A Caribbean Heart, a Global Vision, and a Mission to Inspire

Kris Granger: Speaker, lecturer, brand specialist, author

Kris Granger’s life is a vibrant tapestry woven from his Trinidad and Tobago roots, his journey through a life-altering battle with cancer, and his emergence as a transformative figure in marketing and education.

[Article from THNK MACHINE -> Read more here]

Based in Gothenburg, Sweden, Kris’s passion for marketing reflects his deep understanding of brand storytelling. Yet, it is his personal story—marked by resilience, cultural pride, and a profound commitment to empowering young people—that truly defines him. Through his work at THNK MACHINE and his heartfelt writings, Kris embodies the spirit of a Caribbean man making a global impact while staying true to his origins.

From Trinidad and Tobago to Sweden: A Journey of Identity and Adaptation

Born and raised in Arima, Trinidad and Tobago, Kris grew up immersed in the island’s rich cultural mosaic. The rhythms of Carnival shaping his early understanding of storytelling and instilling a deep appreciation for his heritage. His undergraduate degree from London Metropolitan University gave him the technological grounding for a global career, but his heart remained tied to the Caribbean’s warmth and vibrancy. Kris’s early career saw him working with iconic Trinidadian brands like Caribbean Airlines and Angostura, crafting campaigns that beautifully captured the island’s spirit.

As Kris notes in a THNK MACHINE article, “Marketing is about understanding the heartbeat of your audience, not just their wallet,” a philosophy deeply rooted in his Trinidadian upbringing, where community and connection are paramount.

In 2020, Kris’s life took a significant turn when he moved to Sweden, navigating the complexities of residency during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Leaving Trinidad, where lockdowns created an “eerie, quiet society,” for Sweden’s more open approach was a cultural shock. His decision to relocate, showcased his courage and adaptability. Settling in Gothenburg, Sweden, Kris embraced the challenge of balancing his Caribbean identity with life in a new cultural context, a theme that permeates his work and worldview.

A Battle with Cancer: A Catalyst for Renewed Purpose

Kris’s journey has not been without profound challenges. A cancer diagnosis tested his resilience, reshaping his perspective on life and work. While he keeps the details private, those close to him describe this period as transformative. Emerging from this battle, Kris found a deeper sense of purpose, focusing on authenticity and impact. His LinkedIn posts reflect this shift, often emphasizing gratitude and the importance of meaningful work. One colleague wrote, “Kris has a way of turning challenges into opportunities, always with a smile and a genuine heart,” capturing the optimism that defines him to this day.

His experience with cancer has fueled Kris’s passion for living intentionally. It is evident in his work – whether crafting campaigns or pursuing his other personal mission: to inspire others. His battle with cancer didn’t just strengthen him; it cemented his calling to uplift others, particularly young people, through education and mentorship.

THNK MACHINE: A Platform for Authentic Connection

Kris’s commitment to meaningful storytelling has found a solid home at THNK MACHINE, a fresh speakers’ bureau and online publication that connects forward- thinking organizations with insightful perspectives. Through his articles, workshops, and masterclasses, Kris shares insights drawn from his global experience, from Trinidad’s Carnival to Sweden’s corporate boardrooms. His sessions, often held virtually on platforms like Frame VR, focus on authentic storytelling and strategic thinking. “Great marketing doesn’t shout; it listens, learns, and then speaks with purpose,” he writes on THNK MACHINE, a reflection of his belief that marketing should connect rather than convince.

At THNK MACHINE, Kris draws on his work with brands like Volvo Group, Nestlé and Domino’s, as well as his Trinidadian roots, to teach marketers how to craft campaigns that resonate. His masterclasses are intimate, encouraging participants to find their unique voice. For Kris, it is not just about teaching tactics; it is about fostering confidence and creativity, a mission shaped by his own journey of overcoming adversity.

Life Goals and Passion for Educating Young People

Kris’s life goals are deeply tied to his passion for educating and inspiring young people, a mission rooted in his heritage and amplified by his personal experiences. Growing up in Arima, he saw how cultural pride and mentorship could shape young minds. This belief drives his work as a lecturer and mentor, where he seeks to empower youth to dream big while staying true to themselves. His academic work at institutions like the Arthur Lok Jack Graduate School of Business reflects this commitment, as he designs courses in social media strategy and branding that encourage students to think creatively and critically.

Kris’s passion for education is also evident in his efforts to bridge cultural gaps. In a presentation at the University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, he highlighted

Trinidad and Tobago’s creative sector, using Carnival as a case study to show how cultural innovation can inspire young entrepreneurs. “The greatest show on earth,” he called Carnival, emphasizing its potential to teach youth about branding and global influence. His work with organizations like the Rainbow Rescue Children’s home in Trinidad further showcases his dedication to helping young people set and achieve ambitious goals, particularly in underserved communities.

For Kris, educating youth isn’t just about imparting knowledge; it’s about instilling wisdom and resilience. He believes that exposing young people to diverse cultures and ways of thinking gives them a distinct advantage in navigating life’s complexities. Kris’s mentorship is personal, often drawing on his own story of overcoming cancer to show students that challenges can be a catalyst for growth.

Shaping Entrepreneurs in the Caribbean

Through partnerships with the Trinidad and Tobago National Entrepreneurship Development Company (NEDCO), the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the United States Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago, Kris has trained hundreds of Caribbean entrepreneurs on Digital Transformation and Strategy to shift mindsets for global business development. His passion to “push the Caribbean forward” is strongly evidenced in his tireless commitment to upskilling entrepreneurs across sectors, in particular the Creative Sectors (Music, Film and Fashion).

A Storyteller with a Caribbean Soul

As a keynote speaker and lecturer, Kris brings his Caribbean warmth to global stages, blending humor and wisdom to captivate audiences. His talks often explore the power of authentic storytelling, a skill honed through years of working with Caribbean brands and amplified by his life in Sweden. Kris Granger isn’t just a marketer; he’s a mentor, a survivor, and a Caribbean soul inspiring the world.

[Article from THNK MACHINE -> Read more here]