“Christian Paige and the ShaderMakers organizers are game-changers in getting students, staff, and organizations to think about their communities.

ShadeMakers has changed how my students view their school and what can be done to make sure it meets the needs of all people. They are focused on the impact over time and leaving a legacy for others to follow and benefit from and that is the greatest gift we can leave our communities. The work is transformative.”

“The last few years, our school was in a place where we realized something important was missing, the foundational connection that builds a strong and unified community. Christian Paige and the Shademakers stepped in at just the right time and was a game-changer.

Before stepping foot on campus, they took the time to understand our school’s climate and listen to the hopes and vision of our community. With authenticity, care and some spice, Christian connected with both students and staff, meeting people where they were. He brought insight and heart, encouraging all of us to reflect on our role, recognize what’s possible, and consider how we can move forward together.

Christian challenges with genuine compassion. He inspires growth beyond the moment. He plants seeds, nurtures development, and equips schools to carry on the work: growing, pruning, and building stronger connections long after his time with us ends.

It’s been exciting to see the impact on our students and staff as the work takes root, and we know will continue to grow for years to come. The work that will change the world…3 feet at a time.”

“We have been lucky enough to get to work with Christian and the Shademakers across multiple schools and over multiple years. Christian Paige brings a dynamic blend of spoken-word artistry and educational insight to every school and district he partners with. Through performances, workshops, and keynote presentations, he guides students and educators toward deeper self-expression, stronger community bonds, and more inclusive learning environments.

Above all, Christian helps people recognize their own humanity and the humanity of others.”

“Auburn Riverside High School has been lucky to have worked with Christian and ShadeMakers closely for the last few years for keynotes, workshops and small group sessions.

Christian has given students tools to work as stakeholders in developing our school-wide SIP plan, he has Lead leadership training and helped guide our ASB and club leaders' vision for the future of ARHS. This has led to an increase in student voice throughout our school, more students attending and speaking at our Town Hall meetings, a larger and more diverse group of students taking Leadership and running for ASB Office as well as a greater sense of ownership on our campus.

Christian gets to know your campus culture, your students and staff and tailors his workshops, keynotes and training to your school. Christian and ShadeMakers is the best return on investment we have made as a school, and I am excited to continue our relationship into the future!”

“Bishop Blanchet High School has proudly partnered with Christian Paige and the Shademakers in various capacities since 2018. His love for students, his faith, and of course his hometown of Tacoma are all highly visible in his authentic and dynamic approach to educating communities.

Christian has facilitated student and faculty/staff trainings, led spoken word workshops, and keynoted at several Blanchet assemblies and conferences. Notably, Christian has facilitated at Blanchet’s annual student Diversity Leadership Summit since its inception in 2018 and is always a highlight to our students’ experience of the summit.

When Christian speaks, students and faculty/staff alike intently lean in and listen. His vulnerable and inclusive approach to challenging discussions on difference and adversity consistently creates an environment of genuine curiosity and an openness to understanding ourselves and one another.”