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EVENT LINEUP
Who We Are
MELISSA MARSHALL
Musical Performer / Co-Host
Canadian East Coast country/pop/rock artist Melissa Marshall is forging a path into the country music scene. She has opened for Aaron Goodvin, Chris Cummings, Frankie Ballard, Brooke Eden, performed alongside Chris Buck Band and more. She has been a Music NB award nominee, recognized for her previous releases including 'Highway 83' charting on the Canadian Country Billboard chart.
Following her further delve into the craft of song writing and artist development, Melissa is ready to debut her fresh new sound and single, 'Missin’ U', releasing June 16th to all country radio and streaming platforms. This edgy, fun and upbeat song is the first release from her illuminating debut EP album, 'Phoenix In The Fire', set to release this upcoming Fall.
'Missin’ U' tells a story of being single, happy, confident and not looking for love and then that special person walks into your life when you least expect it. “I wasn’t looking for anything when he walked into my life, but we hit it off right away. We fell in love and became best friends; my ride or die. It didn’t take long for me to realize that he was that missing puzzle piece I didn’t know I didn’t have until we met.”
Melissa can be heard this summer on her East Coast radio tour, performing ticketed live shows campaigning 'Missin’ U' where you will hear her talk about her current single, what to expect from her next and when as well as the making of 'Phoenix In The Fire' and more.
Melissa is honoured to be on the We Believe stage, along with many other speakers and performers impacting our youth to Be The Change.
JOSH
NORRAD
Co-Host
Meet Josh Norrad, the dynamic co-host set to captivate audiences of the next WE Believe Event. Hailing from central New Brunswick, this multi-award-nominated country sensation seamlessly blends gritty country roots with a dash of rock swagger, drawing inspiration from icons like Alan Jackson, AC/DC, and Thousand Foot Krutch.
Josh's on-stage persona unleashes a powerful fusion of high-octane, rock-infused country music, reflecting his authentic "country boy" lifestyle. A seasoned performer, he's renowned for his electrifying shows, unique energy, and an uncanny ability to connect with audiences. Boasting six nominations, including 2x MNB Country Artist of the Year, Josh's music weaves a compelling narrative of country life, adventure, and triumph, rising from rock bottom.
From conquering grand stages to intimate venues, Josh is on a mission to make a lasting impact, embodying the true essence of country and the spirit of rock. Raised off the grid at his family's hunting and fishing camp, his early years entrenched a passion for outdoor adventure, from 4-wheelers to midnight river runs. Beyond the spotlight, he is a dedicated grain farmer, regularly making biannual trips to the Canadian Prairies to lend a hand on a sprawling farm in Saskatchewan.
SARAH PENNINGTON
Event Speaker
Sarah M. Pennington is a 21-year-old college student attending the Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia. She is pursuing a BFA in Film & TV with a minor in Business Management and Entrepreneurship with the hopes of becoming a film director. In addition to her academic endeavours, Sarah spends much of her time involved with motivational speaking.She is a passionate advocate on behalf of mental health and invisible disabilities and enjoys sharing her story of courage and self-love with the hope of inspiring others. Sarah loves to travel with her service dog, Daisy, across the United States and Canada as she speaks to groups of all ages and sizes. One of the highlights of Sarah’s career thus far has been her appearance on the Megyn Kelly Today Show where she discussed breaking barriers as a pageant girl.
DREW SIEGEL
Event Speaker
Drew Siegel’s journey is truly inspiring. Despite the tragedy of losing his sister Victoria at such a young age, he has channeled his grief into meaningful advocacy work through Victoria’s Voice. His dedication to preventing drug use and overdoses among young people is commendable.
His academic achievements at the University of Florida, particularly in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance, show his commitment to excellence. It’s great to see how he has also given back to his university community as a Warrington Diplomat and Business Undergraduate Mentor.
Drew’s hobbies like chess, scuba diving, pickleball, hiking, and biking, along with cherished family vacations, paint a picture of a well-rounded individual who values both personal growth and family traditions.
Drew is honored to take the We Believe stage, alongside many other outstanding speakers as he shares from his heart the impact that Victoria's Voice has on youth and families today.
Rachel Barcellona is a graduate from The University of South Florida with a bachelors degree in English and a minor in communications. Currently studying at Julliard and studying Vocal Performance in New York, along with theater. She is a national and international spokesperson for many organizations, as well as establishing her own non profit in 2021 Ability Beyond Disabilities. She has spoken at many schools and been a keynote speaker across the country. Speaking at the United Nations on World Autism Day was an experience that she will never forget! Recognized as one of the top influential people with autism along with Daryl Hannah, Dan Aykroyd and Anthony Hopkins, and recently received the gold medal from The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award which is largely based on volunteer service and community involvement.
Rachel is a writer and has been in off broadway theater and just performed at The Stand Comedy Club in New York and The Crow Comedy Club in Santa Monica California. Premiered this year at Fil Festivals across the country, a film called Mandy's Voice, I play the lead! Miss Florida for America 2023, and her passion is helping others like herself and with disabilities to lead their best life! I am honored to be on the world famous We Believe - 2025 stage again this year sharring my story of hope and overcoming life challanges.
ANNA
SVENTCHNIKOC
Event Speaker
Anna Svetchnikov, a Ukrainian-American therapist, author, and motivational speaker, is dedicated to mental health advocacy. She moved to the U.S. at 14, overcoming significant challenges. At 15, she survived a brutal mugging that led to an untreated head injury and a brain tumor, requiring surgery. At 19, a car accident caused dissociative amnesia, erasing her memory. Despite these hardships, Anna fought back, earning a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in marriage and family therapy, and is now completing her PhD.
Anna has published over 30 award-winning therapeutic books and established a nonprofit mental health organization, "I Care We All Care." Her platform, Mental Health Matters, educates people on mental wellness. She has spoken nationwide, traveled to Japan, and appeared on major TV networks like PBS, Fox, ABC, and NBC. Anna also participates in pageants, winning titles like Miss Teen Massachusetts, Miss Teen Ukraine, and World’s Most Beautiful Woman, to advocate for mental health.
Anna’s experiences inspire her talks, focusing on the theme of being limitless. She emphasizes that we are in control of our future despite adversities, discussing emotional intelligence, growth mindset, and positive psychology to help others see challenges as opportunities for growth and positive change. Anna is honored to be at We Believe in May 2025
DAVE
SMITH
Event Speaker
Empowering Mental Health Through Cultural Reconnection
Dave Smith, Co-Founder & Storyteller at First Nations Storytellers, embodies resilience and empowerment. Raised outside his First Nations culture because of the "60’s scoop", Dave's personal journey is a fusion of Indigenous heritage with broader Canadian society through his "two-eyed seeing" approach.
After quitting his job and starting down the path to reclaim his culture through First Nations Storytellers, Dave experienced a profound transformation in his mental health. Reconnecting with his roots and embracing his Indigenous identity became a source of strength and healing.
At "We Believe - Saint John Event", Dave will share his personal journey of overcoming mental health challenges through cultural reconnection and the transformative power of self-discovery. His story serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to embrace their heritage and prioritize their mental well-being. We are excited to welcome Dave to the We Believe stage in May.
LIJANA
WALLENDAS
Event Speaker
Lijana was born into an extraordinary group of artists that have commonly been referred to as the first family of the air… The Wallendas. As far back as she can remember she traveled in the unique world of the circus along with her extended family members. Growing up watching her family perform some of the most breathtaking feats on the high wire, she dreamed one day of taking her place on the very apex of the human pyramid. When Lijana was old enough to begin practicing for the act, she soon realized that it required not only courage, strength and dedication, but also the desire to show to the world what the human spirit is capable of achieving. To this day Lijana continues to carry that tradition
forward demonstrating what perseverance and dedication can achieve.
She has spent much of her life performing amazing feats all over the world including a Guinness World Record high wire pyramid in
Kurashiki, Japan and a skywalk with her brother, Nik, 100 ft in the air over Charlotte Motor Speedway.
While rehearsing for another world record breaking pyramid on the high wire, Lijana nearly lost her life falling 35 feet when the
pyramid collapsed. With the overwhelming injuries she sustained, including breaking every bone in her face, many people would
understandably never return to the wire or perform at all, but once again Lijana showed perseverance and dedication, working to heal
and regain both her strength and confidence. Facing her fears and overcoming her trauma, in 2019, Lijana made her epic comeback,
returning to the wire to perform an incredible skywalk with her brother, higher and longer than she had ever performed before.
Walking 1300 ft across and 25 stories above Times Square between the two towers, she proved to herself and the world that her
devastating fall would not be her defining moment. While still performing as an artist, costume designer, and being mom to an
incredible son, Lijana is now also sharing her inspiring message of perseverance and triumph as an inspirational speaker. She is on a mission to show people it is possible to rebound from trauma and
rebuild a meaningful life, career, and destiny.
Lijana is honored to join the speakers and performers at We Believe on May 15, 2025 at TD Station.
RACHEL HILTZ
Singer
Rachel Hiltz, a native of the Saint John area, pursued her passion for dance by graduating from a Dance Performance Studies program in Toronto. She then returned to the Maritimes, where she taught and performed in Halifax, Nova Scotia. In 2016, Rachel completed the LPN course at NBCC in Fredericton. While she still enjoys singing and dancing whenever possible, she currently works for a family physician in Rothesay, cherishing the opportunity to serve her hometown community.
Rachel is actively involved in her community, volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters and participating in her church. She and her husband, Matthew, are proud parents of two young daughters and are grateful to be raising them close to family in the beautiful province of New Brunswick.
Rachel is honored to be asked to sing O Canada at We Believe.
BECKY ARSENEAULT
Event Speaker
Becky Arseneault of Fredericton, New Brunswick, known lovingly as Layla's mom, is a dedicated mother of Layla, her 16-year-old son, and her three stepchildren. She is a passionate advocate and full-time human resources manager with the Government of New Brunswick. Following the tragic loss of her daughter Layla in a car accident on May 5th, 2024, Becky founded the “Love for Layla” campaign, a heartfelt initiative aimed at spreading awareness about making choices that can save lives and the importance of making it home.
Through “Love for Layla,” Becky emphasizes that someone who loves you is always waiting for you. This campaign serves not only as a tribute to Layla’s memory but also as a reminder of the unwavering love that parents, families, and friends have for their loved ones. Becky’s mission is to ensure that everyone understands the impact of their choices on those who care about them and to encourage safe habits.
In addition to her current role, Becky has previously worked with the Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick, where she focused on promoting resiliency for those experiencing mental health challenges. Her diverse background in human resources and mental health advocacy enriches her approach to community engagement and support.
Becky’s journey has transformed her grief into purpose and has become a beacon of hope for others who have experienced similar tragedies. Her commitment to this cause reflects her outstanding love for Layla and her desire to help others avoid the pain of loss.
In her spare time, Becky enjoys gardening, reading, and spending time in nature, she loves connecting with her community, sharing stories of love and resilience, and honoring Layla’s legacy. Through her work, she hopes to inspire others to cherish their loved ones and make it home safely. Necky is honored to be speaking at We Believe, on May 15, 2025
FRED
STOKES
Event Speaker
Fred Stokes has a personal mission to positively enhance the life of every person who comes across his path. His down to earth personality and his uncanny ability to connect with people is what sets Fred Stokes apart from other athletes of his caliber”
Fred attended High School in a small town called Vidalia, Georgia. Fred excelled in Basketball, and Track. However, it was not until his senior year that he decided to give football a try.. As a result of his outstanding play on the football field in high school, Fred was offered a full scholarship to play football for Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, GA. While at Georgia Southern University, Fred played on two National Championship teams (1985 and 1986). Fred was one of two players on his team voted First Team All-America after his senior season as an Offensive Tackle..
In 1987, Fred was drafted into the National Football League where he would spend the next ten years playing Defensive End for the Los Angeles/St. Louis Rams, Washington Redskins, and the New Orleans Saints. Fred had the awesome privilege of playing in, and winning, Super Bowl XXVI with the 1991 Washington Redskins against the Buffalo Bills. In that game, Fred recorded two and a half sacks, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. Fred's teammates affectionately labeled him "Big Play Stokes” because of his knack for making the “BIG PLAY” at just the right time.
After retiring from the NFL, Fred went back to his Alma Mater (Georgia Southern University) and completed his degree in 1998. He believes that is one of his greatest accomplishments.
Fred and his wife Regina have three sons and they currently live in Orlando, FL.
Fred is STOKED to be here at WE Believe, New Brunswick and he’s honored to have the opportunity to be speaking to all of you today!
JUSTIN
NASH
Event Speaker
Meet Justin Nash, the founder of Never Give Up, a movement that is dedicated to inspiring resilience and perseverance in the face of life's challenges. At 40 years young, Justin embodies the power of transformation and holistic healing. Having overcome addiction and mental health struggles, he is living proof that it's never too late to rewrite your story. Through his journey, Justin has embraced holistic healing practices, discovering the profound impact of mind, body, and soul connection on well-being. With unwavering determination and a compassionate spirit, he now dedicates his life to spreading messages of hope and empowerment. Justin is honoured to have been asked to empower others on the We Believe stage.
ROXANNA LEWIS
Event Speaker
Roxanna Lewis’s approach as a storyteller and filmmaker is a culmination of her experiences as theatrical director, choreographer, dancer and actress. She’s worked on both sides of the camera on feature films, commercials and music videos. Her live work has been presented across the USA from Broadway with “Superman,” Christopher Reeves, to the Presidential Task Force on Disabilities in Washington DC, to performances for a marquess in France. Her career has fortuitously led her to create work for and with talented artists who identify as paraplegic, wheelchair users, d/Deaf, blind, neurodiverse as well as neurotypical. Roxanna’s work promotes understanding and helps create a world where everyone, especially youth, feel like they matter and belong.
Roxanna still loves to play dress up, laugh till it hurts, dance whenever possible and is ecstatic to be included as a featured guest at We Believe to talk about the healing power of creativity and courage to follow your dreams!