I first met Dania at the TEDxAUB auditions. My speech was very impersonal, and yet, Dania, from her distant seat, could probe into my words and hear what I wasn't saying. As a PhD candidate studying in Lebanon, I have my frustrations, and Dania asked me about them. Having said nothing about myself in my speech, I was dumbfounded and I felt exposed. Then, as I looked into her beautifully kind and smiling face, I instantly felt a relieving wave of trust and my first words to Dania were "I need to see you again!" My second encouter with Dania was at a "Professional Communication Skills" workshop. I was again impressed by this extraordinary woman, who radiated positivity and joy. She gave us an empowerment exercise that made me believe that I can do anything I set my mind to, including breaking a pencil with only one finger!! I'm one of the two lucky speakers whom Dania coached for TEDxAUB. During the training, Dania was a huge support and relief. She was extremely generous with her time and energy, and I'm very grateful for that. Her office felt like home and during the training sessions, she didn't only train me for my speech but also addressed my frustrations and doubts. She is positive, inspiring and empowering, and she made me feel awesome. Dania, I'm lucky to have met you and privileged to have been trained by you. You are a real Coach!
Ghina M.El Halabai
PHD Physics candidate - AUB