Empowering young people to speak out
Posted on 27th July 2024 at 07:10
Undoubtedly, we stand at the brink of a revolution led by the younger generation. These children and teenagers are notably more vocal and socially conscious than any previous generations.
However, the question remains: are we truly heeding their voices? What valuable insights can we gain from Generation Z, and in turn, what wisdom can they absorb from older generations? It’s disheartening to witness older generations stifling the voices of Gen Z, as they indeed possess invaluable knowledge and experiences.
They hold a wealth of information about various subjects, such as technology, AI, the unique challenges of growing up in the 2020s with the backdrop of a pandemic and their views on LGBTQ rights. In essence, they possess a powerful voice, so how can we empower them to amplify it?
I had the privilege of working with young people in Saudi Arabia last year, and with the country’s ambitious 2030 vision in motion, it’s evident that these young minds have the potential to be true game-changers. However, for this transformation to be successful, they must carry everyone along on this journey, touching the hearts and minds of those who may not yet share their vision. This inclusiveness is what progress is all about.
In the leadership programme I delivered I challenged each young adult to choose a topic they were passionate about and craft a keynote speech around it. I urged them to incorporate a call to action, something their audience could actively pursue after hearing their speech. Their topics ranged from climate change to women’s rights, tourism, and education, all intricately linked to the country’s 2030 vision. Their speeches were both powerful and deeply moving.
I heard about what life was like before women were allowed to drive or own a bank account.
I heard one young man talk about lack of entertainment pre 2018. I sat and listened respectfully understanding the culture and the background without passing judgement.
This experience got me thinking about how we can provide a platform for young individuals to express their thoughts and ideas. As someone deeply involved in schools, colleges, and youth development through the work I do in interactive theatre, I believe we are not equipping young people with the necessary tools to speak effectively. Yes, they can produce TikTok videos, but these often get lost in the endless scroll of content. How about a compelling speech? A well-delivered speech can leave a lasting impact.
As a member of the PSA, I hold great affection for the organisation, but we need more younger members. I strongly believe we should involve more young people in the art of public speaking, we are missing a crucial opportunity to future-proof our messages and the world of public speaking itself. We are also missing out on how to engage younger audiences, who don’t want to listen to lengthy speeches 30 mins maximum should be enough to engage the Tiktok generation.
So what can we do to give younger people a platform to speak?
Well we can pass on our experience as speakers. We can help them craft a good keynote whilst listening to what they know about engaging younger audiences. We can help them tell the story.
Coaching teenagers on giving a keynote involves developing their public speaking skills and boosting their confidence. Here are some steps to help you coach them:
1. Choose a Relevant Topic: Select a topic that the teenager is passionate about and has some expertise in. This will make the speech more engaging and authentic. Don’t pass judgement or offer advice from your perspective on a relevant topic. They know their topic, they know who they are talking to and what will bore or excite their generation.
2. Research and Content Development: Encourage them to research the topic thoroughly and create a well-structured outline with a compelling introduction- it might be a bold statement, an action, a move or just silence.
Let them tell the main points of the story then help them craft it for the best effect.
Get them to conclude with something that will make people think about the future.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice: Rehearsal is key. Have them practice their speech multiple times to build confidence and refine their delivery. Practice is important but so is authenticity. Young people don’t like over the top sales pitches, they want to tell a story that hooks people in.
4. Body Language and Gestures: Teach them about body language, use of the stage,
eye contact, and gestures that convey confidence and engagement.
5. Vocal Skills: Work on their voice modulation, pitch, pace, and volume to keep the audience’s attention. They may want to sing, do characters, make the voice higher or lower to create intensity.
6. Overcoming Nervousness: Help them manage stage fright and anxiety through relaxation techniques and breathing exercises.
7. Visual Aids: If they plan to use visual aids, guide them on creating simple visuals.
8. Engaging the Audience: Encourage them to interact with the audience through questions, anecdotes, or relatable stories.
9. Handling Questions: Practice responding to potential questions from the audience to boost their confidence in Q&A sessions.
10. Timing: Ensure the speech fits within the allotted time, avoiding rushing or running over.
11. Recording and Feedback: Record practice sessions and provide constructive feedback to help them improve.
12. Support and Encouragement: Be supportive and offer encouragement throughout the coaching process.
13. Peer Review: Consider having them present to a small group of peers for constructive feedback.
14. Rehearse in the Venue: If possible, practice at the actual venue to get comfortable with the space.
15. Positive Visualisation- Encourage them to visualise themselves delivering a successful keynote.
A technique for preparing to speak
Imagine yourself 1 min before your speech and feel it in your body
Imagine half way through the speech when the audience is sitting attentively. How do you feel? What the expression on your face?
Imagine you finished your speech- what are people saying about you?
Make the scene bigger and imagine you’ve been talent spotted for your compelling speech- how will you feel?
Remember that coaching young people may require patience and flexibility. Tailor your approach to their individual needs and comfort levels.
Lise Kaye-Bell is CEO of Soundproofbox, an organisation offering training to workplaces and schools on the topic of domestic abuse.
Contact info@soundproofbox.org
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