Sport for Life is excited to announce Kwame Osei as one of the keynote presenters for the 2024 Sport for Life Summit in Ottawa

The Summit, with its 2024 theme of Everyone Belongs, brings together leaders who strive to enhance quality sport and physical activity throughout Canada by establishing an environment for knowledge sharing and idea generation. The Ottawa Summit takes place January 25-26 at the Nepean Sportsplex.

Osei was born in Ghana but raised in Rexdale, a neighbourhood in Toronto characterized by its challenges, including low-income housing and high rates of drugs, violence, and gang activity. Growing up there, Osei found himself immersed in an environment that often dictated low expectations for its youth. This prevailing mindset shaped his teenage years, leading him to adopt a perspective of “expect the worst and hope for the best”. Unfortunately, this outlook had its consequences for him and ultimately resulted in encounters with the law.

Fortunately for Osei, his love of sports and dedication to self-improvement altered the course of his life. His ability as a football player led him to an impressive Canadian collegiate career, which resulted in both a stint in the CFL as well as the completion of two university degrees. He went on to work as a teacher in high schools and at a federal prison, as well as a coach at various levels, including Queen’s University – all the while inspiring others with his story of overcoming adversity. 

Beyond his vocational pursuits, Osei is an entrepreneur, an author, and even participated in Amazing Race Canada. Osei’s contributions have been recognized with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Award, highlighting his dedication to making a positive impact in his community and beyond. Today, as the Head of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at Nikki Ray Media, Osei continues to advocate for positive change and social justice. His journey proves that with perseverance, determination, and a positive mindset, one can overcome even the most challenging circumstances and lead a fulfilling and successful life.

Register for the Ottawa Summit here. The early-bird registration rate is available until December 31. For information about flight discounts and our accommodation room block, visit sportforlife.ca/summit. If you have any questions at all about the event, please email Emily Rand: emily@sportforlife.ca.