Shameless Idealists to air on CTV

As 2012 comes to a close, we look back on a year of great accomplishments in social activism. For a glimpse of those who have led the way (and to get inspired to make a difference in the world), you won’t want to miss this: four separate yet equally compelling interviews on CTV with some of the world’s most successful, inspiring people.

Shameless Idealists CTV broadcasts:

• Rick Hansen:  Thursday, Dec .27th @ 7:00pm
• Magic Johnson: Thursday, Dec. 27th @ 7:30pm
• Nelly Furtado: Friday, Dec. 28th @ 7:00pm
• Richard Branson Dec 28th @ 7:30pm

Airing over two nights next week, Shameless Idealists, produced by Kensington Communications Inc., is a series of intimate portraits of celebrities who are creating positive social change. In the series – hosted by Craig Kielburger, co-founder of Free The Children – the likes of Magic Johnson, Nelly Furtado Rick Hansen and Sir Richard Branson each share how they emerged from modest roots to great acclaim.

Even more riveting, you’ll discover how each of these celebrities has converted their fame into an effective force for change. Woven throughout are personal observations by Craig, along with archival material, which illustrate key moments in the remarkable lives of these shameless idealists.

For philanthropist and entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson, who founded Virgin as a mail order record retailer in 1970, with great success comes great responsibility. He proves this every day: the Virgin Group now comprises 200 companies in more than 30 countries, and Branson continues to champion social and environmental issues.

“There is a story behind every story,” says Nelly Furtado, the JUNO and Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter who recently released her fifth album, The Spirit Indestructible. She’s also a Free The Children ambassador, having travelled to Kenya and seen first-hand the life-changing effect that education has on girls in developing communities. “Everyone can make a difference.”

Canadian paralympian and activist Rick Hansen works every day to improve the quality of life for newly injured individuals. He also strives to inspire a new generation to join him in creating a healthy and sustainable world where all can contribute in a meaningful way. His inspiring message: “There is hope inside difficulties.”

Earvin “Magic” Johnson tells Craig that, “I want to write my own story.” The retired NBA Hall of Famer, entrepreneur, philanthropist and motivational speaker is definitely doing that: he actively supports the educational, health and social needs of ethnically diverse and underserved urban communities.

To hear these heroes speak of their passions is to believe in them. They are dedicated and determined to make the world a better place. They have all overcome obstacles, have persevered and continue to thrive.

And they are all, undoubtedly, shameless idealists.

For more information and to preview these amazing interviews, visit www.shamelessidealists.com