About Kirryn Zerna

Keynote Speaker | Connection Catalyst | Communications Strategist | Author

In a digital age, connection is your edge — and unlocking its effect is your superpower.

Kirryn Zerna is an award-winning keynote speaker, LinkedIn Top Voice in Communications, and creator of The Connect Effect. She helps leaders, teams, and customer-facing professionals shift the way they connect — to leave a Connection Signature that’s unique, memorable, and unmistakably human. One that represents your business, amplifies your personal brand, and stands the test of time in the age of AI.

In an era defined by automation, hybrid work, and shifting customer expectations, Kirryn helps audiences master what machines can’t replace: the power to earn trust, spark loyalty, and revitalise culture. Her work sits at the intersection of behavioural science, digital communication, and real-world leadership — blending evidence with energy, and strategy with story.

With over 20 years in brand strategy and corporate communication, Kirryn has advised executive teams, served on boards, and supported high-performing organisations including Westpac, Carsales.com.au, Wella, Thermomix, REIWA, John Holland, and ARN.

Her signature keynote, The Connect Effect, is a powerful blueprint for creating connection that performs. Through the lenses of Trust, Tribe, and Thrive, Kirryn shows audiences how to take off the mask, create signature rituals, and future-proof human connection in a world of constant change.

Whether speaking to 20 leaders or 700 professionals, Kirryn delivers fresh insight, electric energy, and practical tools that transform how people connect — with their clients, their teams, and for leaders.

How Kirryn Can Help

• 🎤 Keynote Speaker | Facilitator | MC — High-energy keynotes, tailored to your people and your purpose. Kirryn creates story-rich experiences that spark conversation and ignite lasting change. Whether on stage, online or hosting your event, she brings clarity, warmth and edge.
• 🌐 Strategic Advisor — Kirryn partners with executive teams on internal comms, culture strategy and brand storytelling — helping solve complex challenges and co-create messages that truly connect. Her edge? She sees the big picture and the human detail.
• ✨ Brand & Influence Workshops — Practical strategies to elevate executive presence, shape culture and connect with impact. Whether you’re building visibility, aligning your team or finding your voice, she helps you show up with purpose and presence.

Credentials & Highlights

• Professional Speakers Australia Scholarship recipient, past Board Member & 2021 Convention Co-Chair
• Creator of The Connect Effect — a program for leaders, teams & sales professionals
• Author of The Stand Out Effect — a framework to grow visibility and influence
• Postgraduate qualifications from Sydney Uni, Macquarie Uni, and GAICD
• Non-Executive Director on two purpose-driven boards

A Few Fun Facts

• 🎤 Once mistaken for an Aussie pop star in Capri (not mad about it).
• 📚 Writing her debut dystopian fiction novel — another world where connection is currency.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Married to Toby, an incredible photographer, and mum to Harper & Bailey.
• ☕ Always up for a great conversation over coffee, bubbles or oat flat white.

Why not call?

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