Book Mary as a Speaker!
I grew up with immigrant parents, which meant the answer to almost everything was "no."
So naturally, I spent my adult life saying yes.
Yes to opportunities.
Yes to conversations.
Yes to rooms I wasn't qualified to be in.
Yes to things that scared me.
People think I have some grand strategy for how I ended up here.
I don't.
I just kept saying yes, and eventually it became a marketing agency, speaking career, business expos, and a collection of stories that probably should have ended differently.
Before entering the business and speaking world, I spent time performing amateur stand-up comedy, where I developed many of the storytelling, audience engagement, and stage presence skills that continue to shape my presentations today. Comedy taught me how to connect with people, think on my feet, and find humour in life's unexpected moments.
This looks like a successful career.
What you're actually seeing is years of saying:
"Sure, I can do that."
Followed immediately by:
"How do I do that?"
My speaking experience includes keynote presentations, business workshops, training seminars, conference presentations, school presentations, event hosting, emceeing, and panel discussions. I have spoken on topics including entrepreneurship, marketing, confidence, networking, personal growth, business development, and embracing opportunities.
Some of my speaking and hosting experience includes:
• Founder and Speaker – T8N Business Expo
• Master of Ceremonies – T8N Business Expo, Weddings
• Guest Speaker – Business networking events and workshops
• Presenter – Grade 7 Fine Arts Career Presentation
• Facilitator – Business and Marketing Training Programs
• Host and Presenter – Community and Chamber-related events
• Public Speaking and Entrepreneurship Presentations throughout the Edmonton Region
In addition to speaking, I am a vocalist who regularly performs at community events and ceremonies. Most recently, I performed O Canada at the opening ceremonies of the St. Albert Farmers' Market. I enjoy blending music, humour, and storytelling to create memorable experiences for audiences.
Today, my message focuses on embracing opportunities, building confidence, creating meaningful connections, and understanding how one simple "yes" can completely change the trajectory of a person's life.