The news unwrapped me
Like a snake’s unfurling from its skin
Your tiny presence, the beginning of a transformation I hadn’t anticipated
We grew together
In the way of things that flourish in dark places
And now it seems we’re light years away from your arrival
As you stand poised for flight at a new threshold
With my hold on you the gossamer of a butterfly wing
Why is there no ritual for this?
No cake
No tea
Only you in the doorway
And me standing on the inside
Pretending to be happy
To let you go.
—
Read – The Breaking Soul – A Poem by Abdullatif Khalid, Uganda
Nicole Biondi is a multi-faceted professional known for her diverse expertise and unwavering commitment to positive change. With a background as a strategy consultant, facilitator, coach, keynote speaker, and ECD and climate action advocate, Nicole brings a unique blend of skills to her work.
Driven by an insatiable curiosity and a passion for lifelong learning, Nicole possesses a broad knowledge base spanning various industries. Her deep expertise lies in non-profit business strategy and operations, senior-level leadership, and strategic communications, encompassing both written and public speaking.
Committed to fostering purpose, meaning, and joy in both personal and professional realms, Nicole actively serves on several boards, including as Vice-Chairperson of Capita, a role that reflects her dedication to meaningful impact (https://www.capita.org/). She also serves on the boards of Games for Change Africa (https://www.gamesforchange.org/), and Nature Connect (https://natureconnect.earth/), where she serves as a trustee.
Over the past two decades, Nicole has traversed seven different industries, from tourism and fashion to conservation and social impact investing. Her global reach extends beyond her home in Cape Town, as she delivers keynote talks at conferences and events worldwide, from Macau to California.
Beyond her professional roles, Nicole is also a poet, writer, and host of murder mystery dinners, showcasing her creative talents and love for immersive experiences. In navigating the currents of her life, Nicole embodies a spirit of curiosity and adaptability, inspiring those around her to embrace change and strive for meaningful progress.
