Mara Menzies

Mara Menzies is a highly accomplished and sought-after speaker renowned for her exceptional storytelling skills, insightful perspectives, and dedication to addressing pressing global issues through narrative. With a diverse background and extensive experience, Menzies has captivated audiences in over 30 countries worldwide, earning recognition for her ability to craft bespoke narratives that resonate deeply with listeners.

Having honed her craft over years of practice, Mara Menzies is celebrated as an award-winning storyteller, earning prestigious accolades such as the Stage Award for Acting Excellence at the renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2022. This recognition underscores her mastery of the art form and her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.

In addition to her achievements in storytelling, Menzies is also a talented author, with her debut novel, ""Blood and Gold,"" receiving the Saltire Award for Scottish Book of Fiction in 2022. Through her writing, she showcases her ability to create rich, immersive worlds and explore complex themes with depth and nuance.

Menzies is widely regarded for her exceptional public speaking skills, which she employs to engage and inspire audiences on a wide range of topics. From addressing the transformative power of storytelling to advocating for climate justice and peace-building efforts in conflict zones such as Colombia, she brings a unique blend of passion, insight, and empathy to her presentations.

Furthermore, Mara Menzies has collaborated with esteemed organizations and institutions, including the University of Edinburgh, the Mastercard Foundation, and Lionsgate Ltd, The British Council, The British Library, where she has applied her storytelling expertise to various projects and initiatives. Her work with these partners exemplifies her versatility and ability to adapt her storytelling approach to diverse audiences and contexts.

One of the key themes in Menzies' speaking engagements is the exploration of the nexus between traditional knowledge and contemporary issues. For instance, her discussions on the relationship between traditional rainmakers in Turkana and modern meteorologists offer a compelling lens through which to examine indigenous wisdom and its relevance in today's world.

She is also the Founder and Artistic Director of Msitu wa Ndoto (Forest of Dreams), a celebration of Kenyan stories in the heart of an ancient baobab forest in Kilifi County, Kenya where she uses the arts to celebrate the rich tangible and intangible cultural heritage of the nation.

Through her dynamic and thought-provoking presentations, Mara Menzies continues to inspire and empower audiences to think critically, empathize deeply, and take action on issues that matter. With her unwavering commitment to using storytelling as a tool for positive change, she embodies the transformative potential of narrative in shaping hearts, minds, and communities for a better future.