The great Zerlina Maxwell (Week 5's post)

Zerlina Maxwell is the a women that we should all be listening to. The first time I heard Zerlina Maxwell speak about how society views rape victims was a defining moment for me as a women. She is an inspiring, persuasive orator whose passion is redefining society's treatment of women, in particular victims of sexual assault. I believe she possesses many strengths that are required of strong public speakers and I plan to convince you of this too!

The most admirable strength Zerlina has is her thick skin, and no I do not mean that literally. Zerlina appears regularly on news programs talking about women's rights. During those appearances she generally finds herself on the receiving end of some harsh criticism.  She also has to listen to quite a few illogical arguments that propose her stance is just a personal vendetta against men. And she does all this with a smile on her face and a calm demeanour reminiscent of Helen Mirren's role as Queen Elizabeth. Instead Zerlina uses her passion and purpose and some good plain language to get her point across.

What continues to impress me about Zerlina Maxwell is that she realises that first impressions count. Whether speaking at a conference or appearing on a news show she always look professional. Her hair and make up is always well presented and her clothing choices range from smart casual to business attire. When she speaks she sits/stands up straight and her body language exudes confidence in not only her appearance but confidence in what she is saying. I think her appearance allows her audience to accept her as an authority on whichever topic she is speaking about.

Adding to Zerlina's ethos of authority is her ability to show her vulnerability by  recounting her personal experience of sexual assault. This allows her to relate to her audience on a personal level while reinforcing that she has extensive knowledge of her subject. In other words she has been the victim she regularly talks about. 

So next time you have a spare five minutes google Zerlina Maxwell. Not only may you find your next favourite speaker but you just may learn about how we can help further the battle for equality that thousands of women face every day.