David Attricki

Opening and Professional Introduction

“Good evening, distinguished guests, and thank you for joining us today to celebrate a significant moment in the career of our dear friend and colleague, Millicent Clarke. It is truly an honor to welcome each of you here in Accra, to mark the launch of a book that is as much a gift to us as it is a testament to Millicent’s remarkable journey.

Millicent’s career spans continents and industries. Her professional accomplishments are well known, but her story goes beyond titles and achievements. She has always embodied the resilience, authenticity, and wisdom of a leader who not only climbs but also extends a hand to those around her, helping others find their own paths forward. I think that is what truly sets her apart – her unwavering commitment to lift others as she rises. 

I am privy to how she has continued with the legacy of her parents by single-handedly developing some less privileged members of her extended family, spending good money to help in their education till they could stand on their own feet.  She does put her money where her mouth is.  There is another story that is begging to be told where she helped a young lady with opportunities in her career after her dad had been knocked down tragically by a car in a foreign land.  She helped her pick up the pieces and this young woman has also become an adawurma to her siblings and family. She has a way of making people special and accepted.  She has been mentoring Nana Adjoa by daughter and when I was celebrating her at her call to the bar recently in a way that made her tear up, but maybe some may have found unorthodox, Millie exclaimed… ho! wo si wo y3 extra, I will show you extra… if I were there I would have said This my daughter was not bathed with water when a baby ooo she was bathed with milk”…

Her insights are invaluable, and this book captures them in ways that only Millicent can.”

I admire the courage to publish in this book the not so positive feedback she has received over the years which may not put her in a good light together with the positive ones; just to allow people to learn from her journey – a journey that talks about different leadership styles she has been privy too.  Some that will astonish you!.  I doff my hat to you, Millie. You have always encouraged those around you to ‘wear their own fabulous shoes’ and embrace their unique path. That spirit shines on every page of her book, challenging each of us to lead with courage and with compassion

Key Takeaways from the Book

“As I read through My Gift of Bangles, I was struck by Millicent’s unique way of weaving her life experiences into powerful lessons. Her book is filled with reflections and guidance that resonate deeply, and I would like to share a few key takeaways with you today:

“Leadership is Earned, Not Given

Millicent reminds us that titles don’t make leaders—integrity and trust do. This book is a masterclass in leading with authenticity.

1. Embrace Every Experience – Every ‘bangle’ Millicent wears, from the sparkling to the rusty, represents a lesson. She teaches us to embrace both the wins and the setbacks—they shape who we are.
2. Stand Tall in Your Own Shoes – Millicent urges us all to walk proudly in our own paths. Her message is clear: own your story, build your legacy, and never apologize for it.
3. Stay Curious and Keep Learning – Every chapter is a call to action to learn, reflect, and evolve. Millicent shows us that growth is a lifelong journey.
4. Lead with Purpose – At its heart, My Gift of Bangles challenges each of us to think bigger, to lead with intention, and to leave a lasting impact that matters.”

Closing and Congratulations

Today, we’re not just launching a book; we’re unveiling a blueprint for leadership, resilience, and growth, all told through Millicent Clarke’s one-of-a-kind journey.

“Millicent, what you’ve created here is more than a book—it’s a beacon. Congratulations on this incredible accomplishment. Your story, your strength, and your vision will inspire leaders for generations.

I accept that we cannot all write about our journeys, but we can do something to help others. Sometimes it may be in a simple complement to someone which will bring a smile to his or her face.  Some of us we say thank you all the time, and not create opportunities for others to say thank you to us.  Some of us think we have a lot of time to impact our society.  I am here to give you what has lately been my refrain… Don’t define your life with your age, with your birthday… because if you are twenty years and God has planned to call you at 25, you are quite old.  If on the other hand you are 50 and God plans to call you home at 90, you are pretty young.  May I suggest that we define our lives by our death date… since we don’t know what that date is, I beg of you to be intentional about living and implementing your purpose.

Distinguished Ladies and gentlemen, every writer deserves at least one book launch in their life. Millie, may this event bring you fulfillment and joy.  Even more so when people start calling you about what a blessing your book has been to them

let’s celebrate Millicent Clarke and the gift she’s given us. My Gift of Bangles is a must-read, a must-live, and a true treasure. Let’s give her the applause she deserves!”

Introduction: Setting the Stage for Emotional Mastery

Good morning, everyone.

It’s a pleasure to be here. Today, I’m not just speaking as a leader with decades of experience but as someone deeply passionate about the often-overlooked quality that can determine the trajectory of your career: Emotional Mastery.

Emotional Mastery is more than a skill—it’s a mindset, a leadership multiplier that helps us thrive in complex and high-stakes environments. And yet, it’s only recently that leaders have begun to recognize its value. Why? Because for years, we emphasized technical expertise over emotional awareness. But we now know that understanding, managing, and influencing emotions—our own and others’—is the key to unlocking lasting success.

1. Self-Awareness: The Foundation of Emotional Mastery

Explanation: Self-awareness is about understanding who you are and how you impact others. This quality sets the foundation for all other aspects of Emotional Mastery because, as leaders, we shape the emotional climate around us.

Video Clip #1: Hidden Figures – Scene with the Judge (“Be the First”)

Show this clip after explaining Self-Awareness.

Context for the Clip: In this scene, Dorothy Vaughan persuades the judge to allow her to attend a segregated school by emphasizing her intent to be the “first” to break barriers. Her self-awareness and confidence in her capabilities empower her to make a compelling case.

Takeaway: Self-awareness often means understanding what makes you unique and using it to influence others positively. Dorothy’s ability to articulate her vision with confidence mirrors the importance of knowing your value and the impact you bring to others. This is the foundation upon which Emotional Mastery is built—by knowing yourself, you gain the power to inspire and influence effectively.

2. Self-Management: Mastering Your Responses

Explanation: Self-management is the ability to regulate your emotions under pressure. This skill enables leaders to stay calm, focused, and resilient, even in high-stakes situations.

Video Clip #2: Hidden Figures – Bathroom Speech Scene

Show this clip after explaining Self-Management.

Context for the Clip: In this powerful scene, Katherine Johnson expresses her frustration with the unfair treatment she endures daily. Her emotional release, although raw, is a reminder of the mental strength she displays despite adversity.

Takeaway: Self-management isn’t about suppressing emotions; it’s about responding constructively even when emotions run high. Katherine’s speech underscores how sometimes, self-management requires resilience amid challenges. Her ability to keep pushing forward, despite frustrations, demonstrates the strength it takes to remain composed and focused.

3. Social Awareness: Seeing Beyond Yourself

Explanation: Social awareness is about understanding the emotions and perspectives of others. As leaders, it’s essential to connect on a deeper level with those around us, recognizing their individual experiences and motivations.

Video Clip #3: The Devil Wears Prada

Show this clip after explaining Social Awareness.

Context for the Clip: In this scene, Andy learns to navigate her boss Miranda’s highly demanding expectations. Initially oblivious to the complexities of her work environment, Andy gradually gains social awareness, understanding the nuances and pressures that drive Miranda’s behavior.

Takeaway: Social awareness involves seeing beyond your perspective to empathize with others’ motivations and challenges. Just as Andy learns to read the unspoken demands of her role, leaders must cultivate an awareness of team dynamics, using empathy to build stronger connections and to support those they lead.

4. Relationship Management: Building Influence and Trust

Explanation: Relationship management is the ability to build strong, trust-filled relationships. It’s about leading with empathy and creating a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued.

Video Clip #4: Erin Brockovich

Show this clip after explaining Relationship Management.

Context for the Clip: Erin Brockovich’s commitment to the community she’s helping is inspiring. Her sincere, empathetic approach establishes deep trust and respect with the families she advocates for.

Takeaway: Erin’s ability to connect on a human level is a powerful example of relationship management. True leaders don’t just give directions; they inspire loyalty by genuinely caring about the people they lead. Erin’s approach highlights how influential we can be when we build relationships based on trust and respect.

Emotional Mastery as a Catalyst for Career Growth

To all the ambitious women here today, know that Emotional Mastery isn’t merely a “nice-to-have.” It’s your toolkit for resilience, your competitive advantage, and your compass in navigating the complexities of leadership.

Final Action Points

As we conclude, here are four actionable steps to carry forward:

1. Know Yourself Deeply – Cultivate self-awareness as your foundation.
2. Control Your Reactions – Practice self-management to stay steady in storms.
3. Empathize with Others – Use social awareness to understand and support others.
4. Nurture Relationships – Lead by building genuine connections, not just by position.

Closing Remark:

Emotional Mastery is a journey, one that will transform not just your career but your entire approach to leadership. Embrace it fully, and you’ll find that your impact as a leader will extend far beyond any role or title.

Thank you. I look forward to your questions and an engaging discussion.

Each video clip strategically enriches the presentation, offering vivid illustrations of Emotional Mastery principles in action. This structure provides clear, relatable examples, helping your audience connect deeply with the material and see how they can apply it in their own lives.

As we wrap up today, I want to share one final video. It’s a powerful reminder that we’re all capable of achieving greatness, even in the face of significant challenges. This clip from the 2016 Rio Paralympics celebrates athletes who, despite physical limitations, have pushed beyond what many would believe possible. Their resilience, dedication, and relentless practice have led them to do extraordinary things. It reminds us that we, too, can cultivate Emotional Mastery—no matter where we start. We just have to believe in our potential and be willing to put in the effort. Let’s watch this clip together.”

Takeaways to Reinforce:

1. Resilience in the Face of Obstacles – Just as these athletes overcame physical limitations, we can overcome emotional or psychological barriers. Emotional Mastery isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence, resilience, and growth.
2. Commitment to Practice – The path to mastering any skill, including Emotional Intelligence, requires consistent practice. Just as these athletes trained rigorously to reach the top, we must also practice self-awareness, empathy, and regulation.
3. Embracing Vulnerability and Strength – These athletes showcase both vulnerability and incredible strength. In the same way, Emotional Mastery involves understanding and embracing our emotions—no matter how difficult—while using them to strengthen our leadership.
4. Inspiring Change in Ourselves and Others – When we embrace Emotional Mastery, we don’t just transform ourselves; we inspire those around us. Just as these athletes inspire millions, your journey in developing Emotional Intelligence can have a ripple effect on your team and workplace.
5. Belief in Potential – These athletes defied expectations by believing in their own potential. Similarly, the first step toward Emotional Mastery is the belief that we are capable of growth. With that belief, the possibilities are endless.

This video is an uplifting, memorable way to end the session, leaving everyone inspired to pursue Emotional Mastery with the same determination as the athletes in the video.