Every great transformation begins with a challenge, and for the students participating in our Premier Accelerator Programs Stage 1 Hardware Hackathon, the challenge was evident. As parents and teachers observed their children tackle complex projects, one insight stood out: many students leaned heavily on their peers and mentors, struggling to take ownership of their presentations. The fear of public speaking and lack of confidence in addressing an audience held them back from truly showcasing their potential.
Recognizing this gap, parents and the 10xTC team took a proactive step. They decided to conduct a dedicated two-day workshop, in collaboration with Saga Enterprise (soft skills training company), to teach students the essential skills of public speaking and presentations. The idea was to see if they can present like a pro!
The Workshop: Building Confidence and Communication Skills
The workshop was designed as an interactive, hands-on learning experience, equipping students with tools and techniques to face audiences with confidence.
Day 1: Foundations of Effective Public Speaking
Students began by exploring the essential ingredients of a great speech: matter, manner, and emotions. They studied Molly Wright’s iconic speech to understand how a clear structure—with an engaging beginning, informative middle, and compelling end—can leave a lasting impression. Through activities like crafting introductions and boosting self-esteem, participants started building the foundation for confident public speaking.Day 2: Putting Lessons into Practice
On the second day, students stepped out of their comfort zones. They delivered presentations and speeches, applying what they had learned the previous day. Guided by an activity sheet on creating impactful PowerPoint slides, they also refined their visual storytelling skills. A key highlight of the day was a session on using music and tone to enhance emotional impact, broadening their understanding of audience engagement.
The Transformation: A Moment of Pride
The true impact of the workshop was revealed during the Stage 2 Software Hackathon. Parents who had seen their children hesitate and falter during the first event were pleasantly surprised by the transformation. The students, dressed as true professionals, showcased their projects with confidence, speaking clearly and articulately. They answered questions with poise and ease, demonstrating not just their knowledge but their readiness to lead. Their growth was remarkable—they no longer relied on others but took full ownership of their work and commanded the stage with pride.
For the parents, teachers, and mentors, this was more than just a workshop—it was a turning point. It showcased the power of equipping young minds with the right tools and opportunities, enabling them to unlock their full potential.
This journey of growth, from overcoming fears to owning the stage, is a testament to the importance of communication skills in shaping future leaders.
Check out the videos showing the key moments from the workshop and some highlights of the actual presentations.
