The only way you can overcome fear of public speaking is by going ahead and speaking. Start by looking for new ways to gain exposure and expand your network. This can be achieved if you get involved in extracurricular activities at school like debates, music dance and drum, sports and games. Public speaking isn’t an inborn talent but rather a skill which can be acquired by anyone. Prepare by practicing. Visualize yourself delivering an inspiring speech and rehearse the speech in your mind to create an imaginary account which will increase your confidence for the actual event. This will keep you in a relaxed mode.

Confident speakers develop their expertise by knowing their topic thoroughly. Prepare to present your arguments by absorbing as much relevant knowledge as possible. If you’re to participate in school debates or quizzes, read, and memorize key concepts. Accumulate interesting facts, stories, quotes and examples. These will boost your confidence because you’ll have richer and more interesting content to present. Boldness eliminates obstacles in your speech and gives you presence.  Start your talk with boldness to appear more interesting. The first impression is critical.

Learn from other public speakers by attending live events to emulate your favourites. Observe how they use their hands to add emphasis to key points. Note how they raise and lower their voice to keep you focused on their message and study their movements and delivery style to nourish off their confidence. Brilliant public speakers use words economically to make an impact. Remove all unnecessary fillers and respect audience’s time. Public speaking will allow you to take your career to an entirely new level, granting you access to people and places you never had before. Triumph over your public speaking fear and celebrate any milestone achieved by going ahead to rock the stage. You will be surprised to learn that you are one of the public speaking gurus in your vicinity.

YOU DEBATE

Steven Muhumuza, university student: 

One way to overcome your timidity is through practice. Start from the people you live with; tell them a story, have a discussion with your friends and classmates. Besides, believe in yourself and start embracing public speaking through debates, seminars and conferences,.

Maureen Tony, Senior Six vacationist:

Public speaking skills are gained through participation school activities. Most activities are designed to help students discover their talents, acquire essential skills and knowledge. It may help to join clubs like debating, English,and interact clubs.

Mary Ingabire, Senior Six vacationist:  

Consider school debating and other interactive activities, for instance being a prefect. Remember the first step in everything is getting acquainted. Such activities open your mind to new ideas, and enable you to express yourself.

Belinda Nikuzwe, student:

Through public speaking, you will learn how to give out your ideas with ease. I believe the first step towards public speaking is to socialise more often with your fellow students. Learn to speak out in a group, class or during your free time.