It was a full-circle moment for Samara O’Gorman

It was a full-circle moment for Samara O’Gorman as she returned to Carlyle Elementary, the very place her journey began back in 2023. Students from grades 4 through 6 gathered in the school gym for her latest presentation, Leading With Your Heart 3.0.

“This is me, Samara at age 12” O’Gorman began, pointing to a photo. “I look at myself and I look so innocent and feel a deep urge to protect her. Because at that age, I was already experiencing something that many people face at one stage of their life: Bullying”

Throughout her presentation, O’Gorman focused on the power of kindness, staying true to oneself, and the importance of finding one's passion. When a student asked how she navigated those difficult years, her answer was simple: friendship. “ For a long time, it bothered me,” she shared. “But looking back, I don’t remember the number of bullies, rather how the friends around me made me feel better. “

O’Gorman shared other ways she coped with bullying, and how discovering her passion became her superpower. She explained how passions build purpose and confidence, along with strong support systems and meaningful friendships. Through heartfelt poetry and powerful storytelling, O’Gorman inspired students to lead with empathy, confidence, and heart.

A heartfelt thank you to Dina Vourdousis, the Carlyle staff and students for the warm welcome. With the generous support of The Jaclyn Fisher Foundation, Inspirations is proud to continue bringing messages of empathy, resilience, and empowerment to classrooms across Greater Montreal and surrounding areas.