Public Speaking Academy 2020

Public Speaking Academy 2020

Posted By admin |16 Jan 2020
Public Speaking Academy 2020

Guest blog by Sarah Beckwith, Public Speaking Academy Trainer

I remember way back in 2007 when my local president in JCI London asked if I wanted to do a public speaking course.  “Why on Earth would I want to do that?” I said – I was terrified of standing up in front of any audience.  Well in true JCI spirit, I wasn’t allowed to say no and my public speaking journey began (slowly, nervously, but it was a start).

Public speaking is not just about giving a presentation in front of a few or a few hundred people.  The ability to speak confidently is enormously helpful in all sorts of situations, from job or promotion interviews, to being put on the spot to “say a few words” at an event, to making your voice heard amongst many others in meetings.



I’ve used public speaking skills in these situations (and more!).  I still marvel that I have gone from being terrified speaking to training others.  And that, together with how important public speaking is to leadership, is why fellow trainer, Solveig Malvik and I started the JCI UK Public Speaking Academy in 2014.

Whether you have a big presentation at work coming up, have taken on a JCI leadership role that requires you to speak regularly or just want to make yourself more articulate in every day conversation, the academy can help.  Over two full days of training, you will learn how to:

  • Structure a speech
  • Consciously select clever content for maximum impact
  • Use body language to enhance your message
  • Feel comfortable not just using, but owning the stage

The academy is immersive and interactive – you will get plenty of opportunities to speak and I have never failed to be overwhelmingly proud of how far delegates push themselves over less than 48 hours.



Don’t just take my word for it, here are testimonials from previous participants:

Public Speaking Academy was a hugely useful and rewarding experience.  I’ve never been particularly shy or afraid about speaking, but PSA has given me the tools to hopefully become a really impactful public speaker”.  Chris Adamson, JCI London.  PSA 2019 graduate.  Winner – JCI UK Public Speaking Competition 2019.

“Less than 48 hours ago the thought of public speaking made me want to run and hide.  Today I gave a 5 minute speech without notes!!  This course has changed my future”.  Naomi Liston, JCI Cambridge.  PSA 2018 graduate.

Public Speaking Academy was brilliant.  I’ve learnt a lot throughout the weekend and feel now more confident to deliver and write speeches.  I really recommend it”.  Sophie Delaporte, JCI Southampton.  PSA 2016 graduate.

Or check out these write-ups:

https://www.jciuk.org.uk/finding-my-voice-public-speaking-academy/

https://www.jciuk.org.uk/jci-uk-public-speaking-academy-2018-review/

https://www.jciuk.org.uk/public-speaking-academy-2/

https://www.jciuk.org.uk/public-speaking-blog/

This year’s academy is taking place on 7/8 March in London at a cost of £79 to JCI members, for the two days training, including lunch and refreshments both days (accommodation to be arranged separately, but we’ll happily connect you to other participants if you want to arrange to share).  To sign up, visit: https://www.jciuk.org.uk/events/public-speaking-academy-2020/

Sarah