About Kirryn Zerna

Keynote Speaker | Communications Expert | Author | Non-Executive Director

With the soul of a storyteller and the strategy of a boardroom advisor, Kirryn brings connection to life—whether she’s speaking on stage, shaping communication strategies, or guiding leaders through complex change.

An award-winning keynote speaker, LinkedIn Top Voice in Communications, and author, Kirryn draws on 20 years in corporate communications and branding to help organisations and leaders thrive. Her signature framework, The Connect Effect, blends research, lived experience, and deeply human insight to show how connection drives performance, trust, and culture—especially in a digital world.

She’s known for her ability to create immersive experiences that stay with people long after the session ends. Whether building trust in teams, cultivating connection with customers, or helping leaders rediscover their influence, she has a way of making people feel seen, engaged, and ready to act.

The Challenges She Solves

In a world of AI, hybrid teams, and nonstop notifications, one of the biggest challenges organisations face is disconnection—with their people, their customers, and even their purpose.

Technology has changed everything. And yet, leaders are still searching for the right words, rhythms, and rituals to bring their teams together and inspire action.

Kirryn helps businesses blend the best of human connection with the best of technology. Using The Connect Effect framework, she helps leaders build trust, strengthen relationships, drive innovation and create cultures where people don’t just show up—they belong.

How Kirryn can help

Keynote Speaker, Facilitator & MC: Kirryn doesn’t just deliver keynotes—she creates moments. With warmth, energy, and insight, she guides audiences through immersive, story-rich experiences that spark new thinking and real change. Whether it’s a mainstage keynote, a leadership retreat, or an MC role, Kirryn fuses science, storytelling, and strategy to help leaders reconnect to what matters most.

Trusted Business Advisor: Beyond the stage, Kirryn partners with organisations to solve complex communication challenges. From aligning senior teams to reshaping internal messaging or co-creating engagement strategies, she brings clarity, creativity, and a trusted voice at the table. Her background in corporate strategy and board leadership gives her the edge to see the big picture—while still making it personal.

Influence & Brand Builder
Kirryn helps leaders and brands find their voice—and use it with confidence. Whether you’re shaping your executive presence, elevating workplace culture, or growing your reputation in the market, Kirryn brings practical strategies and thoughtful insight to help you stand out, stay human, and lead with impact.

• Professional Speakers Australia Leadership – Awarded the Kerrie Nairn Scholarship (2017), served on the national board, and co-convened the 2021 PSA convention
• Corporate Communications Specialist – Advised leaders across banking, government, and media on branding, messaging, and engagement.
• Small Business and Online Influence: Kirryn’s helped thousands of small businesses in the last 5 years, creating workshops for the Business Connect program (NSW) and Australian Small Business Advisory Services (federal) programs. She’s also written a book called The Stand out Effect  to help leaders get known and grow online.
• Life-Long Learner & Board Enthusiast – BComm, MMgt, GAICD, Non-Executive Director on two NFP boards, and trained with some of the world’s best: Michael Grinder, Leanne Christie, Allan Parker, Michelle Bowden, Colin James & Matt Church.

A Few Fun Facts

• ✨ Once mistaken for an Australian pop star in Capri (almost fulfilling her childhood dream of singing stardom!).
• 💡 Currently writing her first fiction novel—creating worlds on the page that echo the immersive worlds she builds on stage.
• 💑 Married to Toby, an incredible photographer, and mum to Harper and Bailey—two energetic kids who keep life lively.
• 🍷 Always up for a great conversation over a South Aussie red, glass of bubbles, or an oat flat white.

Why not call?

Kirryn would love the chance to meet with you … call today on 1300 751 883 or email on info@kirrynzerna.com.