Monique Strydom

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SPEAKER DETAILS

Keynote speaker Monique Strydom is known as one of the 21 hostages who was held hostage by Abu Sayyaf rebels for 127 days in the jungle on the Philippine island of Jolo in 2000. Their group was in the hands of murderous terrorists, under continuous attack by the military, had to run for their lives through unforgiving territory, had very little food and water and were subject to many other dangers. The fact that not one of the hostages was killed is seen as a miracle.

Monique is one of the Sipadan hostages who survived a 4-month ordeal in the hands of ruthless terrorists. She tells a real life story, which made international headlines – and changed the lives of all involved. More and more people are globally exposed to terrorism and dealing with the aftermath of terrorist attacks. Some have not survived these ordeals; others have been lucky and now live to tell their stories…

If you’re looking for an inspirational speaker who has a real life story to tell…someone who has faced adversity…someone who has seen death…someone who has survived against all odds…someone who has come back and are using the lessons learnt to change the lives of others…Monique Strydom is one of the lucky survivors and her story has captivated people across the world. She was recently nominated as one of the Greatest Women of the Century by the American Biographical Institute.

Callie and Monique Strydom have received the love and respect, not only from the people of South Africa, but also from people like Nelson Mandela and President Thabo Mbeki. They have also rubbed shoulders with many superstars and world leaders. The Strydoms are the recipients of the numerous awards including the prestigious Newsmaker of the Year Award and the Rotrary International Paul Harris Award (Callie Strydom).

Callie and Monique are the proud parents of Luc who was born a year after their release. Monique resides in Cape Town, South Africa.

PRESENTATIONS by Monique Strydom MOTIVATIONAL LIFE IS LIKE A BOX OF CHOCOLATES This one hour presentation will inspire all to overcome trauma by discovering the importance of selflove, forgiveness and staying positive. Serious but light - with much wisdon and laughter. Ideal for female audiences. A SINGLE GRAIN OF RICE In this 1 hour 15 minute presentation, Monique recounts details of their ordeal and the lessons learned. The talk is divided into various sections: SECTION 1 - TAKEN HOSTAGE: The first encounter with the terrorists (the capture) Loosing freedom – and other things (coping with loosing freedom) Dealing with fear Breaking the hostages (conditions they were kept in and what were done to the hostages) Facing death (describing a military attack) SURVIVING TRAUMA How they survived trauma and the lessons learned in dealing with extreme trauma The pain of suffering and what it does to you The invaluable knowledge gained on interpersonal relationships, the power of a positive attitude, and courage. THE IMPORTANCE OF SUPPORT The support structures that kept them positive and alive. LESSONS FROM CAPTIVITY/SURVIVAL LESSONS This 1 hour talk was first presented at the IFFFP Global Summit (Cape Town 2009). This talk starts with a short video introduction, taken from the National Geographic documentary on their ordeal. During this talk the audience is challenged to survive after being shipwrecked. Monique shares with the audience how they survived and what tools they used to survive – the mental and physical tools! SPIRITUAL “ABOUT GOD AND HIS MIRACLES” (MINISTRY MESSAGE) During this 40 min to 1 hour talk, Monique – relives the miracles she witnessed during her captivity. Feeling God’s presence from the moment they were taken hostage to more recent events. OTHER WOMEN! A short talk tongue-in-the-cheek talk about women through the ages and what important skills they have taught women of today. Definitely only for women audiences! COMPERE Monique has hosted various events including the SAPS Women’s Awards, Servamus Centenary Gala Event and the Borrowed Angels Gospel Concert. CHARITY APPEARANCES Both Callie and Monique have been guests at numerous charity events and are always willing to help and participate where possible.

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