Cobourg native, breast cancer survivor, and leadership development expert, Leisse Wilcox, will compete in Speaker Slam’s 8th Annual Grand Slam: The Inspirational Speaking Finals on November 9th, 2024, at the CBC Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto.
Earlier this year, Leisse captivated audiences with her powerful speech, “The Goldilocks Guide to Finding Freedom”, which explored the pressure of perfection and the pursuit of self-worth. Her story earned her second place in the Freedom-themed competition. Now, she’s returning to the Grand Slam, where the theme is Brave, challenging speakers to share stories of courage and resilience.
For Leisse, bravery wasn’t just about facing an aggressive breast cancer diagnosis—it was about redefining her identity, embracing vulnerability, and showing up in the world as her authentic self. With Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, her story carries even greater weight and significance.
Leisse is no stranger to overcoming adversity. From battling breast cancer and choosing to “go flat” after a double mastectomy to navigating divorce and solo parenting, her journey is a testament to the quiet yet powerful acts of bravery that have shaped her life.
“We live in a world that tells us to either be ‘not enough’ or ‘too much,’ and I had to fight those messages while literally fighting for my life,” Leisse reflects. “Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us that many women aren’t just battling their health—they’re battling how they perceive themselves. My story isn’t just about cancer—it’s about radically accepting who we are, right now, no matter what.”
Diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer, Leisse had to redefine her relationship with her body, femininity, and the concept of being “enough.” From losing her hair to choosing to go flat after a double mastectomy, her journey illustrates what it truly means to be brave while challenging societal pressures.
This transformation of accepting her new identity and finding strength in vulnerability has brought her to the Grand Slam stage.
“BRING THE HEAT! Competing at the Grand Slam is a dream come true,” says Leisse. “My university guidance counselor once told me I should be a keynote speaker, and at the time, I had no idea what I would ever talk about. Fast forward 20 years—through cancer, divorce, solo parenting three kids, and building a multiple six-figure business from my dining room—suddenly, I have a LOT to say. Sharing the stage with so many talented speakers and thought leaders is an honor, and it’s a ton of fun!”
Speaker Slam Co-Founder, Dan Shaikh, shared his admiration for Leisse:
“Leisse’s journey of embracing herself after cancer and redefining her identity aligns perfectly with our Brave theme. Her ability to mix humor with vulnerability will resonate deeply with audiences, making her a powerful contender in the Grand Slam.”
The Grand Slam will feature the top 14 speakers from the 2024 season, with participants traveling from across North America, including from Starkville, Mississippi, Fort Worth, Texas, and various parts of Canada. These speakers will compete for the prestigious title of Inspirational Speaker of the Year, a $5,000 cash prize, and a prize package worth up to $50,000.
Speaker Slam continues to be a pivotal platform for speakers to share their impactful stories, propelling many participants to global stages, including TEDx talks and major media features. The event not only highlights the power of storytelling but also elevates speakers to new heights in their careers.
SPEAKERS COMPETING IN THE GRAND SLAM:
Meagan O’Nan – Starkville, Mississippi, USA
Calissa Ngozi – Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Christine Farrugia – Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Yusuf Khoja – Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Alana Moor – Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada
Madette Mendoza – Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Scott Ferron – East Amherst, New York, USA
Maya Woronicz – Timmins, Ontario, Canada
Val Vee – Ajax, Ontario, Canada
Aseel El-Baba – Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Tyler Ryan Hall – Fort Worth, Texas, USA
Danielle Campo – Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Leisse Wilcox – Cobourg, Ontario, Canada
Mari Haruno – Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Leisse Wilcox is an Executive Performance Coach who helps leaders and teams get out of their way and get results so they can lead, live, and succeed on their own terms. Featured in Forbes, ABC, Elephant Journal, Global News, the Toronto Star, and Thrive Global, Leisse’s mission is to help people come home to themselves and live authentically. A passionate TEDx speaker, cancer survivor, twice best-selling author, mom of three, and taco enthusiast, her journey is a testament to the power of self-love and resilience. Leisse believes that changing the world starts by making the changes we want to see within ourselves first.@leissewilcox
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
