Merri Macartney BA, BEd.

... that's me ... is a successful speaker, seminar leader, author and coach.  I am known as the speaker who engages, educates and engergizes all with my dynamically enthusiastic and entertaining style.  Humor comes easy to me with  particpants who are ready to laugh and learn.

Overcoming adversities from my youth, going from high school drop-out to high school teacher to District Governor of a 5000 member strong organization has taught me much.  I am fully experienced, ready, willing and able to share some of life's hardest lessons, valuable knowledge and skills.  All  with my ever present sense of humor.

Speaker:

Having spoken to many types of audiences, once thing is very clear to me.  People want a strong message, take-away tips and techniques to move them forward and a clear call to action.  My customized keynotes do just that whether they are 30-45-60 minutes.  I am known for being easy to work with and delivering on the objectives of my clients.

Seminar Leader: 

For nearly 20 years I have been designing and implementing courses for both youth and adult learners.  Effective communications, public speaking and presentation skills are frequent requests.  Leadership seminars came about as a result of my three years in District Leadership with Toastmasters International.

A year ago, I became an accredited course provider for the Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario offering personal skills and management courses.

Author:

In the summer of 2007 while preparing to do a seminar, my husband Joe and I wrote the book, Shiny Thinking Shiny Life: The Universal Law of Attraction Applied.  The seminar, "Why You Aren't Getting What You Want" was a hit and is still a frequent request.

For the past two years I have been a freelance columnist for Sun Media Corporation offering my humorous slice of life "Note to Self".

Coach:

Coaching is something to which  I am committed.  I help individuals, small teams and organizations dig deep to determine their specific needs and wants, help them create an action plan  and then help them with the implementation of their plan. Being an accountability partner ensures that clients will achieve the objectives they have set for themselves.  

Professional Experience:

2004 - Present - Professional Speaker - Seminar Leader - Author - Coach

2010 - 2011 - Toastmasters District 86 Governor

2009 - 2010 - Toastmasters District 86 Lieutenant Governor Education & Training

2008 - 2009 - Toastmasters District 86 Lieutenant Governor Marketing

1993 - 2008 - Teacher with Upper Grand District School Board - high school youth/adults

                         English and Business Studies