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.
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13 yrs. old
Entered the program: March 2023
Rahamatu lives with her parents and three siblings in a three-bedroom mud house roofed with thatch; they have no latrine. The village has access to electricity for purchase but it often runs out before they can buy more. They have no access to potable water. Water is fetched from a local dam until it dries up, then the village women and girls must travel long distances to find other sources. This interferes with work and school attendance.
Rahamatu comes from a Muslim family but she and her older sister, Mariam (also in the program), have accepted Christ. Rahamatu’s father is a farmer but barely harvests enough food to last throughout the year; her mother tries to sells rice to help provide. They sometimes eat only once a day. With help from Create Hope, Rahamatu and her sister can attend school regularly.
