Verse (VersAnnette) Motivational Speaker from Schaumburg, IL

A broken wing doesn't mean you can't fly. -VersAnnette I'll be honest with you. When I speak, it touches hearts. Not only am I a passionate, articulate, energetic, humorous and heartfelt communicator - but the message comes across loud and clear: I understand survival, healing and self-empowerment intimately. I am a survivor of many things, from Domestic Violence & sexual assault to childhood trauma, violence and neglect. What I love most about my story is that I don't look like any of the things I've been through! I believe in authenticity, connecting our innate gifts with our own unique and distinct purpose. Everyone has one. Inspirational Speaking is a huge part of mine. Whether I show up and read one my poems, or use my story to bless and inspire others, or if I am talking about the impact creative arts has on healing broken people...the crowd is MOVED. Sometimes to tears, usually sandwiched between laughter. Public speaking is my God-given, divine gift and I take it very seriously. Outside of all that, I am a humble connector who is here to help people, be transparent, and give hugs. When I'm not doing that, I am painting, writing, facilitating workshops or offering therapeutic massage. I'd love to meet you, and help you execute a powerful event. Let's make a difference in people's lives together!!!! Below is my Official Bio: VersAnnette Blackman is an artist, author, advocate and healing arts practitioner. She has 10+ years as a trauma informed facilitator, in various settings. For nearly 6 years she worked with a literary arts organization where she facilitated poetry, art & book group discussions with youth in various high schools in Chicago. In 2013, she launched a non-profit organization (H.E.M) an acronym for Heal, Empower, Motivate whose mission is to use art and creative writing to help survivors heal and find their voices. In March 2015 she was awarded the Peggy A. Montes "Unsung Heroine Award" by the Cook County Commission on Women's Issues. Whether teaching in a classroom, or homeless shelter, VersAnnette is passionate about art as a means for healing, self-discovery and empowerment.