Have you ever wondered what it really takes to chase a dream? Not the glamorous parts you see on stage or in pictures, but the quiet, messy, nerve-wracking moments that no one talks about? This is that story, the behind-the-scenes journey of how I became a motivational speaker.
When I was a little girl, I dreamed of changing lives, but the truth is I had no clue how that would happen. I remember sitting on the couch, watching a DVD of Nick Vujicic, a man born without arms or legs who now inspires millions. I cried through the entire movie. My heart was overflowing, and I thought, “If he can do it, maybe I can too.” That night, I dared to believe my dream was possible.
Living with cerebral palsy has always had its challenges. Some days were harder than others. I went to special needs schools and often felt invisible, like people saw only my disability instead of me. Stares, whispers, and hurtful comments were part of my everyday life, but behind closed doors, my parents were my champions. They never stopped believing in me, even when I doubted myself.
Homeschooling became a turning point for me. My parents hired a private teacher to help me with computer skills like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, email, web design. One day, I had to present a PowerPoint to 12 people in our home. My hands shook, my heart raced, and I nearly ran out of the room. But somehow, I did it, and people loved it. And then… someone mentioned a speaking opportunity. Weeks later, a phone call confirmed it. Suddenly, a childhood dream was inching closer to reality.
But here’s the behind-the-scenes truth: I was terrified. I didn’t know how to prepare, what to say, or even how to hold myself on stage. I was nervous beyond words. I cried. I stumbled over my words. I questioned if I was good enough. Yet, when I stepped on that stage, something magical happened. People listened. Lives were touched. My fire ignited. That day, I realized speaking wasn’t just a dream… it was my calling.
Even after that, the journey wasn’t easy. I created a Facebook event for an online motivational talk, and over 100 people attended. I felt both thrilled and terrified. What if I failed? What if no one listened? But God showed up. The messages, the comments, the lives impacted, it reminded me that faith plus action can change the world. Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” That truth carried me through every uncertain moment.
The behind-the-scenes hustle continued. I started sending cold emails and making calls, stepping into a world I didn’t fully understand, hoping someone would say yes. During a physiotherapy session, I casually mentioned my dream to my physiotherapist. She connected me with someone in the speaking industry, and four weeks later, I met my mentor. I was sweating with nerves. My hands shook. I doubted myself. But that moment changed everything.
Training with my mentor was transformative. Behind the scenes, I learned how to embrace fear, build confidence, and deliver a message that matters. He helped me see that my disability didn’t define me—my heart, my story, and my faith did. He celebrated my small wins, encouraged me when I felt like quitting, and taught me that every small step is part of a bigger journey.
Here’s the thing no one tells you: success isn’t glamorous or overnight. It’s early mornings, late nights, endless preparation, and moments of self-doubt. It’s falling, crying, praying, and standing up again. Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” I promise you, every obstacle, every tear, every tiny step forward—it’s all part of God’s plan for your story.
So, here’s my behind-the-scenes advice: your story matters and yur dream matters. God has placed ability in your struggles, hope in your heart, and purpose in your journey. Take that first step, keep moving, trust the process, and never underestimate the power of your story. You are an overcomer.
________________________________________
Behind-the-Scenes Tips for Your Own Journey
- Start Small, Start Now – The first step doesn’t have to be perfect. Take it anyway.
- Embrace the Fear – Fear is part of growth. Let it push you, not paralyse you.
- Celebrate Tiny Wins – Behind every big stage moment are hundreds of small victories.
- Seek Mentorship – Find someone who sees your potential and can guide you.
- Keep Faith in Focus – Prayer, reflection, and trust in God will carry you through the tough days.
- Share Your Journey – Someone else’s breakthrough could be hiding in your story.