WeSpeak Celebrates Success Of 6th Boot Camp
WeSpeak, a nonprofit for women in public speaking, held their 6th Boot Camp on November 3.
A spokesperson said, “WeSpeak, a charitable organisation dedicated to empowering women in the art of public speaking, is thrilled to announce the success of its 6th Boot Camp, a powerful event on their annual roster that helps to boost the confidence and communication skills of women from all walks of life.
“Held on Friday November 3, the event brought together a diverse group of women of all ages, industry sectors and backgrounds, eager to enhance their public-speaking abilities. Through a combination of expert facilitation from Principal Coach, Michael Crystal, as well as interactive practice sessions, supported by WeSpeak’s incredible volunteer coaches, the Boot Camp was a game-changer for participants, leaving them with new-found confidence and connection with their authentic voice.
U.S. Consul General Ms. Karen Grissette with WeSpeak Board Members Carolyn Myers [Chair], Kathleen Faries, Malika Taylor and Gemma Godfrey.
“Throughout the day, attendees heard from a range of speakers, including Patrina ‘PowerGirl’ O’Connor Paynter, who shared a heartfelt reflection on her public-speaking journey, as well as world-record breaking Pacific rower Theresa Patricios, who spoke about the ‘Power of Overcoming Fear’. Other speakers included Deshay Caines, who demonstrated the use of the WeSpeak 7 in action and a special appearance from WeSpeak Coach Leah Dean, who shared an inspiring message, as well as a copy of her book ‘Assemble the Tribe’ for everyone in the room. U.S. Consul General, Ms Karen Grissette, also joined the event, chatting with coaches and attendees who shared their boot camp experience.
“At the start of the day, using interactive polling, boot camp participants were asked how they felt about speaking publicly – and 77% of women said they felt ‘nervous, anxious or terrified’. When asked to describe how they felt, responses included ‘overwhelmed ‘awkward’, ‘self-conscious’ and even ‘[feeling] sick.’ At the end of the day, participants were asked the same questions, but this time the answers were much more positive, with 80% of women now feeling ‘ok, confident or excited’ about speaking up. And when asked how they felt at the end of the day, responses included ‘Empowered’, ‘Inspired‘, ‘Equipped’ and ‘Braver’.”
Boot Camper Rose Jones takes the mic during Speak Up session.
Carolyn Myers, Chair for WeSpeak Bermuda commented, “Through the WeSpeak Boot Camp, we aim to create an environment where women can feel safe and supported enough to unlock their full potential and find their voice. The impact of this event is evident in the feedback from its participants. We are thrilled to see the positive transformation in these women and we look forward to supporting them on their journey as they approach public speaking with new-found confidence and determination.”
The spokesperson said, “During the event, WeSpeak also announced the launch of its new website and Community Circle, an online portal dedicated to helping women develop public-speaking skills and achieve their goals.
“By joining WeSpeak’s Community Circle, individuals have access to an extensive collection of helpful resources to help cultivate more confidence and presence with their own authentic voice. This online library has been developed by experts in their field, including Principal Coach, Michael Crystal, as well as several of our talented WeSpeak Coaches and committee members.
WeSpeak’s 6th Boot Camp Cohort
“Joining WeSpeak’s Community Circle is easy – and it’s free, thanks to the support of its partners, sponsors and supporters. To join, visit: www.wespeak.bm.”
Myers continued, “WeSpeak thanks its partners and event sponsors for their support, as boot camps like this would not be possible without their help: Thank you to our Partners Appleby Global Services, Butterfield, Chubb and EY and Event Sponsors Aon, Argus, Ascot, Athene, AXA XL, Clarien, Legal & General and Mosaic Insurance, as well as Bermuda Wine Concierge and Burrows Lightbourne for their sponsorship of the networking reception.”
The spokesperson said, “For more information about WeSpeak and its initiatives, visit www.wespeak.bm.”
