Britton-Hecla School has welcomed two motivational speakers in recent months, each bringing an energetic message aimed at encouraging students to believe in themselves and persevere through challenges.
Last week, fourth through seventh grade students heard from Nick “Sunshine” Tokman, a motivational speaker best known for his appearance on the Discovery Channel’s hit show “Deadliest Catch,” which follows crab fishermen working in the harsh conditions of the Bering Sea. Tokman earned his nickname for maintaining a positive attitude in one of the most demanding jobs in the world.
During his presentation, Tokman shared his personal story of overcoming struggles, mistakes and failures, and encouraged students to listen to their inner voice rather than negative outside influences. He talked about how fear of failure, pressure from friends and family, and self-doubt can lead people to make choices they do not truly want to make.
“We all have this voice inside of us that guides us,” Tokman told students, noting that goals and dreams may change throughout life, but it is important to stay true to oneself. His central message to students was simple: “Become your own captain.”
Tokman also explained how he came to be part of “Deadliest Catch.” He said his grandfather introduced him to the show while he was in college and feeling restless. Looking for a new path, Tokman decided to pursue fishing in Alaska, despite his family’s concerns. With no connections, he flew north, hitchhiked from the airport, and spent weeks walking the pier asking for work. After taking on temporary and odd jobs, he eventually caught his break when he joined the crew of the Northwestern, a vessel featured on the show.
Tokman said he continues to draw inspiration from his favorite book, “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, quoting, “When a person really desires something, all the universe conspires to help that person realize his dream.” He closed by urging students to “be who you are, tune out the outside voices, push past the fears, and become your own captain.”
Earlier this fall, Britton-Hecla students were also inspired by another motivational speaker, Terrence Talley, who visited the school in October. Middle school and high school students attended Talley’s presentation, which was made possible in part through Naddy Grant funds used to bring a positive motivational speaker to the school. Talley, who is originally from Minneapolis and now lives in Wisconsin, centered his message on perseverance and never giving up.
“I believe what happens to a student today will affect your community tomorrow,” Talley said. “That’s why it’s important to not only educate their minds, but their hearts as well.”
Talley shared stories of students who had faced significant struggles and found the strength to keep going after hearing his message. He also emphasized the importance of having supportive people in students’ lives and gave students an opportunity to receive encouragement from teachers, including the chance for a hug.
School counselor Sheila Anderson said the impact of Talley’s visit was clear in the days that followed. “After his presentation, students wrote thank-you letters to Terrence, and over half of the students said he was their favorite speaker ever,” Anderson said. “Many students indicated that his message was one they needed to hear.”
School officials said both speakers left a lasting impression, offering students encouragement, perspective, and reminders that perseverance, self-belief, and support can help guide them through challenges now and in the future.
