Spencer West

Spencer West is a visionary activist and motivational speaker who faced numerous challenges early in his life. Born with sacral agenesis, he underwent a double amputation at the age of five, entering a world often unfriendly towards those with disabilities. Undeterred, he confronted these challenges head-on, learning to navigate this world and accomplishing things that many thought impossible. His journey has equipped him with techniques that professionals, educators, and young people can utilize to redefine their own potential.

West, a graduate of Westminster College with a degree in communications, is known for his advocacy in the disability justice movement and the LGBT community. His accomplishments include summiting Mount Kilimanjaro on his hands and wheelchair, a feat that raised over $500,000 for the Free the Children charity. He has also opened for Demi Lovato on a World Tour, and starred in the documentary Redefine Possible: The Story of Spencer West, which debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival. As an author, he penned the best-selling book "Standing Tall: My Journey," and has developed a significant following on social media platforms like TikTok, where he posts about the disability justice movement and his personal experiences as a gay amputee. West also had a stint as an operations manager at a salon and spa in Phoenix, Arizona, and volunteered at a TV newsroom before becoming an ambassador for ME to WE.

West's influence spreads far beyond social media. He has appeared in numerous media outlets, including ABC News, Buzz Feed, 60 Minutes, CTV, BBC News, TMZ, CNN, Forbes, and The Globe & Mail, CBS This Morning, Bloomberg and was a featured guest on Season 2 of "Karamo The Podcast," hosted by Karamo Brown. He has also spoken alongside notable figures such as former U.S. Vice-President Al Gore, Mia Farrow, Martin Luther King III, Jennifer Hudson, and Natalie Portman, amongst others.

Spencer West's inspiring words have echoed around the world, reaching millions of listeners virtually and in-person. His speaking engagements have included audiences from Virgin Atlantic, KPMG, Staples, Financial Institutions, Insurance, Microsoft, Universal McCann, Ministry of Education, Colleges & Universities, YPO/WPO, SickKids Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs, Healthcare Sector, Financial Institutions, and more.

Whether at corporate conferences, universities, non-profit organizations, or in 20,000-seat stadiums, West's charisma and dynamism captivate all. His words and actions have propelled millions to confront their challenges, embrace change, and instill hope. His speeches offer valuable lessons on finding opportunity in every challenge and motivating others to create positive change.

Now residing in Toronto and in the process of applying for Canadian citizenship, West continues to use his experiences, imbued with humor and humility, to enlighten others on how to face adversity. His life-lessons stimulate hope and empower leaders to motivate others to effect positive change.