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Speaker | Podcast Host - My Hockey Hero |  Creator - NHL Black Hockey Card Collection | Black Hockey Historian 

 

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Dean Barnes is recognized for his work promoting diversity in hockey, particularly through his initiatives like collecting hockey cards of Black National Hockey League players and hosting the My Hockey Hero podcast. These projects celebrate Black and biracial players' contributions to the sport and aim to inspire younger generations. For his recent project, Dean is collaborating with the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) during the 2024-25 season to host monthly podcast interviews featuring Indigenous and Racialized CHL players. This initiative aims to connect with fans, particularly young, multicultural audiences, and strengthen the sport's commitment to inclusivity.

 

His speaking topics are customized for businesses, organizations, teams, players and coaches.

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Speaking Topics 

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Diversity and Inclusion, Trusting Relationships

Like in hockey, there may be unknown stories of individuals in any organization or workplaces. To build a relationship with someone, you must first begin to understand their identities. Knowing the stories of lesser known individuals in an organization can lead to greater inclusion and acceptance through a closer connection. Stories help us make sense of the diversity of our identities and they are at the foundation of our relationships. They help us see the many ways in which we are alike, and they help us celebrate and appreciate our differences. In this presentation, the audience will learn how to foster an environment that values different backgrounds and experiences and how to be an effective ally. 

 

Inspirational Leadership, Change and Influence

This presentation explores various concepts and real-world examples, highlighting how leaders can drive successful change and influence others. Leading and initiating change requires dreaming and setting a vision to influence others. Dean’s journey of amplifying and elevating stories of current of close to 100 Black and biracial players who have appeared in at least one National Hockey League game is celebrated. The audience will learn how leaders motivate others and influence others to change perceptions. Organizations and leaders will understand the need to adapt to changing environments, expectations, and how to overcome resistance to change.

 

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Black Hockey History Month Presentation

 “The Power of Representation in Hockey”

Audiences will learn about Dean’s’ personal background and career journey and the importance of Black History Month in celebrating achievements of past and present Black hockey players. There will be an opportunity to see the hockey card collection of 100 Black/biracial players which was displayed in the NHL Black Hockey History Museum across North American cities in 2022.

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Presentation Highlights

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