“If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.”
– Corporal Retired Lealand Muller
The first event of the Whistler Institute’s Global Perspectives Speaker Series has been lauded for inspiring audience members. Corporal Retired Lealand Muller leveraged imagery, video, and emphatic storytelling that took attendees on a journey: from his childhood to the Canadian Armed Forces, participating in the 50 km Mountain Man exercise (challenging mental toughness and physical ability), to making decisions that have consequences… and finding himself rolling into a hospital on a stretcher, and out in a wheelchair.
Lealand’s story – and the weightiness of it – matters because it is one about adversity and perseverance. His eloquence doesn’t gloss over the challenges he has faced since his injury, and he digs into timely topics such as mental health, the benefit of sport, and exercising kindness and curiosity when meeting people whose journey you may not fully understand.
Lealand concluded his presentation with his I AM, the Invictus Games’ Motto, and encouraged the audience to welcome Invictus Athletes in February 2025 by attending the events and cheering them on.
This event couldn’t have been possible without the support of our accommodation provider, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, and Whistler Blackcomb’s Epic Promise program, who provided the speaker gifts. ASL Interpretation was provided by Still Interpreting, with A/V set up and venue provided by Arts Whistler.
Our next Global Perspectives Speaker event is Friday, November 8: Mother Nature v. Okanagan Wineries: a Climate Conundrum with Decoa & Jeff Harder. Taking place at the Rainbow Theatre, attendees are encouraged to continue the conversation in the Grand Foyer after the talk at Cornucopia’s Signature Event, the Cellar Door. If you are a Series Pass holder or already purchased your speaker ticket, contact our Executive Director for information on securing your Cellar Door tickets.