Andre Norman

Professor John Kotter of the Harvard Business School wrote that, “for leadership, achieving a vision requires motivating and inspiring—keeping people moving in the right direction . . . by appealing to basic but often untapped human needs, values, and emotions.” Andre had to abandon his old value system in order to take control of his life and, once released, stay out of prison. But he did find that some of what he learned in the world of prison gangs—about those untapped needs and emotions—has relevance for leaders in the world of legitimate business. Andre provides fresh perspectives on the leader’s role and a new appreciation for what is possible.

Participants step out of their comfort zones and visit a homeless shelter, prison, youth detention center, or half-way house to gain new insights into the human condition. Participants say that this workshop (along with Program 2, which includes a prison visit) shakes their assumptions about people who do not share their advantages and—most importantly—teaches the participants new truths about themselves. This new understanding allows them to answer the fundamental dictum of leadership, “Lead yourself first.”

Andre often presents this program to business audiences that want to help their community. Sponsors also engage Andre to present this program directly to at-risk youth programs. The story of Andre’s personal journey from prison to university lecturer and international speaker is not a Cinderella story. It is a tale of extremely hard work, numerous setbacks and an uphill struggle against tremendous odds. It is also a story that has inspired numerous audiences and encouraged people to think differently about what a determined individual can achieve.

Andre developed a keen understanding of people on his incredible journey. In this workshop he uses that knowledge to help participants explore family dynamics, whether it’s their family at home or their family at work. Andre shows that many of the things that frustrate, puzzle and limit us are within our control.

In the world of prison gangs, there are harsh consequences for failure. Andre survived prison and became an outstanding coach by paying close attention to the world as it was, not as he wanted it to be. Pilots call this quality situational awareness, and it’s a critical quality in any successful business venture. In this program Andre shows how great teams also learn to believe in themselves, and how resiliency and determination help when the world surprises them.