The Road Less Traveled: A Night of Courage, Truth, and Choosing Your Own Path
Lula Lounge was filled with heart as speakers took the stage for The Road Less Traveled, each one stepping into the moment with something real to share. Stories of identity, trust, belonging, and personal truth unfolded one by one, creating a night that was both powerful and deeply human.
The evening was a reminder that the road less traveled is not always clear or easy. It asks us to question what we have been taught, to trust ourselves when it would be easier not to, and to choose our own path even when it feels uncomfortable.
Through deeply personal stories and defining moments, each speaker showed what it means to stand in that choice — leaving the audience inspired by the courage it takes to live authentically, to break away from expectation, and to be fully seen.
1st Place: Nadine Zeinoun
Emotional Intelligence Specialist, Master Certified Coach, Keynote speaker
Speech: "Who Are You When It Hurts?"
Prizes Won:
- Speaker Slam®: $2,000 cash prize & Invitation to compete at the Grand Slam
- Samir Mourani: The Command the Stage Experience — Two 45-minute strategic sessions focused on mastering stage presence and commanding emotional attention. (Value: $3,500)
- Niki Papaioannou: Media Press Kit Creation — Including a professionally written biography to position you for media and speaking opportunities. (Value: $2,000)
- Janice Golding: Three Mentorship Sessions — In-depth coaching on speech writing, focus, delivery, and presentation to elevate your performance. (Priceless)
- SK Uddin: The CanadianSME Small Business Magazine Signature Cover Feature — A premium editorial spotlight recognizing you on the cover. (Priceless)
2nd Place: Jackie Mirkopoulos
Founder, Speaker, Leadership Mentor, Philanthropist
Speech: "Are you listening?"
Prizes Won:
- Speaker Slam®: Invitation to compete at the Grand Slam
- Samir Mourani: The Pace Your Way Session — A 45-minute strategic session focused on pacing your talks to build emotional depth and stronger storytelling. (Value: $2,500)
- Niki Papaioannou: Media Training Package — Three sessions designed to refine your messaging, confidence, and on-camera presence. (Value: $1,000)
- SK Uddin: The She & Success Business Magazine Cover Feature — A high-impact editorial spotlight celebrating your story and achievements. (Priceless)
- Janice Golding: Two Mentorship Sessions — Focused support on speech writing, clarity, delivery, and presentation skills. (Priceless)
3rd Place: Donna Murphy
Speaker Clarity Coach & Animal Lover
Speech: "Led By The Cloth"
Prizes Won:
- Speaker Slam®: Entry into the Wildcard Race, giving you another opportunity to earn your spot on the Grand Slam stage.
- Samir Mourani: The Who Are You? Session — A 30-minute session focused on building your authority through your speech and message. (Value: $1,500)
- Niki Papaioannou: Media Training Session — A 30-minute session designed to strengthen your presence and communication. (Value: $500)
- SK Uddin: The SMB Growth & Visibility Package — A 9-month SMB Elite membership on smehub.ca plus a free business listing on smbconnect.ca to elevate your visibility. (Value: $900+)
- Janice Golding: One-on-One Mentorship Session — Personalized guidance covering speech writing, focus, delivery, and presentation.
Meet the Judges Who Made It All Happen
- Samir Mourani - Entrepreneur, Speaker and Podcaster
- Niki Papaioannou - Entrepreneur, Media Relations Expert, and Founder of Niki Inc.
- SK Uddin - Serial Entrepreneur, Publisher, and Founder of CanadianSME Small Business Magazine
- Janice Golding - CTV News Reporter, Video journalist and Anchor
Their wisdom, warmth, and generosity provided invaluable feedback and life-changing opportunities for the competitors.
Words of Wisdom Speaker: Calissa Ngozi
One of the most meaningful moments of the night was welcoming Calissa Ngozi, our Words of Wisdom speaker and Speaker Slam alum. Her presence brought a powerful depth to the evening, sharing insight, perspective, and lived experience that grounded the room and left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. A true reflection of what is possible on this stage.
Unforgettable Moments
Vivian Meraki stepped in to co-host, bringing a calming presence and heart to the evening. A longtime member of the Speaker Slam family, she embodied the essence of the event's theme.
Momentum members showed up in full force, creating an electrifying atmosphere of support and celebration.
What's Next?
Our next competition, Identity, is happening on July 21st at Lula Lounge Toronto.