In a world that often encourages us to play small, there are spaces being created where individuals can explore what it truly means to step into their greatness. I recently had the privilege of attending one such transformative gathering led by the inspiring Patrenia Werts Onuoha, our Co-host and amazing the Yoli Ray, a Photographer and Human Design Life Coach
Setting the Stage for Transformation
The workshop opened with a profound touch—a prayer for empowerment that immediately set the intention for our time together. As we moved through introductions, sharing not just names but expectations,at this point, it became clear that everyone present was hungry for something deeper than just another self-help session.
The icebreaker activity, though simple in execution, created an immediate sense of community. There’s something powerful about voicing your hopes in a room full of strangers who quickly become allies in your journey.
Finding Inspiration in Unexpected Places
What made this workshop unique was its creative foundation. Drawing inspiration from the concept of being “Bigger,” Patrenia guided the attendees through exercises designed to help them recognize the vastness of their potential. The workshop cleverly used this theme as a springboard to discuss how people often limit themselves and the practical steps that can be taken to break through those self-imposed boundaries.
The Podcast Connection
Interwoven with the workshop was the introduction to our amazing Podcast, Peppersoup Stories, with its powerful mission: reframing adversity as advantage. This perspective shift resonated deeply with many participants, who began sharing personal stories of challenges they had overcome.
“I never thought of my struggles as preparation for something greater,” one participant reflected, her voice filled with newfound clarity. “But when you look at them as training grounds rather than obstacles, everything changes.“
The 3C Framework for Personal Growth
A highlight of the session was the introduction of the 3C model:
- Clarity – Defining your vision and purpose with precision
- Competence – Developing the skills and knowledge necessary for your journey
- Confidence – Building the self-belief to pursue your goals despite obstacles
This framework provided a practical structure for participants to assess where they currently stand and what they need to develop next.
Beyond Theory: Practical Applications
The workshop didn’t just deal in abstractions. Patrenia introduced several methodologies for goal-setting, including the “12 Week Year” approach, which breaks annual goals into more manageable quarterly objectives.
Human Design: Discovering Your Energetic Blueprint
One of the most fascinating elements of the workshop was the deep dive into human design, which Yoli described as a system that combines ancient modalities with modern science to provide insights into individual working styles and paths to success.
Participants were visibly excited when receiving their human design charts, with many expressing amazement at the accuracy of the results. This moment of recognition created a palpable energy in the room as people began to understand themselves in new ways.
Yoli explained the five energy types in Human Design:
- Manifestors (8% of population): The initiators of change and new possibilities
- Generators (37%): Possessors of life force energy that allows sustained work on passionate projects
- Manifesting Generators (32%): Multitaskers who combine the energy of both manifestors and generators
- Projectors (22%): Guides who often feel frustrated when their insights aren’t acknowledged
- Reflectors: Rare individuals who sample and amplify the energy of those around them
The discussion about undefined emotional centers was particularly illuminating—explaining how some individuals naturally absorb the emotions of others, creating both challenges and gifts in how they navigate relationships.
The 12 Week Year: Revolutionizing Goal Achievement
Addressing a challenge many of us face, Yoli expressed concern about the common pattern of New Year’s resolutions losing steam by mid-January. Her solution? The 12 Week Year methodology.
This approach challenges conventional annual planning, suggesting that we can accomplish more in 12 focused weeks than in an entire year of diffused effort. By compressing timelines and increasing accountability, participants learn to create what Yoli called “an aligned plan”—one that respects both ambition and individual working style.
“The magic happens when your goals align with your natural energy,” Yoli explained, connecting the human design insights with practical achievement strategies.
Beyond Theory: Practical Applications
The workshop didn’t just deal in abstractions. Participants were guided through exercises to apply these frameworks to their own lives, creating personalized roadmaps that honored their unique designs while stretching their capabilities.
There was rich conversation about honoring individual differences while still pushing beyond comfort zones—a delicate balance that many personal development approaches fail to address.
The Heart of Growth: Emotional Intelligence
Perhaps the most touching moments came during discussions about emotional reflection and self-acceptance. Participants shared vulnerabilities about their struggles with self-love and the ongoing work of building resilience.
“You can’t pour from an empty cup,” Patrenia reminded us. “Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential for sustainable growth.”
Tools for Ongoing Transformation
As the workshop progressed, we were encouraged to create personal manifestos—powerful statements of intent that articulate our values and aspirations. The room filled with energy as people drafted affirmations designed to reinforce new, empowering beliefs about themselves.
The Power of Community
Throughout the session, one theme emerged repeatedly: none of us grows in isolation. The importance of community support was emphasized not just in theory but demonstrated in practice as participants offered each other encouragement and insights.
“Finding your tribe changes everything,” one participant noted. “There’s a different kind of accountability when you’re surrounded by people who see your potential even when you don’t.“
Looking Forward
As the workshop concluded, there was a tangible sense that something had shifted for many in attendance. The closing discussions centered around collaboration opportunities and how participants could continue supporting each other’s journeys.
Feedback was not just welcomed but actively sought—a testament to Patrenia’s commitment to creating truly transformative experiences that evolve with the needs of her community.
Final Thoughts
Walking away from the workshop, one thing was striking, it was the question of how rarely we give ourselves permission to think bigger about our lives. In a culture that often rewards conformity, spaces like this one—where imagination is encouraged and potential is honored—are precious indeed.
The combination of Patrenia’s empowerment framework with Yoli’s expertise in human design and goal-setting methodologies created a comprehensive approach to personal growth that addresses both the spiritual and practical aspects of transformation.
Whether you’re feeling stuck, seeking clarity, or simply ready to level up, workshops like this one remind us that with the right tools, community, and mindset, we all have the capacity to step into something bigger than we’ve previously allowed ourselves to become.
Have you attended an empowerment workshop that changed your perspective? What tools do you use to push beyond your comfort zone? Share your experiences in the comments below!
