International Training on Writing and Delivering Speeches and Presentations with Impact
Enhance Your Public Speaking and Presentation Skills for Leadership and Advocacy
Course Background
In today’s interconnected world, professionals working in policy, governance, environmental sustainability, and development must do more than design sound strategies—they must communicate them effectively. Whether advocating for new legislation, presenting research findings, or addressing communities and international audiences, the ability to deliver impactful speeches and presentations is essential for driving change.
Yet, many brilliant ideas fail to inspire action simply because they are poorly communicated. Technical language, unclear structure, and low-confidence delivery often reduce the power of a message. This is particularly true in high-stakes spaces such as climate diplomacy, parliamentary hearings, media engagements, and multilateral forums—where words can influence public opinion, funding, or political will.
Recognizing this gap, ECAS developed this course to build communication confidence and clarity for emerging and established leaders across Africa. The course bridges the art of storytelling with the science of effective public speaking, tailored for environmental and policy professionals.
Course Objectives
Write clear, persuasive, and structured speeches tailored to specific audiences and occasions.Deliver presentations and speeches with confidence, authority, and authenticity.Use storytelling, data, and emotion to strengthen audience engagement.Apply body language, vocal techniques, and visual aids effectively.Adapt tone, language, and style for different settings—formal, informal, local, or international.Manage nerves, handle tough questions, and respond to feedback gracefully.What You Will Learn
Structure speeches and presentations using proven frameworks (e.g., AIDA, PREP, storytelling arcs).Write impactful introductions, memorable closings, and strong calls to action.Use rhetorical devices (repetition, metaphor, contrast) to enhance messaging.Master delivery techniques including posture, gesture, voice modulation, and pace.Design visually engaging slides that support—not distract from—your message.Deliver speeches in high-stakes or high-pressure environments.Training Modules
The Power of Public Speaking in Leadership and Advocacy – Why strong communication is essential for leadership and policy influence.Crafting Clear and Compelling Messages – Organizing your ideas for clarity and impact.Writing Speeches for Different Audiences and Settings – Adapting your writing for various settings (community forums, parliamentary addresses, international conferences).Mastering Verbal and Nonverbal Delivery Skills – Enhancing vocal presence and body language.Designing and Delivering Visual Presentations – Principles of visual design and integration with speech delivery.Handling Questions, Criticism, and Public Interactions – Responding to feedback and managing Q&A sessions effectively.Practical Exercises and Final Presentations – Writing and delivering a full speech, followed by peer and trainer feedback.Target Participants
This course is designed for professionals in environmental governance, policy advocacy, public administration, civil society, and sustainable development. It is ideal for government officials, climate negotiators, policy advisors, development practitioners, NGO leaders, and researchers who are required to speak in public settings.
