Presentations

INSPIRING YOUNG HEARTS AND MINDS

Janet's presentation to schools and libraries is based on her award-winning books that tell extraordinary, true stories of children making a difference to create a better world. She encourages young people to feel deeply—act responsibly and wisely—and think critically.

“We must remember that intelligence alone is not enough.
Intelligence plus character –that is the goal of a true education.”
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

With all that’s happening in the world today and the challenges facing the future, Janet believes students have a growing desire and an important role to play in finding solutions. Many young people, who are increasingly aware of global issues, are no longer content to sit on the sidelines and wait until they are ‘grown-up’. Students are receiving a better education in environmental issues, peace and conflict resolution, character development, and are encouraged to become active participants in their community. Students have responded to her presentations with remarkable insight and understanding, leaving feeling empowered and hopeful.

“No one has yet realized the wealth of sympathy,
the kindness and generosity hidden in the soul of a child.
The effort of every true education should be
to unlock that treasure.”
Emma Goldman, social justice activist

In her presentation Janet:

Focuses on social justice and motivates activism.
Encourages character development.
Stimulates audience discussion.
Gives a brief art lesson.
Sketches a portrait for you to keep.
Demonstrates the creative process--from concept to publication--including the challenges, the importance of experimentation, trial and error, and a positive attitude
Features a book or subject relevant to a special occasion or time.
Includes a question and answer time

Janet's PowerPoint slide presentations can be customized to suit your particular situation, taking into consideration the ages of the audience, the length of time available, and the venue. Janet also gives drawing workshops for children, young adults, and teachers, and keynote addresses.

Themes:

Shannen and the Dream for a School

Raises awareness about First Nations injustice and inequality in education.
The history of the original settlers in the James Bay area and their relations with the new settlers and the Canadian government
Residential Schools
The truth about Aboriginal history and treaty rights.
The life of a family on a remote northern reserve.
The systemic problems and injustice in Canadian Aboriginal policies.

Our Earth: How Kids are Saving the Planet

Raises awareness of environmental justice issues such as, climate change, pollution, bio-diversity, endangered species, food, water, and sustainability.
The power of youth. Working together
Hope. Optimism. Making positive choices

One Peace: True Stories of Young Activists

Raises awareness of issues such as child soldiers, anti-nuclear activism, landmines, refugees.
Advocates the importance of peace education, non-violent conflict resolution, volunteerism, civic responsibility, and global spirituality.
The power of one. Respect ,caring and empathy begins with each individual.
Kindness and compassion

Audience numbers are flexible, 75 is preferred.

Grades 3 to 12 are the most successful, but age appropriate and shorter presentations for younger children can be accommodated.

Location: The school library is preferred. The gymnasium would require a microphone.

Equipment: A computer with an LCD projector and screen is required.

Presentation rates:
One 60 minute session: $300
Two sessions: $500.00
Three sessions: $720
Four sessions: $925
Keynote for a larger audience: $500
Not including HST, plus standard mileage (.45 per/km)
from Eden Mills, near Guelph, Ontario.
contact Janet at 519 856-2811
janetwilson@xplornet.ca
Subsidies from the Writers' Union of Canada are available.
Applications for the funding period September 1, 2011 to March 31, 2012 are available http://www.writersunion.ca/rd_writersintheschoolsinfo.asp