JR LaRose

Keynote Speaker | Vancouver, British Columbia

Cfl Champion
Resilience | Equity & Indigenous Inclusion Expert

JR LaRose Expertise Cultural Diversity, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Inclusive Leadership, Mindset & Goal Accomplishment, Mental Health, Health Performance, Influence & Negotiation, Indigenous and Athletes & Sports.

JR LaRose

About JR LaRose

JR LaRose is First Nation keynote speaker, 2011 grey cup champion, Indigenous ambassador for Aboriginal peoples, communities across Canada. LaRose is an accomplished speaker speaking and facilitating over 400 presentations throughout Canada and since 2008. He shares his message of diversity & inclusion, leadership, resilience, change, and mindset determination to help others meet the challenges of change and systematic oppression head-on. He is an Indigenous advocate who grew up with a mother who faced challenges of addiction and abuse as Residential School survivor. A six-year veteran of the CFL, JR realized a childhood dream of hoisting the Grey Cup as a champion of the sport that gave him a second chance at life.

JR LaRose Videos

JR Video HD

Bc Lions Jr Larose 28th Sept 2011

JR LaRose Interviews & Podcasts

More than an Athlete Ep.1 W/ Jr Larose

Black Excellence Day 2022: Jr Larose

Run with It Fitness Entertainment

Jr Larose: from Survival Mode to Success

JR LAROSE BIOGRAPHY

JR LaRose is a 2011 Grey Cup champion. A proud member of One Arrow First Nation, he is an ambassador for Aboriginal peoples. He is an accomplished speaker who has facilitated over 400 presentations throughout Canada and the United States since 2008. A proud family man JR’s path to success has been a long and hard-fought journey. Growing up in a low incoming housing in Edmonton’s inner city didn’t exactly set JR LaRose up for success but it did give him the drive to succeed.

JR LaRose grew up without a father and did not have the opportunity to meet him since his dad is of Nigerian heritage was deported back to his native country before JR LaRose was born. The family he was given at birth struggled with drug addiction, specifically his mom. It was not until later on where JR LaRose understood that his mother Barbara was a survivor of the Residential School system, where many First Nations children were torn from their families and culture only to be abused by those who promised them an “enlightened life”.

The abuse experienced by Barbara not only affected her life but also the lives of her children. Turning to drugs and alcohol to numb the pain of an abused past, turned Barbara away from her responsibilities as a mother to her two children. Like so many of his peers growing up in high-risk environments, JR LaRose faced a number of challenges with self-value, self-worth and had an anger management problem. Without the guidance and support of parents, JR easily could have fallen into a life of crime and drugs.

But a door opened to JR LaRose when a teacher suggested he become involved in a sport to help channel his aggression. JR LaRose was soon on the football field and dedicating his life to the sport. Coaches became a steadying influence in his life as a youngster and that through the power of sport, through the power of sport JR’s life was to take a new path.

Being taken in by a family at a local church was the catalyst to a new life for JR. The family that took JR LaRose in introduced him to the sport that would forever change his life. Starting football at the age of 15 gave JR LaRose an opportunity to develop skills and build confidence. It would also be the beginning of a long and passion filled career as a football player. In 2005, he originally signed with the Edmonton Elks as a territorial protected junior.

JR LaRose signed with the Edmonton Eskimos as a territorial protected junior for the Canadian Junior Football League’s Edmonton Huskies, where his team won the Canadian Bowl. He then played in the Canadian Football League for the Edmonton Elks and the BC Lions. As a professional football player in the Canadian Football League for nine years. He played four seasons with the Edmonton Eskimos. In 2008, he had is final season with the Elks In his final season with the team (2008), he severely broke his leg and ended his career with the Eskimos.

In 2010, JR LaRose tried out for the BC Lions and made it as a backup safety, although within playing 15 games with the team he broke the same leg again. After rehabilitation he was able to play in the 2011 season as starting safety, but in the last pre-season game he broke his forearm. LaRose was able make it back for playoffs of the 2011 season and help the BC Lions to victory, winning the 2011 Grey Cup, a moment he pursued for his whole life as his biggest dream. He played two more seasons with the Lions, which included what is said to be his best season of his career.

In 2013, JR LaRose started all 18 regular seasons games as well as picking off his first interception. After his 2013 season, he set his consecutive games played streak to 44 and beat many of his personal best records for tackles, knockdowns and fumbles. This year JR completed his ninth season in the CFL with the BC Lions and retired in 2014.

JR LaRose strives to achieve success not only on the field but off as well. His pride in his Native heritage and his heart for his fellow Aboriginal people was the inspiration behind his speaking tour. JR is a gifted speaker, whose story of redemption is universal, breaking down racial and generational walls, bringing forth a sense of hope and humanity.

His determination not to let a dark past rob him of a bright future has inspired thousands. He hopes to inspire thousands more through sharing his story and is on a mission to change the outcomes for those who face systematic racism, oppression or abuse. He brings the term “resilience” to have a whole new meaning, and is able to share the lessons he has learned along his journey to inspire new ways of thinking about ourselves or each other.

Recognized by his team as a community leader, JR LaRose has been awarded the team’s Jamie Taras award of Community Service for four straight years. He has also been nominated for the Canadian Football League’s Tom Pate award four times, which honors the player who demonstrates outstanding sportsmanship, contribution to his team, contribution to his community, and contribution to his association. JR is a spokesperson for BC’s Be More Than A Bystander campaign.

JR LaRose now travels with other speakers to bring awareness and to educate youth on the issue of violence against women. His mission is to continue to contribute to his team and his community as he endeavors on new ventures; always striving, always achieving.

JR LaRose Topic Presentations

JR LaRose Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada delivers keynote presentations, workshops, fireside chats, moderated Q&A, and other presentation formats on a wide variety of topics. Each presentation is unique, customized and tailored for audiences, industries, conferences and event formats.

The Power of Belonging: Creating Spaces Where Everyone Thrives

Building a Culture of Respect: The Foundations of Relationships in the Workplace

Mindset of a Warrior: Rising to the Challenge

Rising Strong: The Mindset of Perseverance and Growth

Raising up Warriors: Redefining Strength and Responsibility

Breaking the Silence: Healing After Sexual Abuse

Empowering Indigenous Youth: Strength, Resilience, and the Future

JR LaRose Books & Articles

Life’s Difficulties Couldn’t Stop Cfler Larose from Succeeding
Life’s Difficulties Couldn’t Stop Cfler

LaRose — who played for the Canadian Football League’s Edmonton Eskimos and B.C. Lions over nine years — spoke on Nov. 26 at the...

Aboriginal Players Levi Horn and J.r. Larose Could Make B.c. a Unique Pro Team
Aboriginal Players Levi Horn and J.r. Larose

CFL players come in fromall sorts of backgrounds, and that often makes for an interesting mix in training camps between Canadians,...

JR LaRose Speaking Testimonials

"We thought the presentation was very well done. JR had a large presence and great speaking voice. He brought a great message of resilience and overcoming obstacles. He was timed perfectly and left enough time to answer all questions and take pictures. There were members from his home community in attendance. His presentation really connected with the audience, and everyone seemed to be very engaged. Overall, we were very happy.    "

Laura Dyck

Sask Sport​

"Thanks JR for providing a powerful message and role modelling for the young warriors at our last Warrior camp."

Preston Guno

Northern 1st Nations child and family service council

"I had the opportunity to work with JR for five years in delivering positive and impactful presentations to youth across the province of BC. JR exemplified diversity in his ability to carry any of our numerous initiatives and always represented our brand well in the community."

Sean McGarva

Sr. Coordinator, Community Relations
BC Lions

You May Also Like

Meghan Agosta

Meghan Agosta

Olympic Champion & Police Constable | Leadership, Teamwork & Resilience Expert

Meghan Agosta

Speaker Topics

  • Leadership
  • Leadership and Change
  • Peak Performance
  • Teamwork
  • Resilience & Change
  • Adaptability & Agility
  • Burnout Prevention
  • Olympians & Olympics
  • First Responders
Meghan Agosta is an Olympic gold medallist with the Canadian women's hockey team, competing in four Olympic Winter Games. Renowned for her...
Dr. Shahana Alibhai

Dr. Shahana Alibhai

Women's Health & Emotional Resilience | Mental Health, Menopause & Burnout Recovery

Featured

Dr. Shahana Alibhai

Speaker Topics

  • Mental Health
  • Health & Wellness
  • Health Performance
  • Resilience & Adversity
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Change Management
  • Burnout Prevention
  • Medical & Healthcare
  • Healthcare Innnovation
Dr. Shahana Alibhai is a TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and leading voice in emotional health. A family physician and Medical Director...
Erez Avramov

Erez Avramov

Resilience & Communication Expert | Leadership and Change Management Executive Coach

Erez Avramov

Speaker Topics

  • Resilience & Adversity
  • Leadership
  • Adaptability & Agility
  • Leadership and Change
  • Mindset & Attitude
  • Performance
  • Reinvention
  • Empowerment
Erez Avramov is a resilience expert, keynote speaker, and executive coach recognized as “the Man Who Refuses to Die.” A former elite...
Dr. Dean Barnes

Dr. Dean Barnes

Leadership & Equity Specialist | Representation, Storytelling & Education Expert

Dr. Dean Barnes

Speaker Topics

  • Leadership
  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
  • Inclusive Leadership
  • Teamwork
  • Cultural Diversity
  • Leadership and Change
  • Business & Corporate
  • Athletes & Sports
  • Inspirational Leadership
Dr. Dean Barnes is a Canadian speaker, podcaster, collector, and education leader who shares powerful stories of leadership, equity, and...
Burlington Burlington, Ontario
Dr. Aaron Barth

Dr. Aaron Barth

TEDx Speaker | Workplace Science | E Learning And Inclusion Expert

Featured

Dr. Aaron Barth

Speaker Topics

  • Career Advancement
  • Change Management
  • Cultural Diversity
  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Happiness & Positivity
  • HR & Corporate Culture
  • Leadership
  • Leadership Development
Dr. Aaron Barth is a recognized expert in organizational transformation, leadership development, and workplace culture, with a Ph.D. in...
Chris Beaudry

Chris Beaudry

Humboldt Broncos Coach & Crash Survivor | Resilience, Grief, Loss, Mental Wellness Expert

Chris Beaudry

Speaker Topics

  • Business & Corporate
  • Health & Wellness
  • Burnout Prevention
  • Nutrition & Fitness
  • Mental Health
  • PTSD & Trauma
  • Stress Management
  • Leadership
  • Employee Engagement
Chris Beaudry is a father, farmer, and public speaker who uses his lived experiences as grist for the mill for personal and spiritual...
Mark Black

Mark Black

Survivor | Leadership | Breakthrough | Performance | Resilience & Change Expert

Mark Black

Speaker Topics

  • Business Leadership
  • Change Management
  • Disability
  • Excellence & Success
  • Mental Health
  • Mindset & Goal Accomplishment
  • Personal Leadership
  • Health Performance
  • Mindset & Attitude
Mark Black is a heart and double-lung transplant recipient turned four-time marathon runner who exemplifies resilience through lived...
Jerome Blake

Jerome Blake

Elite Sprinter & Olympic Medalist | Peak Performance | Teamwork | Field Champion

Jerome Blake

Speaker Topics

  • Leadership
  • Leadership and Change
  • Leadership Development
  • Organizational Leadership
  • Personal Leadership
  • Teamwork
  • Peak Performance
  • Employee Engagement
  • Employee Management
Jerome Blake is a prominent Canadian sprinter renowned for his impressive track and field achievements. Notably, he won a silver medal in...
Vanisha Breault

Vanisha Breault

Trauma-Informed Leadership | Hope-Driven Culture | Leadership & Resilience Expert

Vanisha Breault

Speaker Topics

  • Resilience & Adversity
  • Personal Leadership
  • PTSD & Trauma
  • Women's Leadership
  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
  • Workplace Culture
  • Burnout Prevention
  • Stress Management
  • Leadership Strategist
Vanisha Breault is a Canadian speaker, author, and revolutionary voice for hope. As a founder and former CEO of a leading recovery...
Calgary Calgary, Alberta
Hon. Judge Marion Buller

Hon. Judge Marion Buller

MMIWG Commissioner & Former Judge | Human Rights, First Nation & Indigenous Advocate

Featured

Hon. Judge Marion Buller

Speaker Topics

  • Cultural Diversity
  • Cultural History, Safety & Humility
  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
  • Excellence & Success
  • Gender Equality
  • HR & Corporate Culture
  • Inclusive Leadership
  • Indigenous
  • Indigenous Business & Economics
Judge Marion Buller is a keynote speaker & human rights advocate who helped form the First Nations Courts in BC & the first woman...
Michelle Cameron

Michelle Cameron

Entrepreneur & Community Leader | Indigenous Economic Empowerment & Reconciliation

Michelle Cameron

Speaker Topics

  • Indigenous Business & Economics
  • Indigenous Leadership & Cultural Wisdom
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Mentoring & Succession Planning
  • Innovation & Creativity
  • Women's Leadership
  • Business Growth
  • Corporate Responsibility (CSR)
  • Truth & Reconciliation
Michelle Cameron is an entrepreneur and community leader dedicated to advancing Indigenous economic empowerment. She is the owner of...
Michael Redhead Champagne

Michael Redhead Champagne

Indigenous Advocate | Community Leader | Author | Public Speaker

Michael Redhead Champagne

Speaker Topics

  • Indigenous
  • Cultural Diversity
  • Inclusive Leadership
  • Racial Justice
  • Communication
  • Mental Health
  • Resilience & Adversity
  • Community Resilience
  • Youth Empowerment
Michael Redhead Champagne is an Indigenous advocate, speaker, and author from Winnipeg’s North End, with roots in Shamattawa First...

Frequently Asked Questions

What is JR LaRose known for and what is their expertise as a keynote speaker in Canada?

JR LaRose is known for defined subject matter expertise based on professional experience and industry background. As a keynote speaker in Canada for conferences and conventions, their presentations align with organizational objectives and audience outcomes. Corporate keynote speakers in Canada are selected based on credibility, relevance, and practical application. Expertise alignment supports informed booking decisions. Read More

What topics does JR LaRose speak on for conferences, conventions, corporate events, and annual general meetings in Canada?

JR LaRose delivers keynote presentations on defined topic areas confirmed during booking. Canadian business speakers for corporate meetings in Canada align topic selection with event objectives and audience priorities. Conference speakers in Canada adapt messaging for conventions, trade shows, and summits. Topics are finalized prior to written confirmation. Read More

How do I know if JR LaRose is the right fit for my audience, conference, convention, or AGM?

JR LaRose is evaluated based on audience alignment, event objectives, and subject matter relevance. Event planners booking keynote speakers in Canada for corporate conferences review experience, delivery style, and industry context. Canadian business speakers for annual general meetings must align with program goals and audience expectations. Fit is clarified during the pre decision call. Read More

Where is JR LaRose from and where do they speak across Canada?

JR LaRose is from Vancouver, British Columbia and is available for events across Canada. Conference speakers in Canada frequently travel nationally with defined travel terms. Corporate keynote speakers coordinate scheduling through structured agreements. Availability is confirmed through formal inquiry. Read More

Is JR LaRose available as a virtual keynote speaker for online conferences, webinars, or hybrid events in Canada?

JR LaRose is available as a virtual keynote speaker for online conferences, corporate webinars, and hybrid events in Canada. Virtual keynote speakers in Canada deliver structured presentations adapted for remote audiences. Format, platform coordination, and timing are confirmed during booking. Virtual availability is documented through written agreement in Canada. Read More

Does JR LaRose deliver keynote presentations, workshops, training sessions, breakout sessions, fireside chats, or panel discussions?

JR LaRose may deliver keynote presentations as well as workshops and breakout sessions. Canadian business speakers for corporate training in Canada define session length and format during booking. Conference speakers may also participate in fireside chats or panel discussions depending on program design. Session formats are confirmed in writing. Read More

How do I contact JR LaRose to check availability and begin the booking process in Canada?

JR LaRose is contacted through Speakers Bureau of Canada to confirm availability and event details. Event planners and meeting planners typically schedule a pre decision call to clarify format, objectives, and scope. Booking begins once event requirements are defined. Written confirmation follows agreement execution. Read More

How do I book JR LaRose for a conference, convention, trade show, summit, or corporate meeting in Canada?

JR LaRose is booked through a structured agreement process confirming availability, fee structure, and logistics. Booking keynote speakers in Canada for conventions and trade shows includes written contracts and defined payment terms. Canadian business speakers for annual general meetings require scope confirmation before date holds convert to confirmed status. Booking is finalized upon agreement execution. Read More

How much does it cost to book JR LaRose as a keynote speaker in Canada?

JR LaRose keynote speaker fees depend on event type, audience size, format, and location. The cost to book a keynote speaker in Canada varies based on preparation scope and delivery structure. Corporate keynote speakers in Canada confirm fees through a booking agent and written agreement. Final pricing reflects defined scope and contract terms. Read More

Are there additional costs to hire JR LaRose for a corporate event, convention, or trade show in Canada?

Additional costs to hire JR LaRose may include travel expenses, extended sessions, workshops, meet and greets, emcee duties, or event host roles. Keynote speakers in Canada for business conventions often separate honorarium from travel and related logistics. Canadian business speakers confirm these components in writing before agreement execution. All additional costs are outlined contractually. Read More

How far in advance should I book JR LaRose for a conference, convention, or business meeting in Canada?

JR LaRose should be booked once event dates, location, and format are confirmed. Conference speakers in Canada often secure dates several months in advance. Corporate keynote speakers for annual general meetings may have limited availability during peak seasons. Early inquiry improves confirmation certainty. Read More

Is JR LaRose represented by an agent in Canada and how is the agreement handled?

JR LaRose is represented by Speakers Bureau of Canada for booking coordination and agreement management. Keynote speakers in Canada often work through an agency to formalize contracts and payment handling. Agent representation ensures structured communication between organizers and the speaker. Representation clarifies agreement terms before confirmation. Read More