Behind every great performance is preparation. Behind every “how did he do that?” moment is a toolkit—carefully curated, deeply personal, and filled not just with props, but with power.
People often ask me, “Sekou, what’s in your bag before a big speech?” expecting maybe a laptop, a water bottle, maybe a clicker. But let me tell you—what’s in my bag isn’t just stuff. It’s strategy. It’s what helps me turn a stage into sacred space.
So let’s unzip this thing.
First, the essentials: a crisp mic and a backup. Why? Because your voice is your sword, and a dull sword won’t cut through noise. I always carry my preferred mic style when I can—lapel or headset—because when I sound my best, I feelmy best. Confidence is frequency. I want mine set to resonance.
Next up: my writing journal. No, not an iPad, a journal. Old school. Leather-bound. Ink-stained. This is where poetic fire lives. I jot fresh verses, anchor words, emotional notes that hit me mid-flight or in a quiet hallway. Because inspiration doesn’t follow calendar invites. It sneaks up. And I stay ready.
Then there’s my ritual toolkit: a grounding crystal, a small Bluetooth speaker to pump my pre-stage playlist, and sometimes, a scent. Sandalwood or citrus—aromatherapy that centers my energy and sharpens my presence. These aren’t accessories. They’re anchors.
Of course, I’ve got my slides—when I use them. But more often, I carry cues: thematic prompts, emotional beats I want to hit. My goal isn’t to remember lines. It’s to remember impact.
And lastly? I carry intention. Whether it’s a mantra I whisper before stepping out—“They don’t need perfection. They need presence.”—or a quiet moment of breathwork to align with the room’s energy… I never walk on stage without first walking into my purpose.
Because what’s really in my bag isn’t just tools—it’s truth.
So whether you’re a seasoned speaker or stepping into your first keynote, remember: your toolkit isn’t just what you bring—it’s what you believe. Fill it with courage. With connection. With creativity. And you’ll never step on a stage empty-handed.
