Public speaking is a crucial skill for anyone seeking to lead in their field, whether it's business, academia, technology, or the arts. The University of British Columbia (UBC) offers an in-depth tailored to help students master the art of effective communication, enabling them to succeed in the professional world. This public speaking program is designed not only to teach the fundamentals of communication but also to transform students into confident speakers who can inspire, persuade, and inform audiences of all sizes.

Who Should Attend?

This course is open to undergraduate and graduate students from all disciplines. Whether you're an aspiring business leader, a researcher, or a creative professional, public speaking is an essential skill. This program is particularly beneficial for:

• Students looking to boost confidence in delivering speeches or presentations
• Aspiring leaders who want to influence and inspire others in academic, professional, or community settings
• Anyone aiming to improve communication in public, whether for job interviews, conference talks, business pitches, or public engagements

By attending, you’ll acquire not just the technical skills but the confidence to address audiences with authority, style, and clarity.

Why Attend?

In today's competitive global landscape, the ability to effectively communicate your ideas is key to success. The benefits of this course include:

• Overcoming stage fright: Practical strategies to reduce anxiety and speak with confidence in any setting.
• Building a compelling style: Learn to develop a speaking persona that resonates with diverse audiences.
• Audience engagement: Master techniques that captivate and persuade listeners, making your message unforgettable.
• Leadership potential: Strong public speaking skills are foundational to leadership, helping you to motivate, influence, and command attention.

This course offers more than just theory—it gives you hands-on experience to grow into a speaker who can lead and inspire.

 Course Overview

The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical exercises and workshops. Students will practice in front of peers, receive constructive feedback, and develop their own unique speaking style. The course is structured into five comprehensive modules.

1. Foundations of Public Speaking

In this module, students will learn the core principles of communication. Topics include:

• Audience analysis: Understanding who you're speaking to and how to tailor your message accordingly.
• Speech structure: Crafting a clear, engaging, and logical flow for your speeches.
• Non-verbal communication: Using body language and vocal techniques to reinforce your message.

2. Crafting Compelling Content

Creating engaging content is a key aspect of public speaking. This module teaches students how to:

• Incorporate storytelling: Use narrative elements to make speeches relatable and memorable.
• Utilize rhetorical devices: Leverage persuasion techniques to strengthen arguments and hold audience attention.
• Integrate data and evidence: Support your message with solid research and facts.

3. Presentation Skills

This module focuses on developing practical presentation skills, including:

• Using visual aids and multimedia: Enhance speeches with effective use of slides, graphics, and other tools.
• Impromptu speaking: Practice delivering speeches on the spot to improve adaptability.
• Handling Q&A: Learn how to manage questions with confidence and poise.

4. Speaking for Different Contexts

Tailoring your speech to different situations is crucial. In this module, you'll practice:

• Academic presentations: Communicating complex ideas clearly and concisely.
• Business pitches: Selling ideas persuasively in professional settings.
• Motivational speeches: Inspiring audiences through storytelling and emotional appeal.

5. Advanced Techniques

The final module focuses on refining your skills for more specialized speaking situations:

• Persuasive speaking: Developing arguments that influence and drive action. - Cross-cultural communication: Understanding how to adapt your message for diverse, global audiences.
• Virtual platforms: Mastering the challenges of online presentations and digital communication tools.

 Professional Speaker Series

Throughout the course, you will have the opportunity to attend breakout sessions led by accomplished public speakers from a wide range of industries, including business, academia, and entertainment. We have partnered with the Keynote Speaker Agency Links to an external site. who will provide us expert insights on what it takes to deliver a powerful speech. 

These sessions provide direct insights from professionals with real-world experience in public speaking, offering personalized feedback and actionable tips on how to sharpen your speaking skills.

Industry Expert Panel

At the conclusion of the course, there will be a discussion panel led by the Motivational Speaker Agency Links to an external site. featuring experts in communication and leadership from leading organizations. This panel will explore how public speaking plays a critical role in professional success and offer guidance on how students can apply the skills they have learned to real-world situations. Panelists will also answer questions and engage in meaningful discussion about the evolving role of public speaking in today's digital and global world.

Assessment Methods

To help students track their progress and gain practical experience, the course will include various forms of assessment:

• In-class presentations: Students will deliver multiple speeches and receive feedback from both instructors and peers.
• Peer evaluations: Critiquing others' speeches will sharpen your own analytical skills and provide different perspectives.
• Final capstone speech: As a culmination of the course, each student will deliver a final presentation that incorporates the skills learned throughout the term.

We have partnered with teen life coach Sam Miller from the Parenting Teenagers Academy who will provide coaching for students who need help getting the most from the material.

Sign Up

Public Speaking for Future Leaders is an essential course for anyone looking to improve their communication abilities and leadership potential. With a combination of theoretical lessons, hands-on practice, and access to industry professionals, students will graduate with the tools and confidence needed to excel in any speaking environment. Whether you're preparing for a career in academia, corporate leadership, or entrepreneurship, mastering public speaking is a critical step toward future success.

Don't miss this opportunity to become a confident, compelling, and influential speaker—register today!