The Power of One Voice

A few weeks ago, I had the honor of delivering the keynote address to the Human Relations Commission of Winston-Salem. What made it even more special was that this wasn’t just another speech. It was personal. Years ago, I sat in the very seats of the students I spoke to as a recipient of the same Human Relations Award. What I delivered on that stage was not just a message for the night—it was a call to action for a lifetime.

I spoke about seeds—seeds of change, seeds of justice, seeds of healing and hope, and, most importantly, seeds of human connection. These young leaders in the room, from elementary to high school, are carrying those seeds right now. Despite the noise of division and the pull of apathy in our world, they are choosing courage, compassion, and curiosity.

As I stood there, looking into the eyes of tomorrow’s leaders, I felt the weight and privilege of using my voice to challenge them to wonder more, grow intentionally, and lead boldly. While my words were crafted for them, they were also a mirror back to myself and to all of us: a reminder that leadership begins the moment we dare to believe that our voice matters.

Standing in that room, I felt the truth of those words in my bones.

There is an undeniable power in speaking truth, even when people don’t agree with your words. Because the goal is not always agreement—the goal is impact. It is to stir hearts, provoke thought, challenge comfort zones, and plant seeds that may not sprout today but will grow in time.

If my speech inspired even one student to take the chance, extend kindness, lead with empathy, or stand up when it would be easier to stay seated, then it was worth every moment.

This experience reminded me that our words, when aligned with purpose and delivered with authenticity, can reshape narratives and spark movements.

So my charge to you is simple: USE YOUR VOICE.

Even when it feels like no one is listening. Even when the room feels heavy with disagreement. Even when you wonder if it makes a difference.

Because it does.

The seeds we plant with our words today will shape the world of tomorrow.

Like President Barack Obama once said, “One voice can change a room, and if one voice can change a room, then it can change a city, and if it can change a city, it can change a state, and if it can change a state, it can change a nation, and if it can change a nation, it can change the world. Your voice can change the world.”

Let's continue to use our voices to change the world! 

#FutureForward #HumanRelations #UseYourVoice #Leadership #SeedsofChange #Inspiration #BarackObama