WSS honours Black Excellence Day and Black History Month with Lesra Martin

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Story provided by Aleasha Kachel, Westsyde Secondary School teacher

One of the Kamloops-Thompson School District’s core values from the 2022-2027 District Strategic Plan is Equity. As a District, we aim to remove barriers and create environments that provide accessible and empowering opportunities for all students and staff to thrive. In honour of Black Excellence Day on January 15 and in lead up to Black History Month in February, schools across the District are fostering learning opportunities for students to engage in conversations around Equity and the District’s Cultural and Identity Development priority.

On Thursday, January 16, 2025, Lesra Martin, a motivational speaker, writer, and lawyer, visited Westsyde Secondary School (WSS) to speak to students about hope, heart, and the human spirit. His presentation expressed the importance of education and how that shaped his life. He shared his inspiring life story, from realising he couldn’t read at 15 years old, to becoming a lawyer, to being featured in a blockbuster film, and eventually appearing on Oprah, accomplishing all of this through believing in himself. Lesra talked about growing up in poverty, dealing with gang violence, and not being provided with a good education. He almost gave up hope until a group of Canadians took him in and surrounded him with books, education, and stability. One of the books he was inspired by was one about the wrongful conviction of the boxer Rubin “Hurricane” Carter which led him and the Canadians to work to free Carter from prison. 

In his speech, Lesra highlighted that no one can take a good and decent education away from you, especially when you have worked so hard for it. In addition, he stressed the importance of literature and reading in his life as key factors in his success. He spoke about how you need to believe in yourself and not let go of your dreams as you are truly capable of anything. When asked about the importance of celebrating Black History and Black Excellence, Lesra highlighted the importance of focussing on the positives that have come from struggles in Black History and to remember that success cannot be achieved without difficulties and hurdles.

Grade 12 students Amara Ezedbego and Ellelis Parrott felt it was important for WSS to offer this event for students and staff as it showed how valuable education is, while Grade 10 student Paisley Podovennikoff noted she is inspired to, “think of one positive thing for every negative thing.” WSS students Jayme Konrad and Maya Stodola highlighted Lesra’s message that, “you can always overcome your challenges, no matter how dark they may seem,” which has inspired them to believe they can do anything they set their minds to. Finally, Hannah Ezedebego, a student in Grade 10, connected with Lesra’s remark that, “the purpose in life is to live with purpose.”

Principal Dominic Comita, who reached out to Lesra to present at WSS ahead of Black History Month, remarked, “It was a true privilege to have Lesra Martin speak to our students to kick off Black History Month. As someone whose personal story exemplifies resilience, determination, and the power of literacy, Lesra inspired everyone in attendance. His message served as a powerful reminder that no matter our starting point, our choices and determination can lead us to remarkable achievements.”