Keynote Speaker
Vishal Narbheram
Founder of Onward Shift | Electrician | Mental Health Advocate
With 15 years’ experience as an electrician, Vishal Narbheram has seen first-hand the pressures that come with life in the construction industry long hours, high demands and the unspoken struggles that too many people face alone.
Battling ADHD, OCD and experiencing suicidal thoughts twice in his life, Vishal found a lifeline in therapy and the power of speaking openly. Those experiences transformed his perspective and gave him a new mission: to break the silence around mental health and prevent others from reaching crisis point.
Today, as the founder of Onward Shift, Vishal leads a movement to reduce suicide rates and improve mental wellbeing across the construction industry. Through honest storytelling, workshops and workplace talks, he shares his lived experience to raise awareness, challenge stigma and show that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness!
Vishal’s message is simple but vital: no one should face their mental health struggles alone. With honesty, understanding and support, we can create a culture where every worker goes home safe, in body and mind.
Podcast with Vishal
My personal journey with Onward Shift and answer to some of the most frequently asked questions about my transition from electrician to entrepreneur. I talk about the challenges of self-belief, something I still struggle with, and offer insights into how I’ve navigated tough times. This episode is a candid look at the ups and downs of pursuing your dreams, finding fulfilment, and learning to believe in yourself along the way.
Blogs by Vishal
Reviews
The Power of Onward Shift – A true moment we’ll forever remember.
We had the honour to have Onward Shift join our virtual event at Kier Transportation in commemoration of International Men’s Day. We specifically asked for Vish to share his personal story, reflections and answer any questions from across the division.
Words cannot describe how engaging he is, within in person and virtual setting. A true professional and true icon, passionately speaking on what needs to change within the industry but also sharing actionable tips for everyone to utilise.
Across the division we had continuous feedback about how open, honest and raw Vish and his persona is. Something that isn’t taught, a true expert.
We cannot thank you enough for this session and excited to have more sessions with Vish and Onward Shift at Kier Transportation!
We invited Vish to speak to our construction students as part of our New City College Hackney Campus Mental Wealth Festival and the impact was outstanding. He delivered a powerful and honest talk about his journey with mental health while working as an electrician, which really resonated with our learners.
We had 130 students in attendance, and they were fully engaged throughout. They asked thoughtful questions, and many even stayed behind afterwards to speak with him one-on-one a true reflection of how much his story connected with them.
Vish was completely authentic and humble, and his message was both inspirational and meaningful. His openness about the importance of seeking help and how it changed his life left a lasting impression on our students.
Keep up the great work, Vishal you are making a real difference and leading positive change in the construction industry, especially around men’s mental health.
I would highly recommend this experience to any college or construction company looking to support and inspire their people.
Vish’s mission to make it easier for men working in construction to talk about their mental health is a crucial one if we are to be a happy and healthy nation. His honesty, humour and empathy shine through. He really connects with his audience. I came away thinking much more deeply about the pressures men experience in the world of work and how much more we need to support them.
Book Vishal Narbheram Here
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, we offer tailored talks for companies, colleges and organisations.
- A live talk based on lived experience
- Optional Q&A
- Flexible delivery depending on your audience
Pricing varies depending on the session and the speaker but typically starts from £500 per speech.
Yes, we can travel across the UK and beyond.
- Site teams
- Apprentices
- Leadership teams
- Colleges and training providers
We support the construction industry but are always keen to share construction stories with other industries aswell.
