A Dream Team in Ohio: Resilience with Motivational Youth Speaker Eddie Cortés

What’s up, familia! I’m still feeling the good vibes from a recent tour stop. It was a powerful reminder that while my “I’m Possible” mission is deeply personal, it’s the students who make it an epic reality.

I recently had the privilege of bringing my I’m Possible School Assembly Program to St. Joseph Parish School in Sylvania, OH, and let me tell you, it was an absolute home run (pun intended). The energy was contagious, and the students were incredible. It was a day filled with laughter, big dreams, and an unforgettable lesson in resilience—all thanks to one amazing fourth grader.

A Dream Fulfilled

To open my school assembly program, I share a fun skit to help the students visualize my childhood dream of playing for the New York Yankees. I ask for a volunteer to be the pitcher, and one adorable fourth-grade girl with long blonde hair stepped up.

With a laugh, she tossed the “ball” my way, and I swung for the fences, pretending to hit a “home run.” The moment I did, her face lit up with the most radiant, pure-joy smile I’ve ever seen. She was literally jumping up and down.

That is the very essence of the “I’m Possible” mindset. It’s about empowering students to visualize their dreams and see that with courage, belief, and grit, they have everything they need to make those dreams a reality.

Cultivating an “I Can, I Will!” Mindset

My I’m Possible School Assembly Program is all about helping students to develop an “I can, I will!” mindset to face challenges. My goal is for students to see that their potential far exceeds any perceived limits. Through humor, personal stories, and interactive lessons, I help them understand that setbacks are not final—they are simply opportunities for growth.

We talk about the inner strength it takes to bounce back, to view obstacles as opportunities, and to nurture a positive self-worth so they know they are worthy of their dreams. This is how we teach resilience. That amazing fourth grader helped me get the ball rolling, and the students truly embraced the message. They left the assembly with the tools to reimagine the impossible and chase their own dreams with unwavering belief.

The impact of a high-energy, engaging school assembly program is powerful. Studies have shown they can boost confidence, develop resilience, and inspire students to pursue their passions. My presentations are designed to do exactly that, helping students:

• Boost Confidence: Students gain the belief in themselves to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

• Develop Resilience: Students learn to bounce back from setbacks and turn obstacles into opportunities.

• Embrace a Growth Mindset: Students cultivate a “I can, I will!” attitude that fosters a love of learning and a desire to continuously improve.

It’s all part of the “I’m Possible” impact—helping students to see their full potential and encouraging them to strive for greatness.

More Than a Program: A Privilege

I am incredibly grateful for the privilege to partner with schools to bring these messages to students. None of this would be possible without the amazing leadership at St. Joseph Parish School. A massive thank you to Principal Mr. Edwards, Assistant Principal Ms. Langenderfer, and Suzie Tsang of the PTO for the invitation and the wonderful conversation. Your dedication to your students is truly inspiring.

To all the students at St. Joseph Parish School, thank you for your energy and for helping me fulfill a dream. Remember, your potential is unlimited.

Until next time, my friends, dream BIG!

Invite Youth Motivational Speaker Eddie Cortés

To invite Eddie to be a guest speaker at your next elementary or middle school assembly program call (800) 799-1460 between 8 AM-5 PM CT from Monday-Friday.

Look for Top Youth Speaker Eddie Cortés in OH

In his a fun, interactive school assembly program, top youth speaker Eddie Cortés empowers elementary and middle school students to build resilience, a positive self-worth, and chase their “I’m Possible” dreams.

2025-2026 SCHOOL ASSEMBLY TOUR DATES

• Aug 1 – Stockton, CA
• Aug 15 – Fort Defiance, AZ
• Aug 15 – Fort Defiance, AZ
• Aug 18 – Saint Cloud, FL
• Aug 25 – Sylvania, OH
• Aug 27 – Lake Crystal, MN
• Sept. 4 – Luray, VA
• Sept. 4 – Luray, VA
• Sept. 4 – Rileyville, VA
• Sept. 5 – Shenandoah, VA
• Sept. 5 – Stanley, VA
• Sept. 18 – El Centro, CA
• Sept. 18 – El Centro, CA
• Sept. 18 – El Centro, CA
• Sept. 20 – Pittsburg, CA
• Sept. 30 – Las Vegas, NV
• Oct. 6 – Hardwick, MA
• Oct. 8 – Stanhope, NJ
• Oct. 8 – Stanhope, NJ 
• Oct. 9 – Eastchester, NY
• Oct. 10 – Niskayuna, NY
• Oct. 21 – Newark, DE
• Oct. 29 – Las Cruces, NM
• Dec. 5 – Adelanto, CA
• Jan. 26 – Waterford, CA
• Feb. 18 – Denair, CA

2024-2025 TOUR DATES

• Aug 29 – Mansfield, CT
• Aug 29 – Willington, CT
• Sept 9 – Grand Prairie, TX
• Sept 12 – Fresno, CA
• Sept 16 – Danbury, CT
• Sept 17 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 17 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 18 – Phillipsburg, NJ
• Sept 19 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 20 – Woonsocket, RI
• Sept 23 – Elk Grove, CA
• Sept 24 – Elk Grove, CA
• Sept 26 – Somerville, NJ
• Oct 2 – Rancho Cordova, CA
• Oct 4 – Rochester, NY
• Oct 8 – Rancho Cordova, CA
• Oct 9 – Idyllwild, CA
• Oct. 29 – Norfolk, VA
• Oct 30 – Medford, MA
• Oct 31 – Hoover, AL
• Nov 4 – Lewistown, IL
• Nov 4 – Cuba, IL
• Nov 15 – Kissimmee, FL
• Nov. 25 – Rutherford, NJ
• Jan 6 – Tinley Park, IL
• Jan 7 – Houston, TX
• Jan 9 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 10 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 11 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 12 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 13 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 13 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 14 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 15 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 16 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 24 – Escondido, CA
• Jan 28 – Racine, WI
• Jan 29 – Cypress, TX
• Feb 20 – Bedford, NH
• Feb 24 – Berlin, MD
• Feb 25 – Mount Laurel, NJ
• Feb 28 – Parkville, MO
• Mar 5 – Hilton Head Island, SC
• Mar 6 – Burns, OR
• Mar 10 – Lovelock, NV
• Mar 13 – Falls Church, VA
• Mar 18 – Tabor, IA
• Mar 20 – Panorama City, CA
• Mar 24 – El Monte, CA
• Mar 27 – Elsa, TX
• Mar 31 – San Antonio, TX
• Apr 2 – Newark, NJ
• Apr 2 – Newark, NJ
• Apr 7 – Georgetown, TX
• Apr 14 – Washington, NJ
• Apr 22 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 22 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 22 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 23 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 23 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 23 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 24 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 24 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 25 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 25 – Centreville, MD
• May 9 – Clarksburg, MD
• May 15 – Hamilton Square, NJ
• May 19 – Barbourville, KY
• May 21 – Maynard, MA
• May 22 – New York City, NY
• May 23 – Briarcliff Manor, NY
• Jun 2 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 2 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 3 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 3 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 5 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 5 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 6 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 6 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 11 – New Port Richey, FL
• Jun 17 – Kingsburg, CA
• Jul 14 – Charleston, IL
• Jul 15 – Charleston, IL
• Jul 16 – Middlesboro, KY
• Jul 17 – Middlesboro, KY

Invite Eddie Cortés to be a guest speaker at your elementary or middle school in Ohio. Click here or email info@eddiecortes.com to schedule a conversation to learn more about his school assembly program.

SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
TOPICS

• Youth Motivation & Inspiration
• Character Education
• Youth Leadership Development

AUDIENCES

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• Virtual School Assembly
• Digital Presentation

Resilience in Navajo Nation with Youth Motivational Speaker Eddie Cortés

This past week was a powerful one, taking the “I’m Possible School Tour” to the heart of the Navajo Nation. We’re talking about a tour stop that reminded me, once again, that true potential isn’t about where you come from or what you’ve been through—it’s about your ability to rise above it all.As a youth motivational speaker in AZ, it was an honor to be there.

I was so honored to spend a day in Fort Defiance, Arizona, bringing my I’m Possible School Assembly Program to two amazing schools: Window Rock High School and Tséhootsooí Middle School. The students were not only fun and enthusiastic, but also incredibly respectful and kind. From the moment I walked into each assembly, the energy was electric. You could feel that everyone was ready to engage, listen, and, most importantly, believe.

The Shoelace Challenge: A Masterclass in Resilience

One of the most powerful moments in my program is the “shoelace challenge.” It’s a simple, interactive task that, on the surface, is just about tying your shoes with one hand. But what it’s really about is much, much more.

I challenged a few students to complete the task with this unexpected twist, and a total of three students—two of them middle schoolers—completely crushed it. What was truly incredible was that two of them thought outside of the box and used their teeth to help them tie their shoes! It was brilliant, and a perfect example of how to reimagine the impossible.

During the challenge, I highlighted a core message of the assembly: You’re not defined by your successes or your failures, but by the choice to bounce back from failure—by the decision to learn something and try again. This is the heartbeat of resilience.

That’s a message that’s deeply personal to me, and it’s the core of my school assembly program. It’s rooted in my own journey of learning that my potential wasn’t limited by my own face plants, epic failures, or other people’s opinions. I learned to rise above my circumstances, and that ability to believe is what changed everything for me. It’s what I love about being a youth motivational speaker; seeing students have those same a-ha moments.

The high-fives and the enthusiastic energy at the end of the presentations were amazing. Several high schoolers even asked when I would be back. To a motivational youth speaker, there’s no better feedback than that.

More Than an Assembly: Human Connections and Fried Bread

Beyond the assemblies, this tour stop was packed with personal highlights that will stick with me forever. The hospitality of the staff at the Fort Defiance Indian Hospital Board was truly next-level. Ahéhéé (thank you) to Naomi of FDIHB, Principal Geraldine of Window Rock High, and Principal Leona of Tséhootsooí Middle for the incredible invite. Shoutout to Jacob and Jaci for the rich conversations, the sight-seeing and that fried bread 😆.

Oh. My. Goodness. Let me tell you it was delicious. You’ve got to have it with honey and a pinch of salt! What?! It was absolutely amazing.

These moments—the conversations, the food, the scenic views—are all part of the “I’m Possible” experience. They remind me that behind every powerful school assembly program and every shared story, there are real people with incredible hearts, ready to connect. I am grateful for them.

Tséhootsooí Middle and Window Rock High, don’t forget that you are worthy of yours dreams and can reimagine the impossible. Your potential is not limited by your face plants, epic failures, or other people’s opinions but by your ability to rise above your circumstances.

To all the students I met: keep believing in yourselves. You are full of possibilities, and you are possible.

Until next time, my friends, dream BIG!

Invite Youth Motivational Speaker Eddie Cortés

To invite Eddie to be a guest speaker at your next elementary or middle school assembly program call (800) 799-1460 between 8 AM-5 PM CT from Monday-Friday.

Look for Top Youth Speaker Eddie Cortés in AZ

In his a fun, interactive school assembly program, top youth speaker Eddie Cortés empowers elementary and middle school students to build resilience, a positive self-worth, and chase their “I’m Possible” dreams.

2025-2026 SCHOOL ASSEMBLY TOUR DATES

• Aug 1 – Stockton, CA
• Aug 15 – Fort Defiance, AZ
• Aug 15 – Fort Defiance, AZ
• Aug 18 – Saint Cloud, FL
• Aug 25 – Sylvania, OH
• Aug 27 – Lake Crystal, MN
• Sept. 4 – Luray, VA
• Sept. 4 – Luray, VA
• Sept. 4 – Rileyville, VA
• Sept. 5 – Shenandoah, VA
• Sept. 5 – Stanley, VA
• Sept. 20 – Martinez, CA
• Sept. 22 – St. Cloud, AZ
• Sept. 23 – St. Cloud, AZ
• Sept. 24 – St. Cloud, AZ
• Sept. 30 – Las Vegas, NV
• Oct. 6 – Hardwick, MA
• Oct. 9 – Eastchester, NY
• Oct. 10 –Niskayuna, NY
• Dec. 5 – Adelanto, CA
• Jan. 26 – Waterford, CA
• Feb. 18 – Denair, CA

2024-2025 TOUR DATES

• Aug 29 – Mansfield, CT
• Aug 29 – Willington, CT
• Sept 9 – Grand Prairie, TX
• Sept 12 – Fresno, CA
• Sept 16 – Danbury, CT
• Sept 17 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 17 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 18 – Phillipsburg, NJ
• Sept 19 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 20 – Woonsocket, RI
• Sept 23 – Elk Grove, CA
• Sept 24 – Elk Grove, CA
• Sept 26 – Somerville, NJ
• Oct 2 – Rancho Cordova, CA
• Oct 4 – Rochester, NY
• Oct 8 – Rancho Cordova, CA
• Oct 9 – Idyllwild, CA
• Oct. 29 – Norfolk, VA
• Oct 30 – Medford, MA
• Oct 31 – Hoover, AL
• Nov 4 – Lewistown, IL
• Nov 4 – Cuba, IL
• Nov 15 – Kissimmee, FL
• Nov. 25 – Rutherford, NJ
• Jan 6 – Tinley Park, IL
• Jan 7 – Houston, TX
• Jan 9 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 10 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 11 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 12 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 13 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 13 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 14 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 15 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 16 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 24 – Escondido, CA
• Jan 28 – Racine, WI
• Jan 29 – Cypress, TX
• Feb 20 – Bedford, NH
• Feb 24 – Berlin, MD
• Feb 25 – Mount Laurel, NJ
• Feb 28 – Parkville, MO
• Mar 5 – Hilton Head Island, SC
• Mar 6 – Burns, OR
• Mar 10 – Lovelock, NV
• Mar 13 – Falls Church, VA
• Mar 18 – Tabor, IA
• Mar 20 – Panorama City, CA
• Mar 24 – El Monte, CA
• Mar 27 – Elsa, TX
• Mar 31 – San Antonio, TX
• Apr 2 – Newark, NJ
• Apr 2 – Newark, NJ
• Apr 7 – Georgetown, TX
• Apr 14 – Washington, NJ
• Apr 22 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 22 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 22 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 23 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 23 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 23 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 24 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 24 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 25 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 25 – Centreville, MD
• May 9 – Clarksburg, MD
• May 15 – Hamilton Square, NJ
• May 19 – Barbourville, KY
• May 21 – Maynard, MA
• May 22 – New York City, NY
• May 23 – Briarcliff Manor, NY
• Jun 2 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 2 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 3 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 3 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 5 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 5 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 6 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 6 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 11 – New Port Richey, FL
• Jun 17 – Kingsburg, CA
• Jul 14 – Charleston, IL
• Jul 15 – Charleston, IL
• Jul 16 – Middlesboro, KY
• Jul 17 – Middlesboro, KY

Invite Eddie Cortés to be a guest speaker at your elementary or middle school in Arizona. Click here or email info@eddiecortes.com to schedule a conversation to learn more about his school assembly program.

SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
TOPICS

• Youth Motivation & Inspiration
• Character Education
• Youth Leadership Development

AUDIENCES

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• Virtual School Assembly
• Digital Presentation

I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve been invited to join Varsity Brands as a featured speaker on their prestigious 2025-2026 Believe In You Speaking Tour! This national tour is dedicated to empowering students with messages of resilience, self-worth, and proactive mental health.

Why this journey, and why now?

It all started with a kid who felt anything but possible. My mission is fueled by my own story. As a middle schooler, harsh words and a difficult home life shattered my dreams and my self-worth. I felt small, insignificant, and truly believed I wasn’t “enough.” It took a long journey to rebuild that belief. That’s why my I’M POSSIBLE assembly was created – to help K-8 students discover their I’M POSSIBLE truth – that they are always: More CAPABLE than they fear, More WORTHY than they doubt, More RESILIENT than they imagine.

What This National Recognition Means for Your School & My “I’M POSSIBLE” Assembly:

Being selected by Varsity Brands, a true leader in championing youth empowerment, to share my message on their Believe In You Speaking Tour alongside an esteemed lineup of voices is a profound honor. More than that, it underscores the proven impact and critical need for the I’M POSSIBLE assembly program that I bring directly to schools like yours.

This national platform doesn’t change my core mission; it amplifies it. It highlights the effectiveness of my I’M POSSIBLE Mindset approach – a total game-changer that helps students flip the script from “That’s impossible for me” to “Actually, I’M making it POSSIBLE!” It’s about empowering them to build their I’M POSSIBLE Resilience by looking in the mirror and truly owning their truth:

• They are More CAPABLE than they fear (of doing hard things).
• They are More WORTHY than they doubt (of big dreams, just because they breathe!).
• They are More RESILIENT than they imagine (able to bounce back stronger and persevere).

And when students truly own these truths, they unlock the most empowering realization of all: I’M POSSIBLE! – absolutely FULL of possibilities! This directly fuels lasting resilience, unshakeable self-worth, a growth mindset, and essential SEL skills.

Could this be the right time to bring the I’M POSSIBLE Mindset to your students?

If you’re looking for a deeply engaging and effective way to support your K-8 students’ social-emotional growth, this news might just be the nudge to explore (or re-explore!) what my I’M POSSIBLE assembly program can offer your school community.

Let’s empower your students to overcome obstacles, believe in themselves, and truly flourish.

To learn more about my I’M POSSIBLE assembly program and how we can partner to inspire your students, please visit TOP YOUTH SPEAKERS: https://topyouthspeakers.com/speakers-topics/eddie-cortes

Invite Youth Motivational Speaker Eddie Cortés

To invite Eddie to be a guest speaker at your next elementary or middle school assembly program call (800) 799-1460 between 8 AM-5 PM CT from Monday-Friday.

Look for Top Youth Speaker Eddie Cortés

In his a fun, interactive school assembly program, top youth speaker Eddie Cortés empowers elementary and middle school students to build resilience, a positive self-worth, and chase their “I’m Possible” dreams.

2024-2025 SCHOOL ASSEMBLY TOUR DATES

• Aug 29 – Mansfield, CT
• Aug 29 – Willington, CT
• Sept 9 – Grand Prairie, TX
• Sept 12 – Fresno, CA
• Sept 16 – Danbury, CT
• Sept 17 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 17 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 18 – Phillipsburg, NJ
• Sept 19 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 20 – Woonsocket, RI
• Sept 23 – Elk Grove, CA
• Sept 24 – Elk Grove, CA
• Sept 26 – Somerville, NJ
• Oct 2 – Rancho Cordova, CA
• Oct 4 – Rochester, NY
• Oct 8 – Rancho Cordova, CA
• Oct 9 – Idyllwild, CA
• Oct. 29 – Norfolk, VA
• Oct 30 – Medford, MA
• Oct 31 – Hoover, AL
• Nov 4 – Lewistown, IL
• Nov 4 – Cuba, IL
• Nov 15 – Kissimmee, FL
• Nov. 25 – Rutherford, NJ
• Jan 6 – Tinley Park, IL
• Jan 7 – Houston, TX
• Jan 9 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 10 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 11 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 12 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 13 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 13 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 14 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 15 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 16 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 24 – Escondido, CA
• Jan 28 – Racine, WI
• Jan 29 – Cypress, TX
• Feb 20 – Bedford, NH
• Feb 24 – Berlin, MD
• Feb 25 – Mount Laurel, NJ
• Feb 28 – Parkville, MO
• Mar 5 – Hilton Head Island, SC
• Mar 6 – Burns, OR
• Mar 10 – Lovelock, NV
• Mar 13 – Falls Church, VA
• Mar 18 – Tabor, IA
• Mar 20 – Panorama City, CA
• Mar 24 – El Monte, CA
• Mar 27 – Elsa, TX
• Mar 31 – San Antonio, TX
• Apr 2 – Newark, NJ
• Apr 2 – Newark, NJ
• Apr 7 – Georgetown, TX
• Apr 22 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 22 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 23 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 23 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 24 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 24 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 24 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 25 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 25 – Centreville, MD
• May 9 – Clarksburg, MD
• May 15 – Hamilton Square, NJ
• May 19 – Barbourville, KY
• May 21 – Maynard, MA
• May 22 – New York, NY
• May 23 – Briarcliff Manor, NY
• Jun 2 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 2 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 3 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 3 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 5 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 5 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 6 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 6 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 11 – New Port Richey, FL
• Jun 17 – Kingsburg, CA
• July 9 – Middlesboro, KY
• July 10 – Middlesboro, KY
• July 11 – Middlesboro, KY
• Jul 14 – Charleston, IL
• Jul 14 – Charleston, IL
• Jul 16 – Middlesboro, KY
• Jul 17 – Middlesboro, KY
• Aug 1 – Stockton, CA
• Aug 15 – Fort Defiance, AZ
• Aug 15 – Fort Defiance, AZ
• Aug 18 – Saint Cloud, FL
• Aug 25 – Sylvania, OH
• Sept. 2 – Le Roy, NY
• Sept. 4 – Luray, VA
• Sept. 4 – Luray, VA
• Sept. 4 – Rileyville, VA
• Sept. 5 – Shenandoah, VA
• Sept. 5 – Stanley, VA
• Sept. 20 – Martinez, CA
• Oct. 6 – Hardwick, MA
• Oct. 9 – Eastchester, NY
• Nov. 2 – Jefferson City, MO
• Dec. 5 – Adelanto, CA
• Jan. 26 – Waterford, CA
• Feb. 18 – Denair, CA
• March 15 – Jefferson City, MO

Invite Eddie Cortés to be a guest speaker at your elementary or middle school. Click here or email info@eddiecortes.com to schedule a conversation to learn more about his school assembly program.

SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
TOPICS

• Youth Motivation & Inspiration
• Character Education
• Youth Leadership Development

AUDIENCES

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• Virtual School Assembly
• Digital Presentation

What’s up, everyone! Just wrapped up an absolutely unforgettable experience at the Annual Cebrin Goodman Teen Institute (CGTI) Leadership Conference, and my heart is overflowing with good vibes. This was a deep dive into youth leadership development, prevention, and empowerment, and trust me, the students showed up and showed out!

We were rocking with Grades 7-12, working with around 30 incredible student leaders in each session. And let me tell you, these young people are truly the future.

Tech Troubles? Not on Our Watch!

First, a huge shout-out to my tech heroes at CGTI! You know how it goes – sometimes technical challenges pop up, and my equipment decided to have a little “moment.” But seriously, the tech team were my absolute heroes, swooping in and figuring out all my tech issues like absolute pros. Their quick thinking and calm under pressure ensured that the show went on without a hitch, allowing us to deliver the powerful messages without missing a beat. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

“Who Said I Can’t?”: Reimagining Dreams with Game-Changers!

The core of our time at CGTI revolved around our “Who Said I Can’t? Reimagining Your Dreams” workshops. We ran these twice, and each time, the energy was off the charts!

This workshop is all about flipping the script on doubt and turning up the volume on your dreams. We’re here to help these incredible students smash limitations, unleash their inner game-changer, and design a future where they truly reimagine what’s possible for THEM.

Imagine a room buzzing with anticipation. That’s what it was like! These students were incredibly engaged, interacting constantly, and diving headfirst into meaningful conversations. We threw various individual and group challenges their way, and it was pure magic watching them problem-solve and game plan together.

Here’s a peek at what we explored:

• From ‘Ugh!’ to ‘Watch Me!’: We talked about shifting your mindset, amplifying that ‘can-do’ voice, and proving what’s truly possible when you genuinely believe in your potential. Seeing their eyes light up as they realized their own power was amazing.
• Different? That’s Your SUPERPOWER!: This was a huge one! We celebrated what makes each of them unique, emphasizing that their individuality is the secret ingredient to unlocking their full potential and achieving dreams their way.
• Reimagine the Impossible: The core message! When you learn to reimagine the impossible, the impossible becomes I’M POSSIBLE. We equipped them with the mindset and tools to make those bold dreams a reality.

The learning outcomes for these student leaders were truly evident: they were boosting their self-efficacy & motivation, developing increased confidence in their ability to pursue ambitious goals, and starting to articulate compelling visions for their “I’M POSSIBLE” story. They were also cultivating serious resilience, strengthening their capacity to approach academic, personal, and leadership challenges with a proactive, adaptable, and optimistic outlook. By the end, they were activating a serious ‘can-do’ mindset, ready to translate inspiration into actionable steps and champion their reimagined dreams.

Moments of Raw Courage: The I’m Possible Signature Keynote

Beyond the workshops, I delivered my “I’m Possible Signature Keynote” focusing on resilience and self-worth. This is where things got really real, really fast.

The staff and volunteers at CGTI were incredibly kind and helpful throughout the entire conference, creating such a supportive environment. And the student leaders themselves? They were amazing – kind with their words, full of high-fives, and incredibly encouraging, especially when I hit those initial tech snags. Their engagement during both the workshops and the keynotes was phenomenal.

But the most profound moments came after the keynote. Several students, showing immense bravery, came forward to share their personal struggles. As I shared my own story about my father’s verbal and physical abuse and ultimate abandonment, it resonated deeply with them. To witness these young individuals, after all they’ve been through, open up and share their vulnerabilities with me was truly humbling. It underscored the power of shared experience and the profound need for these kinds of conversations around resilience and self-worth. These moments are why I do what I do – to help create spaces where students feel safe enough to heal and grow.

A Heartfelt Thank You!

A huge, heartfelt thank you to Ashley Webb, the entire tech team, and everyone at the Annual Cebrin Goodman Teen Institute (CGTI) for organizing such a vital youth leadership development, prevention, and empowerment conference. Your dedication to these young people is truly inspiring.

This stop on the “I’m Possible School Tour” was a powerful reminder of the incredible strength and potential within every young person. We’re not just talking about dreams; we’re actively helping them unleash their inner game-changer and live their “I’M POSSIBLE” story.

Stay tuned for more updates as the tour continues to inspire and empower!

Invite Youth Motivational Speaker Eddie Cortés

To invite Eddie to be a guest speaker at your next elementary or middle school assembly program call (800) 799-1460 between 8 AM-5 PM CT from Monday-Friday.

Look for Top Youth Speaker Eddie Cortés in IL

In his a fun, interactive school assembly program, top youth speaker Eddie Cortés empowers elementary and middle school students to build resilience, a positive self-worth, and chase their “I’m Possible” dreams.

2024-2025 SCHOOL ASSEMBLY TOUR DATES

• Aug 29 – Mansfield, CT
• Aug 29 – Willington, CT
• Sept 9 – Grand Prairie, TX
• Sept 12 – Fresno, CA
• Sept 16 – Danbury, CT
• Sept 17 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 17 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 18 – Phillipsburg, NJ
• Sept 19 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 20 – Woonsocket, RI
• Sept 23 – Elk Grove, CA
• Sept 24 – Elk Grove, CA
• Sept 26 – Somerville, NJ
• Oct 2 – Rancho Cordova, CA
• Oct 4 – Rochester, NY
• Oct 8 – Rancho Cordova, CA
• Oct 9 – Idyllwild, CA
• Oct. 29 – Norfolk, VA
• Oct 30 – Medford, MA
• Oct 31 – Hoover, AL
• Nov 4 – Lewistown, IL
• Nov 4 – Cuba, IL
• Nov 15 – Kissimmee, FL
• Nov. 25 – Rutherford, NJ
• Jan 6 – Tinley Park, IL
• Jan 7 – Houston, TX
• Jan 9 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 10 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 11 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 12 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 13 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 13 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 14 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 15 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 16 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 24 – Escondido, CA
• Jan 28 – Racine, WI
• Jan 29 – Cypress, TX
• Feb 20 – Bedford, NH
• Feb 24 – Berlin, MD
• Feb 25 – Mount Laurel, NJ
• Feb 28 – Parkville, MO
• Mar 5 – Hilton Head Island, SC
• Mar 6 – Burns, OR
• Mar 10 – Lovelock, NV
• Mar 13 – Falls Church, VA
• Mar 18 – Tabor, IA
• Mar 20 – Panorama City, CA
• Mar 24 – El Monte, CA
• Mar 27 – Elsa, TX
• Mar 31 – San Antonio, TX
• Apr 2 – Newark, NJ
• Apr 2 – Newark, NJ
• Apr 7 – Georgetown, TX
• Apr 22 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 22 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 23 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 23 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 24 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 24 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 24 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 25 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 25 – Centreville, MD
• May 9 – Clarksburg, MD
• May 15 – Hamilton Square, NJ
• May 19 – Barbourville, KY
• May 21 – Maynard, MA
• May 22 – New York, NY
• May 23 – Briarcliff Manor, NY
• Jun 2 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 2 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 3 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 3 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 5 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 5 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 6 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 6 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 11 – New Port Richey, FL
• Jun 17 – Kingsburg, CA
• July 9 – Middlesboro, KY
• July 10 – Middlesboro, KY
• July 11 – Middlesboro, KY
• Jul 14 – Charleston, IL
• Jul 14 – Charleston, IL
• Jul 16 – Middlesboro, KY
• Jul 17 – Middlesboro, KY
• Aug 1 – Stockton, CA
• Aug 15 – Fort Defiance, AZ
• Aug 15 – Fort Defiance, AZ
• Aug 18 – Saint Cloud, FL
• Aug 25 – Sylvania, OH
• Sept. 2 – Le Roy, NY
• Sept. 4 – Luray, VA
• Sept. 4 – Luray, VA
• Sept. 4 – Rileyville, VA
• Sept. 5 – Shenandoah, VA
• Sept. 5 – Stanley, VA
• Sept. 20 – Martinez, CA
• Oct. 6 – Hardwick, MA
• Oct. 9 – Eastchester, NY
• Nov. 2 – Jefferson City, MO
• Dec. 5 – Adelanto, CA
• Jan. 26 – Waterford, CA
• Feb. 18 – Denair, CA
• March 15 – Jefferson City, MO 

Invite Eddie Cortés to be a guest speaker at your elementary or middle school in Illinois. Click here or email info@eddiecortes.com to schedule a conversation to learn more about his school assembly program.

SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
TOPICS

• Youth Motivation & Inspiration
• Character Education
• Youth Leadership Development

AUDIENCES

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• Virtual School Assembly
• Digital Presentation

What’s good, everyone! Your favorite motivational youth speaker, Eddie Cortés (that’s me!), just wrapped up an incredible run through Kentucky, and let me tell you, the “I’m Possible School Tour” is on fire! We’ve been sharing powerful messages and connecting with amazing students through our “Paradigm Shift” workshops, and the impact has been truly inspiring.

Young Minds, Bright Futures: K-5 Superstars at Southeast Kentucky!

First stop on this incredible journey was the Elementary Summer Camp at Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College, from July 9th to 11th. And let me tell you, these K-5 students were absolutely phenomenal! From the moment our fun, interactive workshops began, their energy was electric – pure enthusiasm and curiosity radiating from every single one of them.

You want to talk about teamwork? These young learners were masters of collaboration. We presented them with games and puzzles designed to challenge their thinking, and they genuinely impressed us. Watching them help each other, offer encouragement, and celebrate every small victory together was truly inspiring. It wasn’t about who finished first; it was about how they all worked to achieve a common goal. This really brought to life those essential 21st Century Skills like communication and teamwork, showing their natural ability to connect and problem-solve together.

But we weren’t just playing games. We delved into some really important topics through our active learning sessions. We addressed navigating social media responsibly, understanding and preventing bullying, open discussions around mental health, and even introductory conversations about drug prevention. Their questions were thoughtful, their insights mature, and their willingness to share in a safe and supportive environment was truly commendable. These young people are already demonstrating strong Social-Emotional Learning, building self-awareness and developing empathy. And bravery? We saw several students step up to lead discussions and guide their peers, showing clear signs of being future culture changers in their schools and communities.

Middle School Momentum: Middlesboro’s Next Generation of Leaders!

Right after our elementary experience, we seamlessly transitioned to Middlesboro Middle School on July 16th and 17th for their Middle School Camp. This camp was specifically designed to prepare upcoming middle schoolers for their big transition, and I can confidently say they are more than ready!

Our “Paradigm Shift” workshops truly shined here, focusing on equipping these students with the tools they need to succeed in a new and sometimes challenging environment. We dove deeper into the core concepts of resilience, emphasizing that bouncing back from setbacks isn’t just possible, but a crucial skill for life. We had vital discussions about mental health – not just identifying struggles, but also developing coping strategies and understanding the importance of seeking help. The sessions on motivation and inspiration were powerful, helping them tap into their inner drive and set meaningful goals for the upcoming school year.

Just like with the younger group, the emphasis on fun, interactive workshops was key. We tackled social media challenges head-on, discussing how to be responsible digital citizens and navigate the complexities of online interactions. The conversations around bullying prevention were incredibly insightful, with students sharing their perspectives and brainstorming strategies to create a more inclusive school environment. And of course, drug prevention remained a critical topic, providing them with the knowledge and confidence to make healthy choices as they enter middle school.

The students at Middlesboro Middle School were equally impressive. They demonstrated incredible intelligence and brought a level of critical thinking to our discussions that was truly inspiring. Their eagerness to engage, share their thoughts, and listen respectfully to their peers was a testament to their strong character. They truly embraced the concepts of responsibility and teamwork, which are so vital for navigating middle school successfully. It was clear that the camp was doing an amazing job of fostering their Social-Emotional Learning, helping them build meaningful relationships and strengthen their emotional regulation. Seeing them actively helping each other solve problems and collaborating on challenges was clear evidence that these are the future leaders and problem-solvers. They are ready to be brave culture changers and lead their peers, which is exactly what our programs aim to cultivate.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Kentucky Partners!

None of this impactful work would be possible without the incredible dedication and vision of some truly amazing individuals. A massive, heartfelt thank you goes out to Evelyn, Veronica, and Jason for their unwavering support, meticulous planning, and exceptional hospitality. Their commitment to their students and their community is truly inspiring, and it was an honor to partner with them on these vital workshops.

The “I’m Possible” Mission Continues!

Stay tuned for more updates as the “I’m Possible School Tour” moves forward! We’re bringing the power of resilience to more schools and more students, empowering them with the I’m Possible, motivation, and skills they need to navigate their world with confidence. Remember, whether it’s through our motivational youth speaker programs or dedicated workshops, we’re here to help shape the leaders of tomorrow!

Until next time, keep striving for what’s possible!

Eddie Cortés

Invite Youth Motivational Speaker Eddie Cortés

To invite Eddie to be a guest speaker at your next elementary or middle school assembly program call (800) 799-1460 between 8 AM-5 PM CT from Monday-Friday.

Look for Top Youth Speaker Eddie Cortés in KY

In his a fun, interactive school assembly program, top youth speaker Eddie Cortés empowers elementary and middle school students to build resilience, a positive self-worth, and chase their “I’m Possible” dreams.

2024-2025 SCHOOL ASSEMBLY TOUR DATES

• Aug 29 – Mansfield, CT
• Aug 29 – Willington, CT
• Sept 9 – Grand Prairie, TX
• Sept 12 – Fresno, CA
• Sept 16 – Danbury, CT
• Sept 17 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 17 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 18 – Phillipsburg, NJ
• Sept 19 – Waterbury, CT
• Sept 20 – Woonsocket, RI
• Sept 23 – Elk Grove, CA
• Sept 24 – Elk Grove, CA
• Sept 26 – Somerville, NJ
• Oct 2 – Rancho Cordova, CA
• Oct 4 – Rochester, NY
• Oct 8 – Rancho Cordova, CA
• Oct 9 – Idyllwild, CA
• Oct. 29 – Norfolk, VA
• Oct 30 – Medford, MA
• Oct 31 – Hoover, AL
• Nov 4 – Lewistown, IL
• Nov 4 – Cuba, IL
• Nov 15 – Kissimmee, FL
• Nov. 25 – Rutherford, NJ
• Jan 6 – Tinley Park, IL
• Jan 7 – Houston, TX
• Jan 9 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 10 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 11 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 12 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Jan 13 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 13 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 14 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 15 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 16 – Waukegan, IL
• Jan 24 – Escondido, CA
• Jan 28 – Racine, WI
• Jan 29 – Cypress, TX
• Feb 20 – Bedford, NH
• Feb 24 – Berlin, MD
• Feb 25 – Mount Laurel, NJ
• Feb 28 – Parkville, MO
• Mar 5 – Hilton Head Island, SC
• Mar 6 – Burns, OR
• Mar 10 – Lovelock, NV
• Mar 13 – Falls Church, VA
• Mar 18 – Tabor, IA
• Mar 20 – Panorama City, CA
• Mar 24 – El Monte, CA
• Mar 27 – Elsa, TX
• Mar 31 – San Antonio, TX
• Apr 2 – Newark, NJ
• Apr 2 – Newark, NJ
• Apr 7 – Georgetown, TX
• Apr 14 – Washington, NJ
• Apr 22 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 22 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 22 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 23 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 23 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 23 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 24 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 24 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 25 – Centreville, MD
• Apr 25 – Centreville, MD
• May 9 – Clarksburg, MD
• May 15 – Hamilton Square, NJ
• May 19 – Barbourville, KY
• May 21 – Maynard, MA
• May 22 – New York City, NY
• May 23 – Briarcliff Manor, NY
• Jun 2 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 2 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 3 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 3 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 5 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 5 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 6 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 6 – Newark, NJ
• Jun 11 – New Port Richey, FL
• Jun 17 – Kingsburg, CA
• Jul 14 – Charleston, IL
• Jul 15 – Charleston, IL
• Jul 16 – Middlesboro, KY
• Jul 17 – Middlesboro, KY
• Jul 28 – Virtual – EB Academics
• Aug 25 – Sylvania, OH
• Sept. 2 – Le Roy, NY
• Sept. 4 – Luray, VA
• Sept. 4 – Luray, VA
• Sept. 4 – Rileyville, VA
• Sept. 4 – Shenandoah, VA
• Sept. 4 – Stanley, VA
• Dec. 5 – Adelanto, CA

Invite Eddie Cortés to be a guest speaker at your elementary or middle school in Kentucky. Click here or email info@eddiecortes.com to schedule a conversation to learn more about his school assembly program.

SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
TOPICS

• Youth Motivation & Inspiration
• Character Education
• Youth Leadership Development

AUDIENCES

• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School
• Virtual School Assembly
• Digital Presentation