what people are saying
Dr. Miriam’s Testimonials
From in-person keynotes to virtual workshops, Dr. Miriam Kirmayer inspires connection with research-backed strategies and a healthy dose of humor and humanity. Don’t just take our word for it— see what others are saying.
Krystal Mittler, 2025
“From our very first exploratory call with Dr. Miriam Kirmayer, it was clear she was the perfect choice to open our annual Waterloo Staff Conference in April 2025. Her warmth, charisma, and infectious enthusiasm immediately set the tone for what would become one of the most memorable keynotes our university has had in years.
In a time of significant uncertainty, like many post-secondary institutions across Canada, we’re navigating budget constraints and resource challenges, and we were searching for a speaker who could uplift and unite our staff. Miriam delivered far beyond our expectations. Her groundbreakingwork on friendship and belonging resonateddeeply with our community, offering not just inspiration but tangiblestrategies to foster meaningful connection and start to combat any feelings of loneliness.
The impact of her keynote was immediate and profound. From the moment she stepped off stage, we saw participants engaging in new ways – introducing themselves to other participants, exchanging contact information, and rekindling relationships with colleagues they hadn’t connected with in years. Her message didn’t just land – it sparked a movement.
Beyond her dynamic and engaging speaking style, Miriam was a dream to collaborate with. She was thoughtful and intentional in understanding the unique needs of our institution, she was highly organized throughout the planning process, and she generously shared post-conference insights and tools to help us sustain the momentum she created. She even stayed after her keynote to personally connect with attendees, leaving a lasting impression that extended well beyond the conference itself.
Months later, our campus is still making time for intentional connections thanks to her keynote. Dr. Kirmayer is not only a brilliant speaker, she’s a catalyst for connection, and a true partner in creating meaningful change. We recommend her wholeheartedly and are grateful for her time with us.”
Krystal Mittler
Events and Programs Coordinator
Organizational and Human Development, Human Resources, University of Waterloo
Christa Gillis, Ph.D., 2025
“Dr. Miriam Kirmayer illustrates the importance of connection and friendship – and the opportunities they hold – in a time when loneliness is seen as an epidemic. Her openness to a pre-event consultation ensured that her engaging, professional keynote aligned with our theme. She was a pleasure to work with throughout the planning and delivery of our event.”
Christa Gillis, Ph.D.
APEX Executive: Applied Research and Leadership Centre of Excellence
Association of Professional Executives of the Public Service of Canada
Attendees, 2025
“The BEST friendship advice... everyone should hear it!”
“So beneficial for community and sisterhood based organizations.”
“I gained “insight and answers to the loneliness epidemic many people are experiencing, which is particularly hard for people who are always surrounded by others!”
Attendees,
Kappa Delta National Convention
Attendees, 2025
"Mindset changing. Something that can change or impact how a team functions."
“Great presentation! Would highly recommend this to anyone looking to build better team morale that will lead to overall well being (it spills over).”
"I found this talk captivating. Dr. M has a really good energy. She turned the whole room in to a safe space and engaged the audience."
Attendees
Canadian Institute for Procurement and Material Management
Nick Thomas, Director, Revenue Enablement, Docebo
“Truly energizing and deeply relevant! Dr. Miriam Kirmayer’s keynote was a standout moment of our RKO. Her insights on collaboration, connection, and purpose was a great reminder that while our day-to-day roles may differ, our goals are shared. She gave us the language, tools, and mindset to work better together.”