About James Shone
James's Story
James Shone is widely accepted as one of the most inspirational speakers in the world of education today. He uses his story to set the scene of a life where there could have been a very valid reason to give up. Instead, James provides a real life example of maintaining self-belief based on the charity’s messages.
Following a 16 year teaching career and having been offered a job as Headmaster in 2012, James was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Following 27 hours of brain surgery James unfortunately lost the majority of his sight. However, James is a man who embodies a positive attitude to life and a determination to turn setbacks into springboards and he was determined not to give up.
James Shone's Story
A positive attitude to life
The formation of I Can & I Am
James’s passion has always been to help young people address challenges around self-belief, self-acceptance, and mental health. As a teacher, this was at the heart of his pastoral message. This led to the formation of the charity in 2015, enabling James to spread his messages of ‘I Can & I Am’ to an increasingly wide audience. At the heart of his charity is to inspire confidence in every individual, to enable them to know who they are and what they are able to do, rather than focusing on what they can’t.
James is a hugely engaging orator – he is able to win over audiences young and old with his warmth, humour and vulnerability.
The charity now has a team of 20 people and works with schools throughout the South of England supporting thousands of young people and adults every year.
Testimonials about James
Pupil, St Mary’s Calne
James Shone’s talk should have been compulsory for all pupils! It made you realise we make everything a big deal and it’s really not. The room was silent, we couldn’t take our eyes off him – the best lecture ever.
Teacher, The Paragon School
Your inspiration, positivity and kindness and influence has had an immediate affect on the confidence and outlook of the children that you have been mentoring – remarkable in fact. You have a real gift… Thank you.
Teacher, Merchant Taylors' School, Crosby
I have rarely seen boys, staff and parents as moved and mesmerised as they were during all your presentations and the feedback I have received is testament to how many people you reached out to during the day. Thank you for sharing your personal experience in such a positive way and for inspiring us all.
James's Inspirations
Roo Panes
The singer/song writer Roo Panes heard about James’ story and honoured him by giving him the beautifully moving song he had written entitled ‘Soldier of Hope.’ The song has now become a key part of James’s presentations to parents and staff.
He’ll often choose to finish a talk by playing the song – this regularly results in tears from the audience!
Nick Vujicic
Nick Vujicic has endless gratitude for what he does have and what he can do and his positive attitude has inspired many millions around the world.
A video clip about Nick’s story and his approach to life has played a part in James’s presentations since he started speaking in schools in in 2014.
Eric Liddell
Eric Liddell was a British runner who won a gold medal in the 400m and bronze in the 200m at the 1924 Olympics in Paris. A devout Christian, he dropped out of the 100m – his strongest event – because the final was scheduled for a Sunday.
His story touched the hearts of millions through the film ‘Chariots of Fire’.
David Shone
James’s late Father, David Shone has been an inspiration throughout James’s life. His dedication to so many different areas of charitable work was a theme throughout his life. James references his great line: “Life’s about service! It’s not self that matters, but others.”
Bob Burford
Bob Buford was a cable-TV pioneer, social entrepreneur, author, and venture philanthropist.
He famously wrote the book “Halftime: Changing Your Game Plan from Success to Significance.” In the book he describes movingly the idea of the separating of our lives in to two halves.
Sir Anthony Seldon
We are honoured to have Sir Anthony Seldon as the Patron of I Can & I Am. He has been a passionate supporter and enthusiast of the charity since James began it in 2014.
His wisdom and experience has proven invaluable. Sir Anthony has also been incredibly generous with the time he gives to the charity.
James's Book
"After Lights Out" is a book of 100 inspirational blogs from James Shone,beautifully illustrated by our friend Sara Hornby. While the book is supplied on a gift basis, a suggested donation of £15 plus post and packing would be gratefully received. Contact us to order your copy.
Request a Copy