The Gavel Club of University of Colombo concluded its highly anticipated series of workshops, Speak Out 3.0 organized for the third time, to nurture the public speaking skills of undergraduates. As a participant in this enriching experience, I can certify its significant impact on personal confidence and communication skills.
From December 4th to December 15th, 2023, eager participants gathered virtually for eight sessions under the theme “Come Get Your Voice Out”. Open to all undergraduates passionate about honing their speaking prowess, Speak Out 3.0 was aimed to not only enhance speaking skills but also to boost confidence, and foster personal growth and new friendships.
Each session, designed to focus on every minute detail and facilitated by experienced mentors, provided a safe and supportive environment for participants to explore and sharpen their speaking abilities. Beginning promptly at 7.30 p.m., the sessions were strategically timed to allow participants to unwind after their daily commitments, making it easier to engage wholeheartedly.
The inaugural session set the tone by introducing participants to the essence of Speak Out, encouraging everyone to share their interests and talents. Throughout the series, a ‘Word of the Day’ challenged us to expand our vocabulary and include newfound expressions in our speeches. Moreover, interactive activities such as Round-Robin sessions and impromptu speech exercises fostered creativity and spontaneity, crucial skills for effective public speaking.
Each session delved into various themes and techniques essential for mastering the art of public speaking. From discussing personal ambitions and overcoming hardships to delving into phonetics and mastering impromptu speeches, Speak Out 3.0 provided a comprehensive guide, tailored to the needs of aspiring speakers.
Throughout the sessions, critical elements such as speech planning, pronunciation, and the art of impromptu speaking were highlighted through informative discussions and practical exercises. Participants gained valuable insights into structuring compelling speeches, minimizing filler words, and delivering impactful presentations with active stage presence. Also, participants were introduced to the key roles of a Gavel Educational Meeting, namely, the Toastmaster of the Day, Grammarian, Ah Counter, Timer, General Evaluator, Table Topics master, Round-Robin master, and Table Topic evaluators, marking the importance of constructive criticism in refining speaking abilities. By embracing feedback as a booster for growth, participants learned to identify areas for improvement and strive for continuous progress in their public speaking journey.
As Speak Out 3.0 drew close to its eighth session and last session, participants were empowered to share their voices with confidence as the workshop catalyzed equipping participants with the skills and self-assurance needed to weave their ideas effectively in any setting. Reflecting on my own experience, I’m grateful for the invaluable lessons learned from conquering stage fright to perfecting speech, and delivery and the supportive community met throughout the Speak Out 3.0 workshop as it significantly elevated my speaking skills and cultivated a new sense of confidence in effective communication within myself. The mark made by the Speak Out 3.0 series on all the participants surely will speak out loud in their public speaking journey and it stands as a testament to the Gavel Club of University of Colombo’s commitment to nurturing the talents and aspirations of students.
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