Shirley is often given the opportunity to speak at formal events, dinners, conferences, universities and in schools.  She offers an insight into life as an Olympic Athlete and a Gladiator; her delivery is in a down-to- earth manner that people can connect with easily. Formal speaking engagements have included: 

• Meningitis UK - Friends' Open Day, Shirley is a Patron of this charity which is very close to her heart, having suffered from viral meningitis
• Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Awards – guest presenter at Holyrood Palace on behalf of HRH Prince Philip
• Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games Bid - Shirley was Athlete Ambassador giving presentations in the Caribbean.  She attended the Commonwealth Games Federation General Assembly in Sri Lanka
• Youth Sport Trust - Young Ambassadors Athlete Mentor
• Scottish Universities Sport Conference
• NHS Scotland Networking Physical Activity and Health conference
• University of St. Andrew’s – Sports bursars' induction
• Forge School Sport Partnership - 'Going for Gold' Awards Evening
• sportscotland annual conference
• numerous school talks and prize givings