Celebrating a Successful Youth Leadership Course in Carmel Valley, California

After completing an eight week Youth Leadership Program in Carmel Valley during August and September, the teenagers who took the public speaking skills classes are not only communicating more effectively, but they have also gained more confidence in their speaking and leadership abilities.  Although the majority of the students began the course feeling uncertain and inhibited, those initial fears quickly dissipated as the teens became actively engaged during the highly interactive sessions.

Through participating in officer elections and filling club officer roles, the course participants learned about the principles of chairmanship and leadership.  The students also learned about the importance of speech organization and delivery techniques.  Lessons included how to use descriptive vocabulary, vocal variety, and body language such as gestures, eye contact, and facial expressions.  In addition to delivering prepared speeches, the students also had opportunities to develop their extemporaneous speaking skills.

The course participants fine tuned their listening skills and provided positive feedback as well as constructive criticism to their peers as they evaluated one another’s speeches.  The cooperative learning atmosphere provided a safe and fun environment in which the teenagers could learn, grow, and gain confidence through the opportunities to develop their communication and leadership skills.

The course participants will celebrate their achievements during a final showcase event on Friday, October 15th at 7:00 p.m. at Pat & Oscar’s in Carmel Valley.  After dinner the students will present persuasive charity speeches and then vote to determine which charity will receive a $50 donation from the course instructors Kathleen Behrens and Jimmy Thai.

The Youth Leadership Program was developed by Toastmasters International and is run by local Toastmasters who donate their time and talent to teach public speaking skills to students.  Jimmy Thai is a highly educated, award winning Toastmaster who competed in the World Championship of Public Speaking at the 2010 Toastmasters International Convention.  In addition to being a highly accomplished and experienced Educator, Kathleen Behrens is also a Toastmasters Area Governor and the President of Hi Fi Speakers, a Toastmasters club which meets in Carmel Valley.

Kathleen has created Teen Speaking Skills to combine her love of teaching teenagers with her passion for personal growth and public speaking.  Creating confident communicators is the mission of Teen Speaking Skills.  Confidence is the key to helping teenagers communicate effectively and achieve their goals and dreams.  The next Teen Speaking Skills class is scheduled to begin on Saturday, November 6th.  Give your child the gift that will truly last a lifetime!