How Words and Action Change the World

“Words have power. Actions have impact. Together, they change the world.” – Unknown

Influence is a form of power that extends beyond titles and positions. It’s the ability to shape minds, inspire change, and rally movements through words and actions. Taylor Swift is a prime example. Her influence on the recent U.S. election debate showed how a well-timed message, delivered to the right audience, can create real change. By encouraging voter registration and participation, Swift proved that one person can spark widespread action, showcasing the extraordinary power of purposeful influence.

Closer to home, the Guyanese woman—though not always in the global spotlight like Swift—has the same potential for influence. Many Guyanese women are already stepping into leadership roles, shaping communities, and driving social change. Their potential to reach the level of influence wielded by someone like Swift is not a far-fetched idea—it is entirely achievable. Every Miss Guyana embodies this potential.

Taylor Swift’s influence represents the kind of power a Miss Guyana must aspire to—combining grace, intelligence, and purpose with a voice that inspires. It’s not just about winning a crown or title; it’s about using the platform to effect meaningful change. Whether by championing causes like Beauty with a Purpose, showcasing their talents, or serving as a role model, Miss Guyana has the opportunity to influence not only her country but the world. As the face of her nation, she holds the power to attract brands and sponsors naturally, without the need for a pitch. But to unlock this potential, she must focus not solely on rewards but on the journey that builds her influence.

Influence and its value are often overlooked. Too many women chase after recognition—titles, accolades, and prestige—without realizing that the true value lies in the experience gained along the way and in the growth of their influence. Take, for instance, a woman pursuing a leadership position. While she may initially fixate on the title, true growth happens in learning, building relationships, and overcoming challenges. Even if the title remains out of reach, the ability to influence others becomes far richer than the outcome sought.

When women focus solely on materialistic outcomes, they can miss the invaluable lessons their influence has the potential to teach. Regardless of whether accolades are achieved, it’s the journey itself, filled with both highs and lows, that holds the real treasure. This journey builds wisdom, honing women’s natural abilities as teachers, nurturers, and leaders. These experiences imprint knowledge so deeply that they shape how women navigate life, making them stronger, more resilient, and more influential—better equipped to inspire multi-generations.

An influential Miss Guyana, much like Taylor Swift, must recognize that her influence comes not from her title but from her ability to inspire through her actions and words. When she fully embraces her role, brands and sponsors naturally gravitate toward her—not the other way around. Why isn’t the power of influence impactful enough? It starts with a mindset shift among Guyanese women. To truly harness their potential for influence, they must focus on the key learnings of the experience, not dwell on failures, and step confidently into their power.

Confidence is the cornerstone of influence. It allows women to step out of their comfort zones, own their space, and speak with purpose. Confidence doesn’t appear overnight—it’s built through life’s experiences, through small victories, and through the courage to face challenges. The belief in one’s voice, and the conviction to use it, is what drives lasting impact.

The most influential women are those who balance humility with strength. They are grounded enough to connect with everyday people but carry themselves with the dignity that commands respect. This delicate balance is essential for Miss Guyana—or any woman—to fully embrace her potential and make a lasting impact both locally and globally.

Ultimately, the true reward isn’t in the titles or accolades—it’s in who a woman becomes through her journey. The Guyanese woman, like Miss Guyana, must embrace the humility to learn and the confidence to lead. The real wealth lies not in the rewards, but in the experience and growth along the way.

As the British say, “In for a penny, in for a pound”—the experience itself is where true power and influence are found.

Image – Billboard