Braver than brave - London Braver Conference 2018

The comparative ‘r’ in braver refers rather resolutely to the resounding success of this bravest of precedents in raising the bar, while relishing and reaching beyond rivetingly reliable resources towards the ever elusive superlative.

As a big supporter of Brave 2017, I rushed off with rambunctious anticipation to attend this year’s Braver Conference. A reassuring array of speakers braver than most inspired the audience in myriad remarkable ways.

Dr. Caroline Casey set the rhythm with refreshing revelations on how to believe in ourselves, accept who we are, feel the wind in our faces, and make things happen. Realistically recommending getting off our ‘snot rocks’ and to 'stop pretending to be something you are not'. Caroline is taking disabilities to the ruthless forefront of the business world, rightfully challenging leaders to reconsider and revise their stance on disregarded minorities and bring about change. She has effectively used her blindness to simultaneously raise her own potential and greater awareness for the plight of remarkable people fighting for inclusion.

The revelation of Detective Superintendent Tor Garnett of the Metropolitan Police ruptured my biased expectations as a ravishing, perfectly dressed stunner strode radiantly onto stage.  She delivered an equally striking punch behind her words to 'Never be defined by your successes or your failures', 'Challenge your leaders', and 'Do what you love, and to do it often'. Bravery can be rigorously developed in the many realms of our physical, social, and emotional range of courage, and that is what builds resilience.

Who can resist relishing a piece of Divine Chocolate, or the enabling sentiments behind Sophie Tranchell's radical innovations in social enterprise, responding to naysayers by daring to take on the big chiefs like Nestle and Cadbury’s in developing a company 44% co-owned with Cocoa farmers in Ghana.  She revealed a passionate commitment to empowering the ‘small people’. Resonating a little closer to my South African heritage, Sophie the anti-apartheid campaigner reminded us that through boycotts we can all react and make a difference by services we choose to buy or not.

Steven Langan related a transparent, vulnerable account of his invitation to be a key note speaker to 2000 attendees with only a few hours to prepare, recounting his rattling emotional roller coaster ride and rapid  manifestation of bravery stepping out on stage with no slides or script, and then to receive a raucous standing ovation.

A true Resilience Ninja represented by Jaz Ampaw-Farr took us on a humbling journey through childhood neglect, poverty and abuse, rising to resist being a victim, revering childhood heroes (teachers) and realising we are more powerful than we think we 'r'.  We can be everyday heroes in small, courageous deeds, and come away knowing that authenticity is our super power.

Group Brand Director at Tesco Michelle McEttrick referred to 'Your recount of your secret', reviving our ability to rise above the insecurities of imposter syndromes, by believing in our knowledge, and how we can work with a diverse range of competent people, complementing each other for better results.

Bravissimo to Marketing Society’s Chief Executive Gemma Greaves and Chair Syl Saller who realistically rallied for another successful even braver round for year 2019!

Written by Lauren Richardson, Group Marketing Operations Director at Dimension Data