: Andre was an Employment Consultant for an organization trusted with the task of helping individuals on Social Assistance create/reach their work (career) goals. After a few years of assisting many adult individuals he realized - if one reaches their adult stage of life not having developed healthy (productive) habits & routines, it becomes increasingly less likely they will be (motivated) to develop these important aspects of life as time goes on. This realization lead to a personal conclusion that his time and skills would be best spent working with younger individuals that are still in their prime-time 'development' stage of life. After some focused planning and preparation he began contacting schools across Canada with the first draft 'special event presentation'. The original idea was to concentrate on high school (Sr) students as he thought the key concepts within the sessions were most relevant at their stage of learning and life preparation/development. As he began presenting to (Sr) students the feedback from teachers, administrators and parents encouraged him to expand his focus to include middle school (Jr) students. Main reason being - studies show this is the 'prime time' stage to nurture the development of (healthy) habits and routines. As he began presenting to Jr & Sr students there would occasionally be a (K-12) dynamic and it was often decided to not leave anyone out. After running into this dilemma from time to time, it became clear that Andre needed to focus deeply thinking about how to be most effective at the primary (K-4/5) stage of learning. After 10 years of diligent efforts - he is confident this experience is truly effective at the 'primary' 'junior' and 'senior' stages of learning/development.
"The personal and professional growth over the years has been very rewarding. As I continue to reflect on what is important to me, others closest to me and the world around me... It appears that some of the 'root' most imporatant aspects of life are:
1. Life Learning
2. Self Awareness
3. Positive Attitude
4. Good Health
With these key aspects in mind, The Canada Goal has become a unique opportunity to share the best that I have to offer."
"To BE or not to BE...?" (Shakespeare)
What sets Andre apart from other special event presentations?
Many special event guest speakers come with a meaningful story about how they overcame a severe life challenge or perhaps a story about how they became a influential individual or celebrity. These events can be very impactful and their initiatives can bring forward positive results for many participants. Andre enjoys connecting with participants as more of a caring friendly neighbour with the intention of bringing forward a meaningful learning experience that is considerably relevant to everyone in the room. Andre could be considered more of an 'average' individual with common challenges similar to many Canadians. Having lived independently from the young age of 15 years old, Andre has had his share of life learning experiences to speak of. Sharing a short story from time to time will help to connect with participants. However, his presentation is not really about him at all. This initiative is designed to FOCUS on the essential KNOWLEDGE at hand. Coincidently, one of Andre's best talents is his ability to clearly and articulately explain something to help make it easier for learners to comprehend. Furthermore, Andre's vast involvement with technical production and theatrical events over the past 20 years helps him to create a enhanced learning environment. This enhancement will help to stimulate the minds of participants and improve their ability to pay attention (focus), learn and remember key concepts within the presentations.