Testimonials

“Thanks for teaching me public speaking this term. You are an excellent teacher, kind and patient and I always enjoy your lessons. I am more confident about speech than my drama class(I used to do a drama class) and I have learnt how to use hand gestures more effectively. Thx for all the hard work you have put in.

Your voice is clear, like the gentle sunlight sprinkling on the Navy blue ocean. You always help me when I don’t know something and you always make me feel exhilarated after your lessons. I am always excited on Mondays and always think about it everyday.”

“I’m very grateful to have found Sophie. She is truly wonderful at building self confidence with kids who are struggling at doing presentations. Both my children have attended her holiday workshops before and have had a really good experience. And now when my daughter needed help to do her presentation at Uni, she has very kindly jumped in to support her, She is very warm hearted and is very creative in her approach. I would strongly recommend her programs. Thank-you so much Sophie.”

“Simply.. thankyou Sophie ! My daughter did the children’s confidence course followed by the public speaking course. Both worked on building her confidence which shows in my daughters life now. She became more confident in going to Tafe and is now working and is contributing to her work place with confidence.
Thanks a million Sophie. I have recommended you to others :)”

“Your analysis on Aiyaz Sayed/Khaiyum, the defacto dictator of Fiji (2006- 2022), was insightful and illuminating.”

“I was looking for an expert in nonverbal behaviours who could deliver a training session on perceiving and identifying stress behaviours in others, and Sophie was recommended to me by a colleague.

Sophie pulled together an informative and interactive training session proficiently tailored to my brief that went beyond original expectations and incorporated fascinating insights about how a person’s own nonverbal behaviours can make myself and others feel.

I was very impressed with Sophie’s ability to engage an audience via video conference, and found this to be one of the most interesting training sessions I have attended. I was pleased to find myself perceiving and interpreting stress behaviours in others in the days following the training without consciously searching for them.”

“I cannot say enough about Sophie! This multitalented person made such a huge difference in the children’s lives. They look forward to every single class with her.

Sophie is eclectic, passionate, fun, warm, caring and most important she makes you feel comfortable from the minute you meet her! No one in class felt left out; we had a great time communicating during the classes. I definitely, highly recommend Sophie as the first resource to people who struggle with public speaking anxiety or to people who need to improve!

Actually, I highly recommend, any, if not all the workshops with Sophie…It will be money well spent.”

“The Rotary Club of Kenwick Club invited Sophie to speak, and we found her booking process to confirm an evening presentation was vey easy, her topic interesting and it was delivered in a humorous and professional manner. To her credit she adapted very well when the sound system failed. I cannot recommend Sophie and her topic of body language and effective communication high enough.”

“My four home-schooled children attended Sophie’s public speaking course last term and they loved it! Sophie is a wonderful teacher and her lovely, gentle approach was perfect or my ASD and dyslexic kids. They were always keen to go to class and happy to do the homework.

The whole course is presented in such a comfortable and flowing way that even my most reluctant writer was excited to sit down and do his homework. Having children of different ages, I was beyond happy with the skilful way Sophie was able to meet the children where they were at and tailor the coursework to their ability.

Along with speech writing, they learned how to calm their nerves, hold their bodies and how to use their hands. The confidence to speak in any setting is so important and this course has absolutely given them the confidence and also some very useful skills. So grateful to have found a wonderful teacher.”

“Thank you so much for coming in on Monday and sharing with our staff. I am very sorry I had to duck out after about 30 minutes but was engrossed myself and upset I had to leave. I have had nothing but very positive feedback from those who attended – one Head of Department popped his head in to “see what it was about” for 15 minutes and ended up staying for the whole presentation!”

“Sophie is an excellent teacher we thought the body language course was very well laid out in an informative and entertaining way. I would highly recommend this course.”

“The company I’m working with has a team of deep technical experts who are amazing at solving technical problems, however communicating and having the confidence to do so does not always come naturally. We wanted to encourage this team of experts to be more confident and competent in their interactions with colleagues and leaders and we were recommended to Sophie and myalcomy.

Some of my colleagues were a little unsure about how our technical experts would warm to a session on non-verbal communication as it’s almost as far from a technical topic as you could get.

After my initial meet and greet with Sophie I was confident that she was perfect for the team. She took the time to understand who we were targeting, what their needs were and delivered a session that they could relate to.

We all thoroughly enjoyed the session and some of the key points that Sophie mentioned really resonated with the team as they continue to mention them. I consider myself a communications expert, unlike the target audience, and can’t believe how much I took away from the session.

I would highly recommend Sophie for her professionalism, knowledge and ability to really understand the problem you’re trying to solve or team you want to develop as she will get the results you are seeking.”

“An excellent informative workshop based on real school experiences.”

“Excellent class. Learning something new while having fun. Facial technique is a fascinating subject and by the time came to leave your head is full of new knowledge and the world is a different place than when you came in. Very much recommended.”

“Another sparkling session and plenty of laughs. You will never look at people the same again so don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn the mystery of facial expressions and a whole lot more. Plus a chance to see just how good you can interpret your newly found observational skills into a take home clay model. Magic!”

“A very appropriate and relevant session that provides strategies and support for all school admin regardless of school level and context. Left the session with access to lots of new knowledge and skills. Thank you. ”

“I contacted my alCOM.y for some expert body language analysis. Please consider this an acknowledgement of what an eye opening experience it was, & the respect I gained for Sohpie Halliday Zadeh.

While her sharply honed skills were obvious from the start. Sophie’s passion for her craft really made it an experience. The kind that only professionals who actually love their work can deliver. Sophie was genuinely motivated to provide real value far beyond any expectation. She generously showed the tenacity to make sure that literally every conceivable element was carefully considered.

Sophie’s work inspired confidence. That great care had been taken to provide me with accurate, objective, & actionable information. It was resolved down to qualifying the level of certainty that each gesture allowed her. Sophie went above & beyond by providing, & identifying further avenues to learn more about the situation. It was no surprise that the subsequent information found, confirmed her analysis.

I came to this as a person with only the normal limited understanding of non-verbal communication. I had previously experienced difficulty even comprehending the issue that motivated my enquiry. Because it came to me from a stranger, & without ever a word spoken to explain it. What I learned is just how much communication most of us let slip by unidentified, & how much uncertainty & anxiety it can truly cause us. Sometimes this outcome can even be the intention.

So I feel genuinely fortunate that I found my alCOM.y. Sophie was by far the single most positive influence on the situation. What I took away was how powerful her expert knowledge of body language can be, in any aspect’s of our lives. I quickly thought of a multitude of everyday reasons to call on Sophie’s skills & ability to educate again.

So if there is any reason at all, that you see a need to understand, or master the things that are said, without speaking a word. I would recommend you get in contact with my alCOM.y & Sophie Halliday Zadeh. I would bet you feel fortunate that you did.”

“I attended the art sculpture workshop by Sophie Halliday Zadeh and was pleasantly surprised about how much I learned from Sophie. A new world opened for me by looking at people’s facial expressions and more detailed the microexpressions and how they reveal someone’s insight and their thinking.

I have watched interviews after my lessons and it was amazing how much is revealed by purely watching, implementing what I have learned about facial and microexpressions.

Must admit practising those skills is quite addictive and fun. Thank you so much Sophie for teaching me those valuable life skills.”

“Extremely enjoyable informative and interesting day.”

“Being the only female in a meeting can be challenging so any tips to assist with getting a different point of view across successfully is worth pursuing. Having recently attended a Non-verbal Communications session of Sophie’s I sat with both feet on the floor and hands on the table where I noticed my natural position was to cross my legs and clasp my hands on the table!

I leaned in, attempted to drop my tone of voice plus with the evidence I had for my challenge commenced my “point”.

Every time I reverted to my natural posture, a closed position, I was aware and opened my position again.

These changes, small as they may seem, made me feel more confident and I’m sure made me appear ‘larger’ to the recipients such that they accepted my position.”

“Sophie provided an expert understanding of body language and offered skills to present our ‘best self’ through her workshop. She took the time to understand our context and tailored her program to best meet the needs of our organisation. Personally, I apply the knowledge I gained through Sophie’s presentation on a daily basis—it has been invaluable. I highly recommend Sophie’s work to anyone who wants to grow as a person and a leader and has a desire to create positive team environments.”

“Sophie is a brilliant speaker coach and all round advisor for improving your ability to communicate effectively. I was lucky enough to be appointed Sophie to help me with my TEDx talk in 2018 and I honestly feel it wouldn’t have been as impactful and well received if it wasn’t for her guidance and advice. I would highly recommend Sophie to anyone considering her services!”

“Sophie is so wonderful to work with. She is proactive and detailed oriented, and managed the TEDxPerth speaker process expertly. For each stage of the process her gauge of the situation was spot on and I readily leaned on her for advice. I would highly recommend good humoured and responsive Sophie for coaching or training.”

“Sophie graciously volunteered her time to present at our Joondalup event, aimed at assisting women in returning work and at our program for the residents of Bandyup Maximum Security Women’s Prison, as part of their pre-release program. Being able to work with the women at just the right time - bringing them her content and insight - was invaluable, as confirmed by attendee feedback. Sophie is a charismatic presenter and is passionate about her subject matter. Thank you so much for joining us.”

“You will need Sophie on your side if you are making a presentation or doing a talk or a speech. I did my first ever BIG talk on a TedXPerth platform and it was possible primarily due to Sophie. She was very calm, patient, thoughtful, insightful, forgiving and motivating. Super professional and a super human to connect with.”

“Sophie has been absolutely amazing coach, who showed patience, style and firmness. She was able to guide me through the very involved process of writing and delivering a TED talk. I am very thankful for all the advice, techniques and understanding that I received from the very first time we met to the very last minute before going on stage. I could not recommend Sophie more as a speaking coach, especially for women who want to progress further in their public speaking and presentations.”

“Excellent Session. Clear, consise and relevant. Simple strategies to practise that will have big impact. Presenter was brilliant. I thought the time frame was also spot on.

Proof will now be in the pudding ie do I practise the strategies and do they occur without the stress...up to me now!

Thanks”

“I had the privilege of attending several events at which Sophie Zadeh presented. Her energy, whilst deceptively gentle and calm was arresting - she vividly paints pictures with words and anecdotal stories which delivered clear and persuasive messages.

As a speaker, Sophie has the advantage because she truly understands peoples’ why. She is intuitive, clever and articulate. Her accent is appealing.

Sophie’s topics were historically varied and far reaching. She was engaging and passionate, respectful and resourceful and the thing that always stood out was her relatability. I have attended events where Sophie has presented to small and large groups and I was always impressed by her ability to communicate the message, theme, idea clearly from the stage.

Her considerable understanding of body language and active listening meant that she zoned in on what the audience was enjoying, processing and ensured that the delivery married to the outcomes. I enjoyed Sophie’s presentations so much I lobbied for her to present at events in Cairns and North Queensland.

I cannot speak highly enough of Sophie’s skill set and would commend her to you as a brilliant and entertaining speaker.”

“I always love Sophie’s presentations, she is so vibrant and engaging. I always feel like she is talking directly to me and I love how she leads you on a journey where you can’t wait to hear what she is going to say next. The subject matter could have been a bit dry if not for Sophie’s wonderful way of interacting with the audience. Her genuine enthusiasm always leaves me empowered and excited to try things for myself. Without a doubt she is one of my favourite presenters at our conferences. I have to admit, occasionally I’ve nodded off during other people’s presentations but there is never a risk of that with Sophie. Can’t wait to hear her next presentation.”

“Sophie, has provided me with something that is rare these days - a piece of mind. After asking her to help with some verbal analysis of a text exchange...the analysis provided, was not only done so in an expedient manner, but helped me realise that it was my interpretation, intent and content of the exchange that was askew as opposed to the other person. Sophie picked up on the slightest tidbits, and provided studies and reasoning to go along with her claims.
Should I ever find myself in a similar quagmire, I would have no hesitation in paying for her services again.”

“Sophie is a charismatic presenter. The two hours flew because it was so interesting and eye opening.

I have become very aware of my blocking behaviours. Hopefully in my next interview I will be able to successfully use what Sophie has shown me.

Thank you.”

“Your professional development session on nonverbal communication was probably the best PD I have attended in my time as a teacher in WA. Thank you for the skills you have taught me that will optimise my performance as a teacher.”

“Sophie has been a great help. I’ve always closed people off and been unapproachable (been told this by strangers and loved ones) after our session and me becoming more aware of my body language, I noticed people approaching me more and being more talkative. For example, a guy in shopping centre wanting people to sign me up for monthly donations. Even though I declined he still spoke to me and talked about his kids and some fun facts etc.
It definitely makes a difference being more aware. Even in myself, I feel more confident and open.”

“Sophie Zadeh’s expertise in non-verbal communication and her engaging presentation style provides valuable insights every person can apply to their personal and professional life.

I have invited Sophie to work with a number of groups of school leaders working in public education in Western Australia. All have reported insightful takeaways that have grown their confidence and communication skills in networking, leading staff, engaging parents and working with students. ”

“We approached Sophie Zadeh as she has the unique expertise to deliver training in the science of Body Language.

Sophie has delivered two programs, the first on deception detection for school leaders aimed at improving their investigation techniques, the second focusing on the use of body language to enhance success for women in leadership.

Participant feedback from both programs was overwhelmingly positive, both in terms of the evidence and research based content and Sophie’s high quality, engaging and authentic presentation skills.

I have, and will continue to recommend Sophie to any organisation looking for professional learning and or coaching in the science of Body Language.”

“I just want to thank you for all the help you provided me to understand myself better, and how can I improve my personability. What I learnt from you has definitely helped me and I am sure will continue to help forever and for that, I am greatly thankful to you. I can feel a very positive difference after practising what I learnt from you.”

“Sophie is an outstanding trainer! She is an out of the box thinker and uses her creativity to make her training fun and engaging which makes it more memorable and meaningful. Sophie always comes prepared, does extensive research before each training, and tailors each presentation to the client’s needs. I highly recommend Sophie as a Body Language and Micro-expressions trainer and speaker because she will hook your audience and will keep them entertained in addition to providing them with a wealth of knowledge that they will be able to apply immediately to their business and personal lives. You won’t be disappointed if you choose Sophie for your next event!”

“I have partnered with Sophie to coach high performing executives in the art of presentation and body language. Her knowledge of her subject matter is excellent. She has the research to support her findings and can offer advice in a positive, constructive manner. For most individuals in an executive role, the secrets of body language are empowering and exciting. I highly recommend her services to anyone looking to boost their interpersonal skills.”

“Sophie provided my sales team training on the finer points of verbal and nonverbal communication when dealing with customers and their colleagues. She was a delight to deal with and kept everyone engaged. I would strongly recommend using her within your own business.”

“I had the pleasure of having one to one training with Sophie on numerous occasions. Sophie was able to deliver complex and a high volume of information in an easy to understand format. The training was fun and informative. Sophie has an empathetic style, tailoring the training to my skills and knowledge, never making me feel overwhelmed or anxious. I walked away from the training feeling competent and ready to face my new role within the organisation. From my experience of 20 plus years of sales, I highly recommend Sophie as one of the few trainers who has been able to change her style to meet the needs of the individual and has given me new skills and renewed confidence in a high end sales role.”

“Sophie Zadeh has an innate ability to identify and help you uncover your very own superpowers! With her extensive knowledge of body language and non-verbal communication together with a captivating delivery method, Sophie inspires you to experience first hand the immediate and positive impact body language can have, both personally and professionally.

If you are lucky enough to be trained by Sophie like I was, you’re in for a real treat. An expert in her field, an insightful and inspiring trainer, with a genuine desire to help her clients reach their goals, Sophie is the key to living a more empowered life.

I for one am now experiencing new levels of confidence, courage and impact that has up-leveled my life far beyond my expectations. Thank you, Sophie!”

“Sophie is an amazing trainer, I was lucky enough to have one on one training with her. It’s like chatting with a friend! You’ll be amazed at how much body language influences your day to day life. Sophie’s workbook is the perfect learning tool to help you understand each sector and every activity is simple and fun!”

“Sophie has that rare blend of professionalism and strategic focus combined with best practice delivery within Training I would recommend any enterprise and/or colleague try to work with Sophie if you only wish to work with genuine professionals as I do.”