Hashim Garrett grew up in Brooklyn, New York. As a young boy he was picked on and bullied. Hashim realized that he could avoid the torment if he befriended his tormentors, and he eventually joined a gang. There was something powerful about having others fear him for a change. When he was good, nobody seemed to notice him, but when he was bad, everyone knew his name.

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At 15, Hashim was shot and paralyzed from the waist down. Nothing but tragedy could have broken the spell of bad decision making. As he lay on the ground wondering if he would live or die, his eyes were opened, and Hashim decided to change. Hashim has forgiven his assailant. Ironically, the shooter was beholden to the same series of bad choices that he himself had once experienced.

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Hashim has not let his paralysis prevent him from leading an active life of remarkable achievements. He majored in Investment Banking at Rutgers University, and from 1995-2001 was Violence Prevention Coordinator at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, speaking to children about the causes of conflicts. Delivering this empowering message brought about yet another transformative moment for Hashim, realizing that this was his life's work.

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Today, Hashim is married and has two children. He works with a vast diaspora of organizations, providing lectures, presentations, workshops and retreats. His approach is simple: The message is positive and non-religious, stressing self respect and the unique value of each individual. Hashim has delivered this message of hope to hundreds of thousands of individuals around the world, acquiring an impressive catalog of press over the span of his 20 year career. His social commentary is sought after throughout North America, Europe, and Australia. With a unique combination of conviction and charisma, he inspires corporate teams, non-profit associations, students and educators to live happier and more successful lives.