About The Giles Academy
Creating new worlds with our words
There’s an Aboriginal tribe in Australia with no words for left and right. Instead, they use cardinal directions. So they might say, “I have a pain in my northwest leg.” To you and I, that might seem like a complicated way of doing things. But not to them. That’s because at any moment in time, they can tell you which direction they’re facing. A six-year-old child can point to northwest without a second thought.
Alongside many other case studies, this tells us something important about language. Language isn’t just a reflection of our world, it shapes it. Our language limits or enhances our cognitive and creative abilities. It shapes how we see things, how we relate to the world and what we focus on. We form language and then language forms us, in a never-ending circle.
Did you know there are over 7,000 languages in the world? That means there are over 7,000 different ways of thinking. This is hugely exciting for two reasons. First, it’s testament to the great diversity of the human spirit. It’s a call to keep an open mind, and to see other perspectives as valid and valuable too.
Secondly, it means our words are loaded with power. It means we can mould our lives and the lives of others by choosing the words we use thoughtfully. We can undo unhelpful ways of thinking and foster positive change. We can create new worlds by using new language.
This realm of endless potential drives our mission to understand how to use words to master our worlds and achieve our most longed-for goals. We are committed to passing on our learnings through thoroughly researched, accessible and high-impact training.
Mission
To give people the tools to communicate effectively and harness the great power of words – for themselves and for far-reaching positive impact.
Vision
A bright future built consciously, word by carefully crafted word.
Freya Giles – word master and sought-after message maker
For two decades, Freya has been a writer and communications consultant, working with individuals, SMEs and the world’s biggest brands to help them achieve their communication goals. She is the founder of The Giles Agency, one of Asia’s leading creative agencies, and The Giles Academy, a learning hub for ambitious communicators.
Freya is a sought-after speaker, trainer and coach, dedicated to helping her students harness the great power of words for themselves.
“Speak clearly, if you speak at all; carve every word before you let it fall.”