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Michael Maisey went from former gang member, addict and suicidal convict to successful award-winning author, motivational speaker and the founder of a successful not-for-profit organisation.
As a youth and teenager, Michael’s life was shaped by abuse, turbulence and trauma which resulted in extreme feelings of guilt and loss. This led to criminality, drink and substance abuse, with his addiction to heroin starting at 12 years old.
His subsequent recovery and his transformational journey of self-reflection has seen him go on to set up and run a successful social enterprise Change is Possible, known as The CIP Project, helping people dealing with addiction, trauma, grief, poor mental health, or those struggling following their release from prison.
Michael’s inspirational story is detailed in his award winning book Young Offender. He has also appeared on TV, been interviewed in national newspapers and appeared on many podcasts about his life and his passion for helping others.
His power as a speaker and motivator is not just telling the story of what has happened but also his deep understanding of the why.
His TEDx talk has been hailed as a masterpiece.
It was at the age of 16 that Michael received his first custodial sentence, the start of a life of crime that looked destined to destroy him.
During a later prison sentence aged 18 Michael was struggling with heroin withdrawal and he tried to end his life, but his suicide attempt was thwarted by a prison guard. In that moment, Michael realised that he wanted to live.
After his release from prison, Michael started his journey of recovery and self-reflection, leaving the world of drugs and addiction behind and replacing it with self-awareness and a love of helping people.
In 2018, Michael set up The CIP Project, not-for-profit organisation based in the beautiful Devon countryside at a 25 acre outdoor retreat centre, providing self-development retreats and workshops. Over 2000 people suffering from addiction, mental health, PTSD and childhood trauma receive support every year through the project.
In 2019, Michael released his inspirational book Young Offender, a memoir exploring his life growing up on a West London council estate, sexual abuse, domestic violence and drug addiction.
Charting his road to recovery, the book shows how deep self-reflection, a commitment to being sober and clean enabled Michael to see that change is possible and that his life could be turned around. His autobiography won two literary awards and featured as a best seller.
After becoming sober and turning his life around, Michael became known for helping people in his west London community, particularly those experiencing what he had gone through. In 2014 he was honoured by the Metropolitan Police and the London Borough of Hounslow for his services to the community.
Michael talks passionately about the following three subjects in three different talks which are relatable to people from all walks of life.
“Michael’s talk was truly inspiring. He has a unique ability to connect with his audience and inspire them to take action. I would highly recommend him as a speaker.”
Brian Nixon – Head of School TASIS
“Michael is an exceptional speaker who delivers powerful messages with passion and conviction. He has a unique ability to inspire people to take action and achieve their goals.”