Susan Heaton-Wright, Founder and CEO of SuperStar Communicator, tells us that, “I am a multi-award winning impact, communications and speaking consultant for emerging leaders. I created the SuperStar Communicator™ methodology empowering clients all over the world. Since March 2020 I have delivered over 1200 virtual workshops to attendees from more than 130 countries worldwide. Many of my clients are global companies as well as professional associations and professional services firms. I empower emerging leaders to speak and communicate with confidence, clarity and credibility, in all business conversations. Whether it is public speaking, pitching for business, presenting an idea or communicating in meetings, my team and I support everyone to present the best version of themselves in all business conversations.”
What were your initial years of growing up like? Tell us about your life before starting your corporate journey/venture/initiative.
I was very quiet and to be honest was the ‘joke‘ in my family. Unfortunately my achievements weren’t mentioned or celebrated. I was always told to be quiet and discouraged from being courageous; there were very limiting ideas of what I could do. Which is a shame. Having someone believing in you is so powerful. I look back on that time with sadness: this is one of the main reasons why I try my best to be positive; support others and celebrate their achievements.
Every industry that is now a large-scale, top-notch business once started as a small idea in the minds of entrepreneurs. What was that idea or motivation that made you start your business /initiative? What motivated you within to say YES, go for it!”
My “WHY” is that there are many incredible, talented people who are underestimated; particularly due to being quieter or who don’t present the best version of themselves. I set up SuperStar Communicator to provide these amazing people ways that they could speak up; make a difference and share their ideas and opinions. Since then my team and I have delivered speeches, masterclasses and workshops to many major organisations worldwide. Both face to face and virtually. We have seen there is incredible talent all over the world and we want those people to shine!
Tell us something about your initiative or current role. What is it about, and what impact are you trying to make?
I am the founder and CEO of SuperStar Communicator. I created the SuperStar Communicator™, identifying the key skills essential to speak and communicate with confidence, clarity and credibility. My role is to create the content; including systems, models and learning material, which one of my assistants, Nicole, makes them look great. I am involved in creating the vision for moving the company forward; including identifying new trends and needs from clients and which organisations to target. My team markets, processes enquiries and does some of the delivery of content. Essentially I am there to inspire my team to be even more brilliant. To share my vision but also to be prepared to listen to their ideas and feedback.
Your journey and your vision are very inspiring, but are there any achievements or accomplishments you would like to mention?
In my early twenties I suffered major trauma and life changing injuries. I don’t discuss the details, but to have survived and to live with the memories are really a major achievement. After this I retrained as an opera singer and I have many experiences as a singer to be proud of. The awards I have won for SuperStar Communicator. Surviving the pandemic! SuperStar Communicator only delivered work face to face; I totally re-structured the learning content and delivery so it could be delivered to clients world wide virtually. Tech is now central to the business model – whilst keeping the human connection in communication.
Would you like to share with our young budding women entrepreneurs the change you would like to see in the world if given an opportunity?
Role models are very powerful for everyone, but especially for young female entrepreneurs. Consider who they are and why they are role models. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance, advice and opportunities. Surround yourself with people who believe in you; try to avoid those who don’t believe in you. And remember, your entrepreneurial journey will be a long one; with challenges as well as triumphs. Remember to celebrate your successes!
Women are a growing force in the workplaces worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. There are cracks in glass ceilings everywhere, with many women breaking through to carve out a space right at the top of the pyramid. What are your thoughts about women leadership today?
I am so proud to see so many incredible female leaders. This was not the case when I was a child. These women are demonstrating outstanding leadership in a volatile world. It takes courage to step up and lead. Unfortunately there is still unconscious bias against female leaders and they are criticised far more. So to reach these levels and to keep moving forward is a genuine achievement.
What would you want to say to our young women leaders/audience reading this?
Your views, visions and opinions are of value. We need to hear you. Build your confidence; speak up and challenge existing views.
