My lifetime of performing began at the age of two, when my parents discovered I could sing “Good Night, Irene”. Following a Bachelor of Music degree in singing, I had a busy career in concert touring, musical theatre and opera.
Choosing a more settled lifestyle, I earned a Bachelor of Education and taught French and Music in Ontario public schools. A few years later, I opened Studio Stubbs, teaching private lessons in singing, piano and art. In 2008, I realized that my classical music and acting training, 30 years as a professional performer, plus teaching experience both in schools and privately, gave me a fresh perspective on the field of public speaking and business presentations. I launched Skilltime to help speakers increase their confidence, their charisma and their audience connection.
What was a problem for me in my performing career turns out to be a benefit for you. All the while I was learning and mastering the external skills of being an exciting performer – how to look good and sound good – I was afflicted with low self-confidence. My lack of the inner skills of presenting resulted in crippling stage fright that eventually became so severe, I had to end my full-time performing career. It wasn’t until later that I learned the secret of a new perspective that eliminated stage fright for me forever. I can hardly wait to pass on that secret to you!
There is no more powerful or persuasive tool than speaking to elevate your business relationships and career success. The ability to communicate is ranked the number one key to success by leaders in business, government and the professions. Today, with a growing clientele, I advise individuals and companies on the practical, learnable skills that create speaking excellence – the skills needed to excel in today’s rapidly changing business landscape. My clients come from many fields, including business and financial institutions, not-for-profit organizations, community groups and the world of education and high tech.
My first book – “SPEAK UP! A Performer’s Insights into the Art and Skill of Public Speaking” – has received rave reviews. I am an Associate of Cheryl Crumb & Associates, as well as a member of The Experion Group, a Toronto-based collective of high calibre specialists with many years of experience in their respective fields. I also sit on the Board of Directors of the Northumberland Central Chamber of Commerce. In its first year, Skilltime was nominated for a Chamber of Commerce Business Achievement Award in the New Business of the Year category.
Take your first step to unlimited success by letting Skilltime increase your Confidence, Charisma and Connection
Heather works with clients across Ontario, including the GTA, Toronto, Oshawa,
Port Hope, Peterborough, Cobourg, Brighton, Belleville, Prince Edward County and Kingston.
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