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:
To receive free child sponsorship and Forward Edge welcome brochures for your presentation, simply email your request to desimcanally@forwardedge.org.
Find all of our videos to share with others on our Vimeo account here.
Berenice was used to seeing the same narrative play out around her growing up: a life marked by poverty, wealth inequality, and barriers to education. Most families in her area in Oaxaca, Mexico have traditionally come from smaller villages in search of a better life and are facing severe unemployment
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Sheri Stanley, our Director of Operations & Mobilization, to hear her Forward Edge Story. While what we spoke about was only a fraction of God’s incredible works in her life, these significant moments were an inspiration to me, and I hope they
Pikliz is a spicy, tangy condiment made primarily from pickled cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, onions, and Scotch bonnet peppers, seasoned with vinegar and spices. It adds a burst of flavor to Haitian dishes, particularly fried foods like griot (fried pork) and fried plantains, yum! Pikliz is often made in large
The decision to join a mission team It all started with two sisters who chose to go on a mission trip to Nicaragua. Val spontaneously joined her sister Donna at a trip team meeting, and decided during the meeting that she too wanted to serve with the team. A Humbling Experience During
12 yrs. old
Entered the Program: February 2025
Violeta lives with her mother, stepfather and younger brother, Elias (also in the program) in a three-bedroom concrete house with a concrete roof and concrete and dirt floors. She currently shares a bedroom with her brother. The kitchen is in an adobe room separate from the house and the family cooks with wood. They access water from a hose on their property and the bathroom is outdoors.
Violeta’s mother used to live in Mexico City with father, but he abandoned her when she became pregnant with their second child, who, sadly, died of SIDS. She moved back to her home village where she eventually met Elias’ father. When she got pregnant with Elias, they got married. Violeta’s stepfather has adopted her as his own, and they have a very close relationship. Both of her parents work farming the fields and her mother also cares for the home.
Plus bonus group fundraising ideas!
