SGI has announced the launch of a new program that helps schools and organizations in Saskatchewan bring educational, inspirational and empowering speakers to promote safer driving habits.
The SGI Speaks Program offers up to $1,000 towards fees and travel costs within Saskatchewan to those who want to share personal stories about life changing traffic incidents.
“A deeply personal story of someone directly impacted by a mistake or bad choice behind the wheel resonates with people in a way that facts and statistics alone cannot. We believe connecting people with powerful stories can inspire life-saving changes in behaviour,” said Brad Crassweller, MLA for White City – Qu’Appelle. “By bringing these stories to communities across Saskatchewan, we’re not just sharing knowledge — we’re fostering a sense of shared responsibility and commitment to each other’s well-being.”
SGI's current speakers include:
Cody Demerais
When Demerais was 18 years old, he made the life-changing decision to drive impaired. Both Demerais and his best friend were severely injured in a crash. After spending time in correctional centres and grappling with substance use and mental health struggles, Demerais dealt with his trauma and put his life back together again. In his presentations, Demerais shares his journey from being a reckless teenager, the consequences he faced and how he transformed his life.
Sandra LaRose
In 2018, LaRose’s 16-year-old daughter Kailynn was involved in a distracted driving collision with a train. While Kailynn did not survive the crash, LaRose carries Kailynn in her heart and uses her own voice to raise awareness about distracted driving and traffic safety in the hopes of saving others from the heartbreak of losing a loved one.
“Real-life stories are what people remember. The SGI Speakers Program allows speakers like myself to share these stories,” said LaRose. “My world was turned upside down in 2018 with the death of Kailynn, but sharing her story with the people of Saskatchewan, and hopefully saving lives, is the best way I know to honour an amazing young lady.”
The program is available to schools, charities, workplaces, non-profit groups, community organizations and other pub entities that are secular and not politically affiliated.
Those wanting to become a new speaker can apply to join the program by reaching out to speakersprogram@sgi.sk.ca.
For more information on the program and how you can apply, visit sgi.sk.ca/speakers-program.