Tim O’Loan

Tim O'Loan

Ottawa, Ontario
Military & Indigenous Survivor - First Nation's Expert
Tim O’Loan comes from 2 wounded communities: one as a proud indigenous (Sahtu Dene) & other as Veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, having served 10 years (1983-1993) in the military. Tim O’Loan is committed to supporting veterans & serving members to adapt & overcome permanent physical, mental health & has worked as an Intergovernmental Relations Advisor.
  • Change Management
  • Communications
  • Diversity & Inclusion
  • Health & Wellness
  • Leadership
  • Mental Health
  • Personal Growth
  • Resilience & Adversity
  • Agriculture & Farming
  • Annual General Meetings
  • Associations & Unions
  • Awareness Days
  • Campus & University Speakers
  • Career Development
  • Charities & Foundations
  • Community Engagement Events

TIM O’LOAN BIOGRAPHY

Tim O’Loan comes from two wounded communities: one military, and one Indigenous. A is a proud indigenous (Sahtu Dene) Veteran, having served 10 years (1983-1993) in the military. Throughout Tims’s life, he experienced massive amounts of racism and trauma. The racism and his search for his identity was something Tim struggled with until his mid 40’s when he started working at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). While he was at the TRC his mental health started to decline as he realized how his story was similar to the survivors of residential schools story, one of a lifetime of trauma.

Tim O’Loan joined the army at 17 — partly to escape an adoptive father who was physically and emotionally abusive, his father named him “Dim Tim”. Tim’s 10 years of service included a time when the military was called out during the Oka Crisis. “Soldiers had no qualms,” he says, about sharing their feelings about Indigenous people. Anxious to avoid confrontations with fellow soldiers, he endured taunting, bullying and other abuse while trying to fit into the brotherhood, he struggled with issues of identity and self-worth. Tim O’Loan served at military bases in Winnipeg, Petawawa and Baden, Germany. At 27, O’Loan decided to leave the only career he had ever known: “I couldn’t do it anymore. I left the military physically and spiritually wounded.”

Like many survivors of physical and sexual abuse, Tim “packed away” his trauma and pondered the next steps in his life. He had promised his mother he would go back to school if he ever left the military, but he never thought he’d actually have to act on the vow. His only non-military job had been pumping gas as a teenager. Despite the struggles, Tim enrolled as a special student at Carleton University. Tim studied political sciences and received failing grades on his first four essays. He persisted and celebrated when he received his first ‘D.’ It took him four years to earn a three-year bachelor’s degree, even then he was very proud of his accomplishments as he never saw a future of college, let alone university.

Tim O’loans healing journey takes a shift to a new path to rediscovery himself, his identity and connect with his birth family.  In 1997, Tim O’Loan moved to the Northwest Territories, where members of his Dené family, including his grandfather, still lived. His grandfather was a trapper who had moved to Yellowknife to gift his children a modern education and modern healthcare, sadly to have all his children taken off to residential schools. From 1998-2006, he was a Land Claims and Self Government Negotiator and Intergovernmental Relations for the Government of the NWT. In 2006 Tim felt his BA was a good start but needed to hone his writing skills, so in 2006 Tim and his family moved to Ottawa for his MA in Canadian Studies at Carleton University. In 2010, he was asked to join the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) as the Advisor to the TRC Chair, the Hon. Murray Sinclair.

Given his unique history, Tim O’Loan now identifies as a knowledge keeper and continues to share this unique perspective across Canada and beyond, particularly through the Indigenous Veterans’ lens, mental health and Reconciliation.  He is also a proud volunteer of the Veterans Ombuds Advisory Council, the Aboriginal Veterans Association (AVA) and the Assembly of First Nations Veterans Council. Tim is the co-founder of an Ottawa-based community reconciliation initiative called “Mamawi Together”.  Its intent is to engage and educate parents, students and community members in putting Reconciliation into action.

While Tim O’Loan was with the TRC he made several presentations on Reconciliation to a range of institutions and a number of stakeholders. He continues to share this unique perspective with all levels of government, educational institutions and the private sector across Canada and the United States.

Videos

Podcasts

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Tim O’Loan Topic Presentations

journey towards truth and reconciliation: insights from experience

  • Virtual PresentationKeynote PresentationWorkshop SessionHalf Day TrainingFull Day Training
  • In this compelling and inspiring presentation, Tim O’Loan takes participants on a profound journey toward understanding truth and reconciliation. With his unique blend of personal stories, experiences, and challenges, Tim shares insights gleaned from his four years with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC). Tim’s presentation is tailored to those who are eager to move forward on their journey toward truth and reconciliation through the 94 Calls to Action for individuals and organizations. Attendees will leave with a renewed sense of purpose, clarity on the next steps, and an enriched understanding of the vital importance of reconciliation in today’s world.

    This interactive and experience session includes but is not limited to:

    • Life-Changing Videos: Through three short but impactful videos, Tim brings to life critical themes of Indigenous issues, mental health, and reconciliation.
    • Personal Narratives: Drawing from his own life and experiences with the TRC, Tim humanizes the concepts and challenges of reconciliation, connecting with his audience on an emotional level.
    • Inspiration for Action: This presentation is more than an educational experience; it’s a call to action. Tim aims to educate, enlighten, and inspire a greater understanding of Indigenous issues and motivate his audience to take meaningful steps toward reconciliation.
    • Ceremony & Land Acknowledgement: For an additional cost, this session will be enriched by the presence of an Elder who may offer teaching, prayer, or a smudge ceremony, depending on the location of the event

community healing and restoration: a pathway to reconciliation

  • Virtual PresentationKeynote PresentationWorkshop SessionHalf Day TrainingFull Day Training
  • Tim O’Loan, a proud Indigenous (Sahtu Dene) Veteran and renowned speaker, brings an extraordinary perspective on community healing and restoration. Drawing from his unique blend of experiences, from serving in the military to his transformative journey with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, Tim unravels the profound connection between trauma, identity, and healing.

    In this compelling presentation, participants will explore the underlying causes of community wounds, deeply rooted in historical injustices and personal struggles. Tim will share his insights on the importance of acknowledging and understanding the shared history, recognizing the resilience of Indigenous communities, and embracing empathy and compassion.

    The session focuses on:

    • Understanding the Impact: Tim’s personal stories shed light on the scars left by racism, abuse, and residential schools, providing a foundation for comprehending the multifaceted challenges faced by Indigenous communities.
    • Reconciliation in Action: Tim elaborates on the critical steps to put reconciliation into practice, emphasizing collective responsibility, awareness, and meaningful engagement.
    • Strategies for Healing: Addressing mental health, self-worth, and identity, Tim offers a framework for community healing, centered around empathy, understanding, and collaboration.
    • Restorative Approaches: Participants will learn practical strategies for restoration that align with traditional Indigenous values, promoting social cohesion and mutual respect.

the wounded warrior: tim o'loan on trauma, ptsd, identity, crisis prevention, and healing pathways

  • Virtual PresentationKeynote PresentationWorkshop SessionHalf Day TrainingFull Day Training
  • Tim O’Loan, a proud Indigenous (Sahtu Dene) Veteran, delivers an enlightening presentation on trauma, PTSD, identity, crisis prevention, and healing pathways. Drawing from personal military experiences and his work with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, O’Loan explores the complexities of intergenerational trauma and its impact on mental health and self-identity.

    This presentation is an awakening journey, guiding participants toward understanding, healing, and restoration. His wisdom resonates across professional boundaries, appealing to those committed to mental health, community resilience, and human dignity. Participants will gain insights into PTSD, trauma and lack of identity and their connection to addiction, substance abuse, and suicide, and learn the importance of community in crisis management and prevention. O’Loan offers actionable strategies for recognizing and managing crises, emphasizing purpose-driven actions, resilience, and community support. He also provides prevention techniques for substance abuse and addiction, guided by self-awareness, Indigenous values, and a collective approach to healing.

    Learning Outcomes:

    • Understand the multifaceted nature of trauma, PTSD, crisis prevention, and healing principles within the Indigenous context.
    • Acquire practical intervention and prevention tools, rooted in empathy, compassion, and collaboration.
    • Contribute to a collective pathway toward healing, recognition, and growth, inspired by O’Loan’s unique experiences and insights.

navigating the storm: tim o'loan's insights into healing, identity, and community support

  • Virtual PresentationKeynote PresentationWorkshop SessionHalf Day TrainingFull Day Training
  • In this captivating presentation, Tim O’Loan shares his personal journey of navigating through storms of racism, trauma, and identity crisis. Drawing from his rich experience as a proud Indigenous (Sahtu Dene) Veteran and his time with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, Tim offers an engaging look at the underlying factors that impact mental health, including PTSD, addiction, and intergenerational trauma. He provides actionable insights into how individuals and communities can embark on a path of healing, self-discovery, and resilience.

    Throughout this session, participants will explore Tim’s multifaceted experiences, understanding how he turned struggles into strengths and how he managed to find balance and purpose amidst adversity. The presentation touches on various aspects of healing, including empathy, compassion, community support, and the critical role of recognizing shared history and values. Tim’s unique perspective on trauma, prevention, crisis management, and restoration is sure to leave audiences inspired and empowered, equipped with practical knowledge to foster a supportive and understanding community environment.

    The insights gained from this presentation align with the ever-changing dynamics of the modern world and resonate deeply with audiences seeking to enhance their understanding of mental health, community connection, and personal growth. Tim O’Loan’s voice serves as a beacon of hope and a guide to those who want to make a meaningful impact in their lives and in the lives of others.

unraveling injustice: an insightful journey through systematic oppression and the path to racial inclusion

  • Virtual PresentationKeynote PresentationWorkshop SessionHalf Day TrainingFull Day Training
  • Tim O’Loan, Indigenous (Sahtu Dene) Veteran and influential speaker, as he navigates the intricate web of systematic oppression and racial injustice that has shaped our society. Drawing from his personal experiences in the military, his transformative work with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, and his extensive knowledge of Indigenous culture and rights, Tim offers a deeply resonant perspective on the fight for social justice and human rights.

    In this enlightening presentation, Tim uncovers the hidden mechanisms of systemic oppression, dissecting the policies and practices that marginalize and discriminate. His insights into the struggles of Indigenous communities provide a rare glimpse into the realities of racial exclusion and the imperative for inclusion.

    Through his unique lens, Tim explores the profound connections between historical injustices, contemporary challenges, and the ongoing battle for human rights. He delves into the importance of recognizing and understanding the shared history and the resilience of marginalized communities.

    The session sheds light on the strategies for creating racial inclusion, emphasizing the collective responsibility to promote social cohesion, mutual respect, and empathy. Participants will gain practical tools and understanding to actively engage in the pursuit of social justice, recognizing the significance of Indigenous values and traditions.

    Tim O’Loan’s impassioned call for human rights, racial inclusion, and social justice resonates far beyond the Indigenous context. His guidance, wisdom, and dedication inspire a renewed commitment to breaking down the barriers of oppression and forging a path toward a more inclusive, compassionate, and equitable society. His presentation is a must-see for anyone committed to human rights and social change.

authenticity in healing and inclusion: creating safe spaces for acceptance and being one's self

  • Virtual PresentationKeynote PresentationWorkshop SessionHalf Day TrainingFull Day Training
  • In an era where genuine connection and empathy are paramount, Tim O’Loan’s powerful insights into authenticity, healing, and inclusion provide an essential roadmap. With a background that encompasses military service, work with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, and an unyielding commitment to mental health and Indigenous rights, Tim illustrates the transformative power of authenticity.

    This presentation offers participants a profound understanding of the importance of authentic relationships in fostering healing and inclusion. Tim shares his personal journey of self-discovery, addressing themes such as identity, trauma, and resilience. He explores how these personal insights can be leveraged to create more compassionate communities and organizations.

    Tim offers strategy in a broader context, focusing on the importance of building environments where individuals can be themselves without judgment or fear. Tim’s insights into authenticity in healing go beyond conventional boundaries, underscoring the essential roles of empathy, trust, and cultural sensitivity.

    Tim’s unique approach to authenticity in healing transcends conventional wisdom, highlighting the significance of empathy, trust, and cultural sensitivity. By delving into these core values, attendees will gain the tools needed to promote a more inclusive and understanding environment, whether in their personal lives or within their organizations. His message resonates with all who seek to build connections and create positive change through authenticity and compassionate action.

bridging two worlds: partnership between western and indigenous institutions and nations

  • Virtual PresentationKeynote PresentationWorkshop SessionHalf Day TrainingFull Day Training
  • Tim O’Loan’s extensive experience as a Land Claims and Self-Government Negotiator brings a profound depth to this engaging presentation on building partnerships between Western and Indigenous institutions and nations. Having spent crucial years navigating these delicate negotiations, Tim’s insights and knowledge provide a roadmap to effective collaboration, mutual support, and sustainable community development.

    His passion for building bridges between different worlds resonates in this presentation, illustrating the potential for forging connections that transcend cultural boundaries, fostering unity, allyship, and a shared vision for collaboration and respect between Western and Indigenous institutions and nations. In this enlightening session, participants will delve into the complex world of partnerships and negotiations that bridge different cultural, social, and political landscapes. Drawing from his hands-on experience, Tim explores the underlying principles that guide successful collaboration, focusing on respect, understanding, shared goals, and transparent communication.

    Key areas covered in this presentation include:

    • Negotiation Insights: Tim shares his real-world experiences and wisdom gained from years of negotiating land claims and self-government agreements, highlighting the nuances and strategies that enable successful collaboration.
    • Community Collaboration and Funding: Attendees will learn about the delicate balance required to secure funding, support community initiatives, and ensure that all parties are aligned in their objectives.
    • Building Sustainable Partnerships: Tim elaborates on the long-term strategies necessary to cultivate and maintain partnerships that honour the cultural integrity and autonomy of Indigenous nations while also fostering growth and opportunity.

Testimonials

Your presentation was absolutely amazing. I have been to several workshops where we learned about the trauma caused by residential schools but I have never heard testimonies from survivors. This had quite an impact on me as I know it did the same for my colleagues. It is clear that as a staff, we are not all at the same place with regard to information on indigenous affairs and reconciliation. Your workshop gave us a good foundation on which to build on.        

Claire

At a personal level, I wasn’t expecting to face deep questions about my relationship with my mother…but I did and I thank you for that because I think it is a part of reconciliation. I am also certain that everybody in the room had their own view positive experience of the presentation and took something of great value from the things that you shared. I hope you know that you also are a hero to share, educate, honour and encourage reconciliation.

Ariane

May you continue to move hearts and open minds with the power of your message and know that your contributions to Reconciliation through sessions like the one we had are making a difference.

Grace

Articles & Media

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Books

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How to book Tim O’Loan for an event?

Tim O’Loan keynote speaker is an expert presenter and has a wide range of experience speaking to a wide variety of audiences and organizations. Tim O’Loan delivers keynotes, workshops & training sessions. They may also host or emcee events. Hire Tim O’Loan from Ottawa, Ontario for your event to inspire the audience to take action and make change in their work and their lives. Your workplace will benefit from our keynote speaker and their keynote talks and speeches will shift the mindsets or behaviours for the audience members in Canada. 

Interested in booking Tim O’Loan for an event?

Are you looking to hire Tim O’Loan for your event? Tim O’Loan Ottawa, Ontario is a dynamic and engaging speaker that offers audiences researched content paired with expertise and a dynamic speaking ability. Tim O’Loan is also a Canadian corporate consultant and coach and facilitates workshops and training sessions for a corporate audience. Tim O’Loan is an expert keynote presenter and speaks on wide variety of topics. Hiring a great speaker for your event is important and working with a thought leader like Tim O’Loan from Speakers Canada’s roster will engage audiences into the content of the presentation to bring awareness and a fresh perspective for their approach to their work and their lives. Book Tim O’Loan to educate, motivate and activate the audience through an interactive and entertaining presentation at corporate meetings and gatherings.

Known as a popular key note speaker in Canada, Tim O’Loan creates life changing experiences for the participants with practical insights and strategic advice they can implement right after the session. Working with a one our leading expert speaker like Tim O’Loan from Ottawa, Ontario offers organizations a fresh perspective to assist the people of the organization. No matter if it is a government, association, or business crowd, Tim O’Loan is a perfect speaker for your event. Through unique practical insights for trending topics and years experience speaking to different organizations, Tim O’Loan focuses on changing individuals to make better decisions at work and their lives. No matter if you are holding an in person or virtual event, having an influential speaker such as Tim O’Loan will engage, motivate, and activate the audience to make a change in their lives and inspire action for results to meet organizational goals. Your workforce will benefit from Tim O’Loan’s presentations and speeches, with measurable results set to shift the people of the organization and core direction of the company. Book Tim O’Loan speaker for your annual general meeting, conference, summit, or convention in Canada.

How much does it cost to hire Tim O’Loan for a keynote presentation or virtual event?

Tim O’Loan is an expert professional key note speaker with a lot of experience speaking and delivering engaging talks to organizations and audiences in Canada. Each of Speaker Bureau Canada’s talent have different ways to assess their fees, and Tim O’Loan speaker fee ranges depending on the size of the audience, event format (in person or virtual), event location, and if the organization booking them is a non profit, association, government department/government agency or business/corporation. The speakers we work with are flexible with their fees, and it is important for us to learn more about your event before we approach them, as it is our role to work for you, and to help you find a speaker within budget. 

Please contact Speakers Bureau of Canada and provide us with your event details so that we can contact Tim O’Loan to check availability or confirm the pricing and associated costs to hire a great speaker like Tim O’Loan for your event. As Tim O’Loan's agent and as a Canadian top speaker bureau and talent agency for speakers, we are able to propose each event opportunity from each host organization’s behalf to try to help you get in touch with Tim O’Loan and confirm them for your in person or online meeting/event. We can also provide and advise on the booking process and potentially negotiate their fee. Speakers Canada is a client focused speaker agency, and we work for you in finding good speakers for your team meetings and booking processes.

Tim O’Loan Disclaimer
Speakers Bureau Canada assists companies and event planning teams seeking to hire talent like Tim O’Loan for speaking engagements, virtual meetings, conference appearances, training sessions and workshops facilitations. Our Canadian speakers bureau does not claim to exclusively represent Tim O’Loan, however they are represented by Speakers Canada, and we work with them closely for their Canadian speaking opportunities and bookings. As Canada’s top speaker bureau, we represent Canadian motivational keynote speakers and professional guest speakers that will be available on your upcoming events date and location that are withing the budget. Our talented bureau speaker booking agency can help find business speakers or celebrity speakers that aligns with each organization, audience, event theme and the topic themes you hope for the speaker to address in their presentation. 

When SBC receives a request to book Tim O’Loan we provide you with their speaker fees, travel costs and check their schedules. We work closely with the host organization’s event planning team and the speaker to handle the logistics and to relay or negotiate associated costs. Our talented team members then will work with our talent directly or their agent/manager/assistant to confirm the Canadian speaker fee and travel expenses, so that event planning teams can receive an official quote for the speaker appearing at the event. Speaker fees and travel costs vary per speaker and our role is to contact Tim O’Loan about your event, after we have connected with the event organizers to learn all the event details and/or conference program. Each booking request is unique since session durations and audience sizes can vary which may affect the speaker’s fees. If you are looking to hire Tim O’Loan, we recommend filling out the booking request form so a booking agent from Speakers Bureau Canada can get in touch with our talent to help you coordinate with your team to engage the speaker for a successful event.

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