Communicating for Success: Finding Our Voice with EMPOWER (Part 2)

by Bryne Pacis

Thursday 23 October 2025 marked a pivotal moment in my professional journey. The EMPOWER cohort had the extraordinary opportunity to visit the Morgan Stanley office for our second workshop – an experience that exceeded every expectation.

As a Finance and Banking major, stepping into the Morgan Stanley office felt like a dream realized. The evening began with networking and refreshments, but what truly made it special was connecting with senior professionals who generously shared their time and insights with us.

Sarah Millson from Actualize Global delivered a masterclass on making powerful first impressions and effective professional communication. Her insight about centering public speaking around one core message has already transformed how I approach elevator pitches. Working alongside group leaders from Morgan Stanley to practice these skills in real time was invaluable - there's nothing quite like learning from the best in the industry.

Speaking with my cohort peers afterwards, we all agreed that the networking portion was transformative. One participant mentioned how asking professionals about "what they notice first when someone enters a room" gave her a completely new perspective on professional presence. Another highlighted how learning about different career trajectories opened her eyes to possibilities she hadn't considered.

The questions we were encouraged to ask, from what makes candidates stand out to understanding career pivots, are conversations that rarely happen outside of structured programs like this. These insights are already shifting how I approach professional interactions, both in formal settings and daily life.

My deepest appreciation goes to The Amber Foundation for creating this platform where women from ethnic backgrounds can access career guidance and professional development opportunities. To the Morgan Stanley team, Sarah Millson, and all the professionals who shared their wisdom, thank you for investing in our futures.

After just two workshops, I can already feel the positive changes in my confidence, communication style, and professional approach. I'm incredibly excited for what's ahead in this journey!

-Bryne Pacis, Cohort 8, Business Management