When it comes to sharing with others about your mission, calling, or passion for a particular cause, your main objective should be to connect with your audience. Get them engaged emotionally and intellectually so that they are ready to receive what you have to say. Whether you are one-on-one or speaking to a group, considering in advance how best to accomplish this goal is important for a successful presentation. Here are some points to keep in mind:
This is probably the single most important element in relating to others. People will hear your heart before they hear your message. We are each unique and have our own communication style; trust yours as the Holy Spirit leads. Be yourself: express your enthusiasm and motivation in a genuine way, and others will respond.
First, pray. It is easy to become focused on what you will need to do in the presentation, but ultimately, God will give the result. Ask the Holy Spirit to prepare the hearts of your listeners and to guide you in what and how to share. Then start planning. Assess your audience; what are their overall personality and interests? Grab their attention by using things like letters, pictures, and videos; and engage them by inviting them into the conversation and encouraging them to share their own experiences. However, on the other hand, be prepared to modify the presentation on the fly when necessary.
People like stories. We are moved and inspired by them, and the experiences of others often help us to see ourselves in a different light. In thinking about sharing your story ask yourself the What and Why. What touched you and motivated you to become involved in your mission? Why is it important for you to share this with others? When you have clear answers to these questions, and convey them with passion and conviction, you will be able to communicate your story effectively.
They say “practice makes perfect,” but perfection isn’t necessary so don’t stress about it. However, it is wise to rehearse what you will present. It’s possible that in the midst of a good conversation you might forget a key point that you wanted to make, or an unexpected question might sidetrack you. If you have rehearsed (and made notes or a good outline) you’re less likely to be thrown off script. Practice also builds confidence, and your level of confidence will often speak louder than the words you use.
When the end of your presentation is nearing, remember these points:
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Find all of our videos to share with others on our Vimeo account here.
In his book, “Empowering Children”, former Forward Edge board member, Dr. Ravi Jayakaran, shares the importance of involving children in the process of their own development. When a community invests its resources in its children, it invests in its own future. Just as Forward Edge values all children and believes
Tim Ainley, CEO of Forward Edge, recently shared an inspiring message at a graduation commencement ceremony that is a timely and impactful message for us all. But, especially for recent graduates, young adults, and teens, these words could be the guiding principles you need as you step into a world
“Consider this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly,
As a child sponsor for over 3 decades, and now as the Child Sponsorship Administrator for Forward Edge, I am often asked (and challenged myself) about how to best communicate with a sponsored child. In almost all cases, the children we sponsor live in other countries. We do live in
18 yrs. old
Entered the program: January 2019
Irene lives with her siblings and cousins (7 children total) at her grandmother’s house since being abandoned by her father when she was young. They live in a three-bed room house and she shares a bedroom with her female cousins. The family uses firewood to cook and electricity for lighting. They use unfiltered water from a tank behind the house which is not clean. Irene’s grandmother, with help from the children, does some farming, and raises pigs, ducks, and chickens to support the family.
Irene’s cousins, Majorine, Allen, and Reagan are also in the Light A Candle program.
