Speaking from the heart: The power of human connection

I’ve never thought much about what it’s like for the person on the stage. But now that I’m the one speaking at events, it’s often on my mind.

Every time I take the stage, I feel nervous. However, I feel strengthened by mentors and audiences who encourage me to continue sharing my story authentically. One especially touching moment occurred after speaking at the Zonta International convention in Brisbane. A woman from Guadeloupe approached me after my presentation. Despite the language barrier—she spoke only French—her heartfelt message transcended words. She said, “I do not understand English. But my heart understood every word you spoke.”

Her words brought me to tears because they affirmed that I was speaking with a power beyond my own—the universal power of human connection. It was a poignant reminder not just of how far I've come through the support and guidance of mentors but that when we speak from our hearts, we can transcend language barriers and cultural divides and unite in the universal language of love that surpasses all understanding.