The themes he addresses, resilience, leadership, motivation, performance and inclusion, resonate strongly, as they are concrete, tangible and deeply human.
Born on December 7, 1976, in Montreal, Georges Laraque is the eldest of three children of parents originally from Haiti. Always leading an active lifestyle, the Laraque family placed great importance on physical activity.
Practicing judo, figure skating, speed skating, and soccer — his favourite sport — Georges Laraque was constantly on the move from a very young age.
The family moved to Sorel-Tracy when young Georges was five years old. Far from the atmosphere of Montreal, Sorel-Tracy confronted the family with racism and bullying. Georges was not spared and came close to giving up on the dream he had long cherished — playing in the NHL.
It was while reading the biography of Jackie Robinson, the first Black player to join a Major League Baseball team, that Georges found the strength to roll up his sleeves and believe in his dream.
Despite the challenges, the family remained in Sorel-Tracy for several years and continued to grow in an environment built on discipline, personal ethics, and respect.
It was only many years later that they returned to Montreal, where they settled permanently.
A hard worker, Georges steadily climbed the ranks of minor hockey until joining the QMJHL with the Saint-Jean Lynx at just 16 years old. Then came the moment that would truly launch his career: winning the Memorial Cup in 1996 with the Granby Predators.
This triumph is not just a title, it is a turning point.
It reveals a player with natural leadership, exemplary discipline and a unifying presence.
Drafted by the Edmonton Oilers, Georges began a remarkable career that would span 13 seasons in the NHL:
Drafted by the Edmonton Oilers, Georges began a remarkable career that would span 13 seasons in the NHL:
During the 2004–2005 lockout, he played in Sweden, a human and sporting experience that broadened his perspective and strengthened his desire to contribute beyond the ice.
He later wore the colors of the Phoenix Coyotes and the Pittsburgh Penguins, before experiencing a deeply emotional moment: finishing his career in the uniform of his childhood team, the Montreal Canadiens.
to support vulnerable children and communities.
focused on aid and sustainable development.
in line with his personal values.
to encourage a more ethical and responsible lifestyle.
In 2010, he became politically involved by serving as Deputy Leader of the Green Party of Canada, continuing his commitment to the environment and social justice.
In his book The Power to Believe, Georges shares his journey with disarming authenticity.
He recounts his childhood, his challenges, his identity, his career, his doubts, and the moments that shaped the man he has become.
A human, inspiring, and deeply honest story that offers a unique perspective on perseverance, confidence, and inner strength.
From his humble beginnings to his rise in the NHL, from his social commitments to his conferences, one thing remains constant: Georges wants to make a difference.
He wants to show that everyone has the ability to push beyond their limits and turn what once seemed impossible into a driver of success.
