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Keynote Speaker

Ian Hill


Ian Hill believes County fairs are not relics of the past but the foundations for the future. He sees them as sacred gathering grounds where ordinary people do extraordinary things to impact every citizen from toddler to those in the sunset of their days.

That belief drove Ian to launch You Make THE Difference—a national initiative already active in more than 22 states across the Country in just 8 months. You Make THE Difference reignites pride in the county fair, rebuilds volunteerism, and equips the Difference Makers who keep fairs, and agricultural societies alive with the tools the times require.

Ian is an award-winning humanitarian, world record–setting innovator, and professional development pioneer. He founded Let Them Be Kids, honored globally as one of the most innovative social programs in the world. Ian broke the World Record for the longest speech—51 hours straight to raise funds for youth in crisis—and at 57, he became one of the oldest men to ever play college football to spotlight the alarming suicide rates amongst farmers.

His contributions have been recognized both nationally and internationally by organizations such as the Martin Luther King Jr. Commission, the Stand for Children organization and even a nomination by the Prime Minister of Canada as Social Innovator of the Year.

His humanitarian efforts, most notably through the Let Them Be Kids initiative, have touched more than 170 communities across North America. By spearheading the construction of playgrounds and essential infrastructure in underserved areas, Ian has provided tangible, life-changing support to thousands of children. This project was recognized by the World Leisure Congress as one of the most innovative social leisure programs globally, a testament to Ian’s commitment to making a measurable difference. When he saw a need for an alternative to traditional education for at-risk youth, he founded Nevada's first charter school.

Ian’s belief in the power of action is also reflected in his personal achievements. From breaking a Guinness World Record for the longest public speaking marathon—50 straight hours of speaking to raise funds for at-risk youth—to playing college football at the age of 57 for Men's Mental Health awareness, Ian has shown that he practices what he preaches. Each of these were designed to inspire others and highlight critical issues like mental health awareness and youth empowerment.

As CEO of The Changing Point, Ian is redefining what it means to lead. His training and development programs have revolutionized performance across industries, from hospitality to government, proving that real transformation requires both visionary thinking and relentless execution. Ian’s work doesn’t stop at inspiration—he provides the tools and frameworks necessary for others to achieve success on their own terms.

Awards & Recognition

Humanitarian of the Year

  • National Council for Community and Justice
  • Martin Luther King Commission

Child Advocate of the Year

  • Stand for Children Organization

World-wide Innovative Social Leisure Program Award

  • World Leisure Congress

Prime Minister of Canada, Social Innovator of the Year Award

  • Nominated
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