Advocacy isn't about having the loudest voice—it's about making the strongest connection.

Whether you're advocating for yourself, a loved one, your community or an important cause, facts and passion alone rarely change minds. Lasting change happens when people understand not only what you're asking for, but why it matters. That's where storytelling becomes your greatest advocacy tool.

In this engaging and practical keynote, communications expert, former journalist, patient advocate and award-winning speaker Cynthia Lockrey shares how storytelling can transform advocacy conversations from emotional and overwhelming to clear, compelling and influential. Drawing on nearly three decades of experience in communications—and years of advocating for her autistic child and sibling—Cynthia introduces her practical CARE Method for communicating with confidence, building trust and inspiring meaningful action.

Participants will discover how to share stories that connect with decision-makers, strengthen relationships, reduce conflict and create opportunities for collaboration. Whether advocating in healthcare, education, government, the workplace or the community, attendees will leave with practical tools to communicate with greater clarity, confidence and purpose.

Advocacy isn't simply about being heard. It's about creating the kind of human connection that inspires people to listen, understand and act.

Program Takeaways
By attending this program, attendees will:
• Use storytelling as a strategic advocacy tool
• Communicate with clarity and confidence
• Turn personal experiences into powerful stories
• Build stronger relationships with decision-makers
• Move beyond emotion alone
• Adapt advocacy messages for different audiences
• Advocate with purpose while protecting your energy

Cynthia has been delivering keynotes and workshops for over 20 years to a wide range of audience including government, healthcare, non-profit, corporate and small business. Keynotes are 45 minutes while workshops are 2-3 hours (with 3 hours allowing for more peer to peer discussions). Audience - anyone who wants to strengthen their advocacy skills - for themselves, clients or loved ones. Participants will gain the skills and clarity to communicate with confidence.