As a teenager, I harboured dreams of becoming a singer. But at 18, a pivotal moment arrived in the form of a dream: there I was, standing on a stage, yet when I woke, a wave of doubt washed over me, convincing me that such dreams were nothing more than fanciful illusions. In that moment, I told myself it would never happen because I wasn’t good enough.

I would hide in the choir for many years before I finally made it into the worship team at our church.

Now, I’m gearing up to confront my fear of public speaking head-on over the next three days at the Speakers Institute bootcamp.

For far too long, the shadows of failure and rejection have held me captive, ensnaring me in a cycle of procrastination that has stifled my growth. I’ve come to an important realisation: if I’m genuinely going to lead Nexus Connect Community and bring my vision of a vibrant creative community centre to life, I must learn to embrace speaking to crowds with grace and confidence.

I've come to realise that if I’m truly going to lead Nexus Connect Community and bring my vision of a creative community centre to life, I need to become comfortable speaking to crowds.

Just the other day, a friend shared that he envisions me gracing the stages of stadiums. However to, reach that point, I must first embrace and overcome the challenge of speaking in front of an audience.

Yesterday was particularly overwhelming; the pressure felt tangible, almost suffocating. I spent an hour handwriting my speech off by heart. I realised it's not that I don’t know my content — it's just that elusive connection between my thoughts and my words. In that moment of anxiety, I reached out to Clive, who offered the support I desperately needed to ease my worries.

Surprisingly, I’m not in complete panic mode right now. As John Maxwell wisely teaches, nobody makes it to the top of Mt. Everest alone. With that in mind, here I stand, bracing myself for three intensive days of training. This journey is about equipping myself to step boldly into the role I’ve been called to fulfil. It’s time to banish those fears and embrace the journey ahead with an open heart.

Thank You, Lord, for calling me for such a time as this. It’s truly humbling to recognise that You have imparted everything I need for life and godliness. You don’t call the qualified; instead, You graciously qualify those who are willing to step forward and take on the journey You have laid before them.

I find tremendous comfort in knowing that my inadequacies do not define me. It’s not about being the most skilled or experienced; it’s about having the heart to say, "Yes, I’m willing." Here I am, Lord—send me.

With each new opportunity, I feel Your presence encouraging me to embrace this purpose and innate calling. I’m reminded that I’m not alone in this venture; Your strength fills the gaps where I may feel weak, and Your guidance illuminates each step on this path. I trust that as I surrender my fears and insecurities to You, You will shape me into the vessel You need me to be.

So, I step forward with faith, ready to embrace the journey ahead. Thank You for every moment, every experience, and every lesson that has brought me to this point. I’m excited to see how You will work through me, transforming challenges into triumphs as I walk in obedience, fully confident that I have been chosen for this unique purpose.