One powerful message that I gleaned from the first few chapters of Yuval Noah Harari’s revered book “Sapiens” was that the human race, while not unique in its ability to have its own language (birds and monkeys and whales all have a different language to warn of predators, or to call for mates) is certainly unique in its ability to use language to tell a story beyond what is right before our eyes. In other words, humans are the only ones that can use language to tell myths and legends; to lift our lives beyond the ordinary into the extraordinary.
The continued popularity of TED Talks showcase just how motivating it is to hear another human tell their story, and it’s easy to see why. While we could probably gain similar insights by reading a ton of books, or watching very good documentaries, nothing is quite as captivating as a human face, voice and body gestures that keep us interested and engaged. We learn a lot more when information is delivered through an effective speech.
That is one of the reasons that I absolutely had to rise to the opportunity when an expat teacher was seeking a speaker to address a group of early middle-schoolers on a topic that I had recently gotten certified in – Nutrition. I had just completed an online certification course earlier this year, after I had begun my journey into Personal Training. Plus, I used to talk for a living as an events and television host, so how hard could it be?
Plenty hard is the right answer! It’s one thing to speak as a hostess with a prepared speech to (generally) bored guests at a dinner party, and quite another to present information on an essential topic to a restless group of 12 – 13-year-olds. Things got very real when I was asked to send my presentation ahead of time, so the teachers could verify that my presentation was addressing what needed to be addressed. I almost had a panic attack imagining the clever students just rolling their eyes at my drool speech, and asking me questions way beyond my scope.
But I pushed through the doubts, and worked hard to put together a presentation that I believed catered to young, inquiring minds. And when the day came, I can honestly say that it was exhilarating and rather well-received. Students were eager to interact and engage with me, and as I did expect, even challenged me on occasion. But I stood my ground and explained what I could, deferring to experts and asking them to do their own further research when I myself didn’t have the answers. I was duly impressed by two students who approached me afterward and followed up with meaningful and thoughtful questions.
As fully-grown adults and participating members of society, we all have our stories. Some are more accessible and relevant to others, and some may need to find the right audience to appreciate its value. Nonetheless, it is an incredible testament to your life to be able to share what experiences and insights you have, with others, especially future generations. You never know when your story may lift someone out of their rut and catalyze them into long-awaited action. That said, here are two ways you can find an opportunity to speak your truth.
BWN is not the only group in Beijing that is always welcoming speakers to share their experiences and insights. There are many niche groups in the capital that you can join, and let your voice be heard at. The WellWomen community has a plethora of subcommunities from WellStyle to WellParenting that invite members to contribute through writing and speaking at their events. Look up WellWomen or Rebecca Archer on Wechat to join the community! She’s Strong is another women empowerment group that sprung up earlier this year and has already organized a seminar that addresseed the vital issue of body shaming and eating disorders. Look for Alessia Chizzoniti on WeChat to join the group.
Beijing Women’s Network (BWN) is seeking speakers to empower women professionally, as well as personally. They welcome speakers from all nationalities and backgrounds and have even hosted several webinars from across the globe. To give you an idea of what they do, BWN events include Fierce Females Webinar, Applied Skills Workshops about video editing to negotiating salaries at work, Healthy Living, and Spotlight Dinner for intimate conversations over dinner. Scan the QR code below to nominate a speaker, or yourself!
You can also find an opportunity to speak at your child’s school through their many parent-led seminars and workshops. The school is also happy to have parents address the student body because that is a testament to how education directly leads to real-life application and success. Email your school or reach out to a fellow parent on the Parent-Teacher-Association (PTA) to find out more!
Images: Vivienne Tseng-Rush, Beijing Women’s Network
