Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Michel Chikwanine has lived through experiences that few could imagine and even fewer could survive. At 5-years old, he was abducted and forced to become a child soldier during the Great War of Africa, a conflict that claimed more than 5.8 million lives, including his father’s. Out of this unimaginable trauma, Michel emerged with a profound belief in humanity’s capacity for hope, resilience, and change.
As a United Nations Fellow for People of African Descent, Michel uses his story to inspire audiences around the world to believe in their own power to make a difference. His keynotes leave people with a renewed sense of purpose, perspective, and social responsibility, reminding us all that even in the darkest moments, hope can prevail.
An accomplished motivational speaker and author, Michel has addressed millions of people across North America and beyond. He has shared the stage with luminaries such as His Holiness the Dalai Lama, former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr., and former Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin.
He was also featured on Oprah Winfrey’s “O Ambassadors: Roots of Action” tour and has been profiled by national media including CBC, CTV, and major newspapers.
Michel is the co-author of the acclaimed graphic novel Child Soldier: When Boys and Girls Are Used in War, which has educated and inspired countless young readers.
A graduate of the University of Toronto with a specialization in African Studies, he now serves as a Performance Lifestyle Advisor for the NBA Academy in Senegal, where he mentors the next generation of athletes and leaders.
Through his extraordinary story and unwavering compassion, Michel Chikwanine reminds audiences that true leadership begins with empathy, courage, and the belief that change is always possible.
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Presentations
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Virtual Tech Details
Technology Capabilities
• High definition camera and mic for an unparalleled virtual experience for groups of all sizes
• Expertise with all virtual platforms including Google Meet, Zoom, Go-To Meetings & Webinars
• Customized, personalized combinations of keynotes, webinars, fireside chats, breakout sessions and Q&A
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The Other Side of Fear: A Journey from Survival to Purpose
Michel Chikwanine, former child soldier, author, and leadership coach, shares his powerful journey from war-torn Congo to becoming a voice for resilience and purpose.
Through vivid storytelling and hard-won wisdom, Michel reveals that courage isn’t the absence of fear, but the decision to act despite it. This keynote blends personal narrative with actionable insights on moving through fear, finding purpose after trauma, and building community in unexpected places.
Audience Takeaways:
• Reframe fear as information, not an enemy — Learn to recognize fear as a signal that you’re on the edge of meaningful growth
• Understand the difference between surviving and thriving — Discover how to move from reactive survival mode to intentional purpose-driven living
• Develop a practical framework for courage — Walk away with three concrete steps to move through fear in your own life
• Connect personal resilience to collective change — See how individual acts of courage create ripples that transform communities
• Honour your story without being defined by it — Learn how to acknowledge trauma and hardship while stepping into your full potential
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A Journey to Hope: From Child Soldier to Activist
An educational and inspirational speech that will give you the tools to start making a difference today. Inspiring for all audiences
A former child soldier, Michel Chikwanine has already endured and overcome unimaginable pain and struggles. His passion and belief in the possibility for change makes him a truly remarkable individual and humanitarian.
In this 50-minute presentation, Michel details his incredible story of being a child soldier, his miraculous escape, and subsequent fight to end an issue that has affected his entire life. It is an uplifting, inspirational, and deeply personal talk that will bring forth laughter and emotions from all audiences. He details his fight with trauma and how drumming and storytelling have helped him find healing and purpose
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Courage to Overcome Fear
Inspirational and Educational
(suitable for all audiences including elementary and middle schools that are interested in speaking about bullying, overcoming fear and succeeding.)
Michel Chikwanine’s childhood was characterized by incredible trauma, perseverance and courage. Despite his difficult past, he’s succeeded against all odds. This keynote focuses on the story of Michel, a young Congolese man guided by family, resolution, and fierce determination.
In his deeply moving and inspirational talk, Michel will speak about perseverance and overcoming fear as important aspects of his personal foundation, and how they can be harnessed to achieve success in any industry.
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Leadership
As a child soldier, Michel Chikwanine grew up under a dictator who exemplified all the qualities of a terrible leader.
In this deeply personal presentation, Michel looks at inspiring African leaders who have left positive legacies across the continent, and the meaning and importance of good leadership. He highlights ways we can learn from their admirable qualities for us to be more impactful leaders – in the world and in the workplace. Good leadership isn’t just a skill for special people, but a quality that all of us possess.
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Refugee to Author: My Canadian Journey
In 1998, Michel and his family were forced to leave everything they had because of his father’s dedication to his human rights work. In this presentation, Michel speaks about the difficult journey refugees must take to survive, and his move to Canada where he was accepted and encouraged by a community that embraced him and helped him thrive.
Virtual Tech Details
Technology Capabilities
• High definition camera and mic for an unparalleled virtual experience for groups of all sizes
• Expertise with all virtual platforms including Google Meet, Zoom, Go-To Meetings & Webinars
• Customized, personalized combinations of keynotes, webinars, fireside chats, breakout sessions and Q&A
The Other Side of Fear: A Journey from Survival to Purpose
Michel Chikwanine, former child soldier, author, and leadership coach, shares his powerful journey from war-torn Congo to becoming a voice for resilience and purpose.
Through vivid storytelling and hard-won wisdom, Michel reveals that courage isn’t the absence of fear, but the decision to act despite it. This keynote blends personal narrative with actionable insights on moving through fear, finding purpose after trauma, and building community in unexpected places.
Audience Takeaways:
• Reframe fear as information, not an enemy — Learn to recognize fear as a signal that you’re on the edge of meaningful growth
• Understand the difference between surviving and thriving — Discover how to move from reactive survival mode to intentional purpose-driven living
• Develop a practical framework for courage — Walk away with three concrete steps to move through fear in your own life
• Connect personal resilience to collective change — See how individual acts of courage create ripples that transform communities
• Honour your story without being defined by it — Learn how to acknowledge trauma and hardship while stepping into your full potential
A Journey to Hope: From Child Soldier to Activist
An educational and inspirational speech that will give you the tools to start making a difference today. Inspiring for all audiences
A former child soldier, Michel Chikwanine has already endured and overcome unimaginable pain and struggles. His passion and belief in the possibility for change makes him a truly remarkable individual and humanitarian.
In this 50-minute presentation, Michel details his incredible story of being a child soldier, his miraculous escape, and subsequent fight to end an issue that has affected his entire life. It is an uplifting, inspirational, and deeply personal talk that will bring forth laughter and emotions from all audiences. He details his fight with trauma and how drumming and storytelling have helped him find healing and purpose
Courage to Overcome Fear
Inspirational and Educational
(suitable for all audiences including elementary and middle schools that are interested in speaking about bullying, overcoming fear and succeeding.)
Michel Chikwanine’s childhood was characterized by incredible trauma, perseverance and courage. Despite his difficult past, he’s succeeded against all odds. This keynote focuses on the story of Michel, a young Congolese man guided by family, resolution, and fierce determination.
In his deeply moving and inspirational talk, Michel will speak about perseverance and overcoming fear as important aspects of his personal foundation, and how they can be harnessed to achieve success in any industry.
Leadership
As a child soldier, Michel Chikwanine grew up under a dictator who exemplified all the qualities of a terrible leader.
In this deeply personal presentation, Michel looks at inspiring African leaders who have left positive legacies across the continent, and the meaning and importance of good leadership. He highlights ways we can learn from their admirable qualities for us to be more impactful leaders – in the world and in the workplace. Good leadership isn’t just a skill for special people, but a quality that all of us possess.
Refugee to Author: My Canadian Journey
In 1998, Michel and his family were forced to leave everything they had because of his father’s dedication to his human rights work. In this presentation, Michel speaks about the difficult journey refugees must take to survive, and his move to Canada where he was accepted and encouraged by a community that embraced him and helped him thrive.
Testimonials
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Last night went fabulously. We more than doubled our projected attendance, the theater was completely filled. It’s been one of the best lectures we’ve had here for quite awhile. Michel’s message was great, as I knew it would be having heard part of it at NACA central in October. All of the feedback I’ve heard so far has been positive, people liked hearing what he had to say. Working with Michel was certainly enjoyable for me. Thank you so much for working with us.
Courtney Current, Lecture Chair Missouri State University Student Activities Council
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It was fantastic! Michel was incredible—of course—and all the feedback I’ve received from staff and students alike has been highly complementary. What a fantastic day, thank you so much for your help! I think Michel made about 1,000 new friends today!
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Your speech has reinforced in me a strong will to do what’s right, to pursue greatness and to inspire others to care for one another. Your contribution to the human race will undoubtedly reign forever.
Media Gallery
Courtney Current, Lecture Chair Missouri State University Student Activities Council
