The JCI UK Public Speaking Academy returned for its third year over the weekend of 14/15 May.  I started the academy with former National President, Solveig Malvik in 2014 and I could not be prouder of what has come about as a result.  We've had 30 brilliant graduates in the UK, exported the academy to Denmark and had three JCI European public speaking finalists and two winners.

Voice coach Cathleen McCarron teaches delegates the importance of using the whole body to control breath and voice

At the academy this year I was joined by past JCI UK Public Speaking Champion and European finalist, Patrick McCrae, who did a brilliant job of providing invaluable feedback and encouragement to the delegates.  Over the course of the weekend, both Patrick and I were blown away by the courage, commitment and improvement the delegates showed and were both quite emotional when it came to watching the phenomenal final speeches.  Each and every participant had taken their public speaking skills not just to the next level, but several levels higher.  If the speeches we saw are anything to go by, it's going to be a fantastic competition at the National Convention in November.

Participants putting new skills into practice

Some of the feedback from delegates was as follows:

"Public speaking was a very insightful, informative training for me.  I learnt a lot and will take away all the tips and pointers and apply them in my every day speeches".  Mary Mambwa, JCI Greenwich

"Loved the opportunity to develop my skills and meet new people in a great, safe environment".  Bev Mackfall, JCI Barnsley

"As someone who is new to public speaking, it has been an invaluable weekend where I have been able to face fears.  It has given me confidence to learn and develop skills further".  Anne Homer, JCI Sheffield.

Graduates and trainers of the 2016 JCI UK Public Speaking Academy