The Power of 1 - Steven Russell

The Power of 1: One Person Can Make All the Difference

About the keynote:

One person can change the trajectory of a child’s life. This keynote celebrates the transformative role of showing up, being present, and believing in the potential of every young person. By embracing the five elements of connection – Presence,

Patience, Creativity, Curiosity, and Authenticity – you’ll learn how to open the door to deeper, more meaningful relationships that leave a lasting impact.

Value and Takeaways:

The importance of showing up: Discover how being present and consistent can transform a young person’s sense of self-worth.
Master the five elements of connection: Learn how to use Presence, Patience, Creativity, Curiosity, and Authenticity to build trust and meaningful relationships.
Empowerment to make a difference: Feel inspired and equipped to be the one person who can change a child’s life.
Practical relationship-building skills: Take away tools to foster deeper connections with young people in your care or community.

The Ripple Effect: Every Moment Matters

An inspiring keynote exploring how everyday actions build trust, hope, and lasting impact.

The Ripple Effect:

Every Moment Matters

Connection Before Correction: Compassion Over Compliance

A thought-provoking keynote that reimagines behaviour through empathy, trust, and connection - putting relationships before rules.

Connection Before Correction:

Compassion Over Compliance

Making Sense of Absence: Overcoming Barriers to Belonging

A powerful keynote exploring how belonging, not attendance, is the key to engagement and lasting connection in schools.

Making Sense of Absence:

Overcoming Barriers to Belonging

Mixed Faces in Mixed Places: Finding Connection in a Disconnected World

A deeply human keynote examining how children in care navigate constant change - and how we can help them find belonging and identity.

Mixed Faces in Mixed Places:

Finding Connection in a Disconnected World

Preparing to Leave the System, Not the Care

A compelling keynote calling for care-experienced young people to leave the system without ever losing the care, connection, and support they deserve.

Preparing to Leave the System, Not the Care

“Steven reminds his audience that real change doesn’t come from labels or assumptions, but from relationships built on trust, understanding, and genuine care. His insights challenge you to reflect on your own practice and reaffirm why creating safe environments—full of people willing to spend the time building relationships—matters so deeply.”

Julie Boanas-Petitt,

Head Teacher NPQEL

“The ‘archaeologist of emotions’ is what came to mind after spending an hour in Steven’s company. His story lights the fire to inspire, promoting the importance of empathic connection and the power that consistency in relationships brings to a child. If you’re thinking of booking any training or motivational speakers this year, put this one on your list!”

Deborah Laurie,

Specialist Education Adviser for Children Looked After

“Steven’s ability to use his powerful personal experiences of care to enable people to think differently about forming relationships was on point. His presentation will stay with all of us in the room for a long, long time. Steven is not only a beautiful person but a beautiful presenter who fills the room with thoughtfulness and hope.”

Diane Hull,

Executive Director of Nursing, Nottinghamshire Healthcare

“Steven has brought real insight and fresh approaches, ripping the veil off mistakes schools make daily. His message might be hard for some school leaders to hear, but staff and students will thank you for bringing him in. Make the connection with Steven and make a real difference to young people.”

Simon Larter-Evans,

Founder, Life Narratives

“Steven’s approach is bold, pioneering, and profoundly human. He empowers care professionals to see the extraordinary influence they hold in shaping lives. Through connection, creativity, and courage, he demonstrates how even the smallest action can lead to extraordinary change.”

Victoria Banks,

Virtual School Head, Middlesbrough Council