As SDAHO prepares to celebrate 100 years of serving South Dakota’s health care community, we are excited to welcome Justin Wren — former professional MMA fighter, bestselling author, entrepreneur and founder of Fight For The Forgotten — as the Closing Keynote Speaker at the 2026 SDAHO Annual Convention.
Bullied as a child, Justin turned to martial arts and eventually became a successful professional MMA fighter. But behind his success, he faced addiction, depression and a growing question about his purpose. Despite victories in the ring, he found himself wondering, “Is this it? Is this as good as it gets?”
His answer came in one of the most unlikely places — living among Indigenous communities in a remote rainforest, where he discovered that his greatest fight wasn’t against another person. It was for people.
“My career was to fight against people, but my calling was to fight for people.”
That realization led Justin to establish Fight For The Forgotten, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering marginalized Indigenous communities. Since 2013, the organization has helped provide more than 52,000 people with access to clean drinking water, secured thousands of acres of land, supported sustainable housing, education and health care initiatives, and helped individuals move from slavery into freedom.
Today, Justin brings his powerful story to audiences around the world, challenging people to recognize their own ability to create meaningful change through their careers, communities and everyday lives.
Be There for Inspiration
There may be no better message to close SDAHO’s milestone 100th Annual Convention.
For a century, South Dakota’s health care professionals and organizations have answered the call to serve others, strengthen communities and make a difference. This September, we’ll honor that incredible legacy while looking ahead to the people, ideas and possibilities that will shape our next century.
Join us and experience Justin’s inspiring message in person — along with exceptional keynote speakers, educational sessions, networking, special anniversary experiences and a celebration 100 years in the making.
Learn more about Justin Wren at Justinwrenspeaks.com.
Ready to join us? Visit SDAHO.org to learn more and register for SDAHO’s milestone 100th Annual Convention.
