Wali Shah

Discipline: Storytelling
Homebase: Mississauga
Regions Available: Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley &, Howe Sound, Vancouver Island Lower, Vancouver Island Mid, Vancouver Island North, Interior, North, Remote, Kootenays, Virtual
Languages: English
Themes: Mental Health, Anti-Bullying
Grant Eligibility: Eligible for 40% AIE

Wali is an advocate for issues such as inclusion, leadership, bullying prevention, and mental health. 15 years old, and labelled at-risk, a teacher introduced him to poetry. Since then, it became an avenue for Wali to share his story. Being Muslim, being an immigrant, and being a teenager wasn't easy, but with the right mentors and a coping strategy, it became easier. Now, Wali speaks about the power of mentorship & self-expression. He's one of the faces of Bell Let's Talk, WE Day, and RBC's Top 25 Canadian Immigrants. He's even performed for President Barack Obama.

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Performance(s)

Rhythm & Poetry

School Year: 23-24
Discipline: Storytelling
Offered Languages: English
Grade Suitability: K - 12
Duration: 45-60 mins.
Capacity: 500
Tech Requirements: Wireless Mic, Projector, Sound System, Zooms/Meets/Teams for virtual
Available Formats: In Person, Virtual

In his keynote, Wali shares poetry and stories pertaining to contemporary social issues. Wali writes on, and speaks to, what matters to students and teachers right now. This powerful and informative keynote stems from Wali's personal narrative growing up as a minority, and dealing with bullying, anxiety, and depression as a student. Themes include: Mental Wellness, Toxic Masculinity, Diversity and Inclusion, Leadership, and Asian Heritage. This show is intended for grades 4-12. Wali shifts this talk depending on his audience, to a focus about embracing leadership and setting an example & asking good questions for senior grades, and listening intently and following good examples for junior grades. Poetry performance pieces are shared throughout the presentation, and are based on relevant and timely issues such as: BLM, COVID-19, and the use of social media. The presentation is followed up with an opportunity for Q & A.

Workshop(s)

Expression Session

School Year: 23-24
Discipline: Storytelling, Spoken Word, Writing
Offered Languages: English
Grade Suitability: 4 - 12
Duration: 45-60 min
Capacity: 60
Tech Requirements: All Virtual Platforms OR Devices/Pen/Paper for in-person sessions
Available Formats: In Person, Virtual

The purpose of this session is to use creative writing to bring to life basic literary techniques and devices, while building strong, meaningful relationships with students. The goal of the spoken word is to look beyond what we see on the outside, or on social media, and respect each other's stories on a deeper level. Students will experiment with the art form of spoken word, and are encouraged to to express their narratives, while using as a coping strategy when struggling with bullying, or mental well-being. This program is will cover free-writing, reverse (palindrome) poetry, rhyme schemes, and more. Students will write individual pieces, and have the opportunity to share with their peers at the end of the session.

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Testimonials & Reviews

I heard Wali share his keynote presentation at an event dedicated to healthy relationships and masculinity, and the first thing I thought was, "he would be perfect for our Orientation Week". Wali is not only a great story-teller and compelling performer, he's an incredible person. Wali brings an amazing amount of energy and honesty to his performances that will leave you wanting more and more. Anthony Massi - Wilfred Laurier University Orientation Committee

Inspiring and engaging youth can be challenging through COVID19, however Wali managed to connect with our youth virtually in a way few could and empower them to lean into the learning of the Youth Aspire Summit Conference. We look forward to bringing him back to our summit when we are all together again in person Akosua Alagaratnam, Executive Director, First Work | Ontario's Youth Employment Network

We had the pleasure of hosting Wali Shah for two sessions in the fall.​ Both presentations were very well received by students and staff. Wali is a gifted presenter who uses his words and poetry to bring important issues to light. The writing workshops he did after the events were brilliant! His ability to connect with kids and get them to open up and share their narratives through poetry was impressive. Shazia Sheikh, Equity Resource Teacher, Peel District School Board

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