Logo
Mara Menzies Headshot
Report a problem with this profile
[email protected]

Mara Menzies          

Award-Winning Performance Storyteller & Narrative Artist; Author of 'Blood and Gold'; Founder of Msitu wa Ndoto (Forest of Dreams)

Mara Menzies is a highly accomplished and sought-after speaker renowned for her exceptional storytelling skills, insightful perspectives, and dedication to addressing pressing global issues through narrative. With a diverse background and extensive experience, Menzies has captivated audiences in over 30 countries worldwide, earning recognition for her ability to craft bespoke narratives that resonate deeply with listeners.

Having honed her craft over years of practice, Mara Menzies is celebrated as an award-winning storyteller, earning prestigious accolades such as the Stage Award for Acting Excellence at the renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2022. This recognition underscores her mastery of the art form and her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.

In addition to her achievements in storytelling, Menzies is also a talented author, with her debut novel, ""Blood and Gold,"" receiving the Saltire Award for Scottish Book of Fiction in 2022. Through her writing, she showcases her ability to create rich, immersive worlds and explore complex themes with depth and nuance.

Menzies is widely regarded for her exceptional public speaking skills, which she employs to engage and inspire audiences on a wide range of topics. From addressing the transformative power of storytelling to advocating for climate justice and peace-building efforts in conflict zones such as Colombia, she brings a unique blend of passion, insight, and empathy to her presentations.

Furthermore, Mara Menzies has collaborated with esteemed organizations and institutions, including the University of Edinburgh, the Mastercard Foundation, and Lionsgate Ltd, The British Council, The British Library, where she has applied her storytelling expertise to various projects and initiatives. Her work with these partners exemplifies her versatility and ability to adapt her storytelling approach to diverse audiences and contexts.

One of the key themes in Menzies' speaking engagements is the exploration of the nexus between traditional knowledge and contemporary issues. For instance, her discussions on the relationship between traditional rainmakers in Turkana and modern meteorologists offer a compelling lens through which to examine indigenous wisdom and its relevance in today's world.

She is also the Founder and Artistic Director of Msitu wa Ndoto (Forest of Dreams), a celebration of Kenyan stories in the heart of an ancient baobab forest in Kilifi County, Kenya where she uses the arts to celebrate the rich tangible and intangible cultural heritage of the nation.

Through her dynamic and thought-provoking presentations, Mara Menzies continues to inspire and empower audiences to think critically, empathize deeply, and take action on issues that matter. With her unwavering commitment to using storytelling as a tool for positive change, she embodies the transformative potential of narrative in shaping hearts, minds, and communities for a better future.

Speech Topics

Understanding the Power of Stories to Inform and Inspire

In this impactful presentation, Mara delves deep into the profound influence of storytelling. Drawing from the ancient wisdom of her dual African and Scottish traditions and narratives, together we explore the beauty of how stories not only inform but also inspire. Through an exploration of archetypal narratives and personal anecdotes, the audience will gain a profound understanding of the power inherent in storytelling to shape organizational culture, foster authentic connections, and drive meaningful change. By embracing the art of storytelling, leaders will uncover a potent tool for uniting teams, cultivating empathy, and galvanizing action towards shared goals.

We examine the intricacies of how stories resonate within the human psyche, catalyzing profound shifts in perception and behaviour through an immersive blend of 'old bone' stories and personal anecdotes. Attendees will leave equipped with a newfound appreciation for the art of storytelling and a toolkit of practical techniques to integrate storytelling into both their personal lives and business practices effectively. Whether it's enhancing internal communications, capturing the attention of investors, or engaging customers on a deeper level, understanding the power of stories is essential for anyone looking to thrive in today's competitive landscape.

Loosen Your Tongue: The Power of Storytelling for Corporate Resilience

In the fast-paced and dynamic landscape of today's corporate world, effective communication is key to overcoming challenges and fostering resilience. "Loosen Your Tongue" is designed to empower companies with the art and science of storytelling, offering a transformative experience to navigate and conquer hurdles.

During this interactive presentation, participants will delve into the fundamentals of storytelling, exploring how even the simplest of narratives can be powerful tools for communication, connection, and problem-solving. The presentation is tailored to address specific challenges faced by companies, fostering an environment where storytelling becomes a strategic asset in overcoming obstacles.

Key Highlights:

Understanding the Power of Stories:

  • Learn how narratives shape perspectives, influence decision-making, and foster empathy.

Crafting Compelling Corporate Narratives:

  • Identify and refine key corporate messages and values.
  • Develop techniques for weaving narratives that resonate with diverse audiences, both internally and externally.

Navigating Crisis through Storytelling:

  • Provide practical examples of techniques to communicate effectively during challenging times.
  • Learn how to use narratives to inspire confidence, maintain transparency, and rally teams in times of crisis.

Enhancing Team Collaboration:

  • Foster a culture of collaboration and innovation through storytelling. -Encourage employees to share their stories, creating a more connected and engaged workforce.

Building a Storytelling Culture:

  • Develop strategies to embed storytelling into the corporate culture.
  • Encourage leaders to lead by example, sharing their narratives to inspire and motivate their teams.

By the end of the "Loosen Your Tongue" presentation, participants will leave with a newfound appreciation for the impact of storytelling in overcoming challenges, equipped with practical tools to integrate storytelling into their area of interest. This presentation aims to empower companies to transform obstacles into opportunities through the compelling and authentic narratives they create and share.

Navigating the Depths: Unveiling the Power of Storytelling for Mental Wellbeing

Embark on an exploratory journey into the heart of storytelling as a catalyst for mental well-being in our modern world. In this immersive presentation, we will delve deep into the profound pressures of contemporary life and illuminate the path toward healing and resilience through the art of storytelling. Mara draws inspiration from the ancient wisdom of her dual African and Scottish cultural heritage, to explore how storytelling serves as a potent tool for processing emotions, overcoming adversity, and cultivating inner peace.

Together we will unravel the intricate connections between personal narratives and mental health. Through poignant anecdotes, experiential exercises, and guided meditations, participants will discover the transformative power of sharing and re-framing their stories, leading to greater self-awareness, empowerment, and emotional liberation.

As we navigate the depths of human experience, we embrace the healing potential of storytelling to nurture our minds, uplift our spirits, and forge deeper connections with ourselves and others, illuminating the path toward mental well-being in the midst of life's most challenging moments.

Related Speakers View all

More like Mara