Speakers
John Fransham - Youth Leader
With decades of experience as a youth leader, John has a natural rapport with teens. He is gifted in being able to relate to everyday life issues young people deal with, and to give sound, straightforward advice. When he speaks, his message is direct and engaging – young people love the stories he tells, stories from his own life and from those of people who have inspired him.
John’s work with teens and their families has taken him to numerous countries and troubled spots, including Northern Ireland, Cuba, Israel, and Thailand. He has spent his lifetime encouraging collaboration and community among people.
In addition to his work with youth, John has counselled couples, parents, war veterans, prison inmates, and the terminally ill. The secret to his approach is summed up in John’s belief that each life has value, and every person is entitled to dignity and respect.
The father of six children (and now a grandfather), John “learned on the job” how essential it is that children and young people are taught non-violent conflict resolution. “Being a parent makes the work I do now with young people very personal,” John says. “Their hope and enthusiasm for life is contagious. It inspires my efforts to help them realise their dreams.”
