An Experience I’ll Never Forget: My Keynote at ICAN 2025
- Michelle Vinokurov
- 32 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Standing on that stage at the ICAN 2025 Conference, delivering my keynote speech, was one of the most powerful, emotional, and unforgettable moments of my professional life.
I remember taking a deep breath before I walked out. My heart was pounding, not just from nerves, but from excitement. The kind of excitement that only comes when you realize you’re about to speak your truth in front of people who truly care. People who get it. People who are pouring their hearts into making this world kinder, more compassionate, and just a little brighter than it was yesterday.
As I stood at the podium, scanning the room filled with educators, advocates, professionals, and fellow dreamers, I didn’t just see faces—I saw energy. I saw curiosity, compassion, and connection. In that moment, it hit me—I was surrounded by people who truly understood, and I didn’t have to carry it all by myself. Every word I spoke came straight from my heart—stories from my journey, the challenges I’ve faced, the lessons I’ve learned including with employment, and the hope I hold onto. I wanted to be real. Honest. Human.
And something beautiful happened.
The Room Was With Me
There were nods. Smiles. A few teary eyes. And then—applause. Not just polite clapping, but the kind of applause that reaches your soul. The kind that says, “We felt that.” And I’ll never forget it.
The response was overwhelming and unforgettable in the most humbling way. So many people came up to me afterward with warm hugs, encouraging words, and powerful stories of their own. People thanked me for being vulnerable. For sharing my voice. For saying the things they didn’t always know how to express.
But what they didn’t know was that I was the one who felt honored.
Conversations That Meant Everything
Before and after my keynote speech, I had the amazing opportunity to connect with so many incredible individuals, from autistic self advocates to parents and professionals. Some were just starting out in the field. Others were seasoned professionals with decades of experience. Yet, in every conversation, there was a common thread—this shared passion for impact, for empathy, for transformation.
A mother, accompanied by her remarkable, nonspeaking autistic daughter, Elizabeth Bonker, shared with me that my words reignited the passion she felt when she first began this work. It reminded her of the reason she dedicates herself, not only for her daughter but for the entire autism and nonspeaking community. We shared dreams, we exchanged contact info, and we planned to keep in touch. And I truly hope we do.
Those unforgettable moments—those real, human connections—meant the world to me. They reminded me that conferences like ICAN aren’t just about learning—they’re about belonging.
More Than Just a Conference
ICAN 2025 was so much more than an unforgettable, speaking opportunity. It was a gathering of heart-centered changemakers. A space where I felt deeply connected, both professionally and personally. A place where I could show up as myself—fully, honestly, and without hesitation.
I walked away with so much: inspiration, new friendships, professional insights, and most of all—a full heart.
Thank You, ICAN
To the organizers who believed in my message, to everyone who showed up and listened, and to every person who came up to talk, hug, or just smile—thank you. Being with you brought me back to the heartbeat of why I started this journey in the first place. You reminded me that our voices matter. That connection is powerful and unforgettable. And that we’re never in this alone.
This keynote wasn’t just a milestone. It was a moment of purpose. And I’ll carry it with me, always.
Lastly, I’m beyond thrilled to finally share the recording of my keynote speech from the ICAN 2025 conference, "Unlocking Potential: Empowering Neurodiverse Individuals in the Workplace." This unforgettable moment meant so much to me, and I can’t wait for you to experience it too. Watch here:
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