As a creative professional and advocate, I believe that storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have to create change. This was never more clear than when I was invited to deliver a keynote speech at Day on the Hill, a national advocacy event hosted by Utah Community Action Head Start and the National Head Start Association. I had the important task of using my storytelling and communications skill to help amplify the need for early childhood education funding.
Representing Families, Building Trust
In my role as Executive Secretary of Utah Community Action Policy Council, I served as an elected parent liaison representing over 1,200 local families. I worked alongside board chairs and organizational leadership to communicate family needs and help shape policy decisions that directly impacted our community.
This role wasn’t just about attending meetings, it was about navigating stakeholder dynamics, elevating underrepresented voices, and translating real-world experiences into messages that could influence policy.
Turning a Lived Experience into a Communications Strategy
When I was asked to speak to Senator Mitt Romney and Congressman Burgess Owens, I knew I had just a few minutes to make a big impact. I drew on my experience in brand messaging and narrative design to craft a story that was both personal and persuasive.
I used my lived experience as a Utah parent to humanize complex policy issues, framing access to early education not just as a benefit, but as a necessity. Every detail was intentionally rooted in my knowledge of public speaking strategy, audience targeting, and message clarity.
Communication in Action
By sharing my story, I helped strengthen the case for continued federal Head Start funding, ensuring that vital programs remain available to the Utah families who need them most. I also helped raise visibility for affordable childcare challenges within a local framework.
This experience reinforced my belief that authentic storytelling is essential to advocacy, marketing, and leadership. Whether I’m working on a grassroots campaign, a digital content strategy, or a branded initiative, my goal is always the same: make people feel seen and move them to action.
Takeaways
This experience reminded me that effective communication doesn’t just inform, it mobilizes. The same principles I apply in brand storytelling—clarity, empathy, intention—are just as critical in advocacy. When we lead with real stories, grounded in real people, we build the kind of connection that inspires action. I walked away from this experience more confident in my ability to speak truth to power and more committed than ever to using creativity as a tool for change.
Need help sharing your story in a way that connects and resonates? Let’s work together!
xoxo,
Michaela Rae
V. Studio 