Your destination is ahead
A Tête-à-Tête With Karen Jacobsen, The Voice Of Global Positioning System
Interview
Shriya Pasricha, X B & Mokshita Grover, XII B, AIS Gurugram 43
Karen Elisabeth Jacobsen – a lady whose face may not be familiar, but her voice certainly is. As the iconic navigator of our daily journeys, she lends her voice to the GPS we rely on. Yet, her talents extend far beyond the realm of navigation. Karen is a versatile entertainer, celebrated singer, compelling motivational speaker, adept voiceover artist, and skilled songwriter. Her professional journey is a tapestry of remarkable achievements, even serving as the original female Australian voice of Siri. Moreover, she has assumed leadership roles, notably as the president of the National Speakers Association. So read on as the melodious voice that engulfs our life tells her tale.
Deliberate choice
When I read an advertisement looking for an Australian voice artist in the USA, the first thing on my mind was, “Oh, that’s me!” And so I went for the audition and successfully bagged the job. Initially, I wished to pursue singing as a career, but the universe was kind enough to me to offer a multitude of opportunities and I made sure to grab each one of them as best as I could.
Core strength
Interest and determination are two vital ingredients without which the recipe for success is incomplete. I used these two factors as the guiding force of my journey. You have to set goals and move heaven and earth to make them a reality, and if you want to gain something grand in your life, you have to sacrifice your comfort zone. A brave heart is what it takes to withstand all the obstacles in life. And if you aren’t sure or you don’t know what’s right for you, stay still and give yourself some space, because people around you will always be ready to give you a million pieces of advice. Though it is good to talk things through, please know that ultimately you are the one who knows what works for you. I refer to it as listening to your inner GPS, your heart, because in the whole world, only you know what’s best for you.
GPS tracker
It had always been a dream of mine to become the next Olivia Newton-John, but I never thought I would actually be the voice of GPS. When I took the job, it was a whole new challenge for me because I was required to spend days cloistered in a studio, reading tons of phrases and directions, but today, I feel proud that I am the one who guides people on these incredible journeys. This voiceover gig completely changed my life and I am thankful for that.
Creative process
I always aim to provide something meaningful to the world with the work I do. My recent song, I Will Not Be Lectured, addresses the hefty controversy of misogyny. The message of the song is to remind us that gender equality is of paramount importance. It is the bedrock on which we can build a great society. Therefore, each human being, irrespective of their gender must be extended equal respect and opportunities. Such projects always stay close to my heart because it is a way for me to spark up a conversation in our community about social rights and their importance.
Finding the inner calling
Please remember that it is never too late to recalculate your life. If things are not working for you, listen to your inner GPS, reroute, and go for what your heart wants. No matter how impossible the circumstances may seem; tiny steps taken one day at a time will lead you to your destination. In today’s world, there are many resources and opportunities available at your doorstep, so use them wisely. Also, always remember to be kind, supportive, and good to yourself and to the world around you.
Joy of little things
Book Review
Book: Unposted Letter
Author: Mahatria Ra
Published on: 2009
Genre: Self-help
Synopsis: The book is a beautiful experience penned by Mahatria Ra which takes the readers on a voyage into the realm of emotions and thoughts. This compilation of sixty-six concise, yet impactful unposted letters, delves into the intricacies of a human’s emotional experiences and personal development. The author paints a vivid picture through poetic prose and imaginative storytelling that has the potential to captivate the readers. The book’s objective is to make the readers appreciate the small happiness found in mundane, everyday events, which are more often than not overlooked by us. It serves as a guide on how to go beyond the harsh truths of life, savoring a smile on one’s face.
Why it is worth reading: The uniqueness of the book lies in its potential to elevate and fortify us. The author adeptly addresses matters such as love, happiness, and challenges etc., with a pragmatic touch that mirrors real-life scenarios. This book serves as a compass, guiding us towards virtuous decisions and cultivating benevolence towards others. It extends a warm, amiable hand, supporting us as we embark on our journey of enlightenment. If you seek a literary gem that elicits heartwarming emotions while aiding your quest for self-improvement, the treasures of this book are undoubtedly worthy of exploration.
Iconic quote: “Life isn’t a furnace that’s burning you, but one that’s transforming you into glittering silver.”
Rating: 5/5
Review by: Charvi Gupta, AIS Noida, VIII L