Stand Up and Speak had a huge impact on my confidence and communication skills growing up. I was in the program for six years, and it genuinely helped shape how I speak, present myself, and connect with others today. Compared to other experiences in my life, it is one of the few that has had a lasting effect both personally and academically. Some of my fondest memories are the supportive environment, the friendships, and the feeling of becoming more confident each year, every time I stepped up to speak.
(5) Unique value
To me, the essence of Stand Up and Speak is growth through encouragement. It creates an environment where people are pushed outside of their comfort zones, but always in a supportive and welcoming way. What makes the program special is that it is about much more than public speaking. It builds confidence, communication skills, leadership, and the ability to express yourself authentically. Over the six years I was involved, I saw how much the program genuinely cared about each student’s development and individuality. Unlike many other programs, it felt personal and uplifting, and it created a community where people wanted to support each other and succeed together.
(5) Program quality and activities
One of the most valuable parts of the program for me was impromptu speaking. At first, it was definitely outside of my comfort zone because you had to think quickly, stay calm under pressure, and speak confidently without much preparation. Over time, though, it became one of the activities I enjoyed the most because I could really see my growth. It taught me how to organize my thoughts quickly and communicate more naturally and confidently. Those skills have helped me far beyond the program, especially in school, presentations, interviews, and everyday conversations. The supportive atmosphere also made challenges feel exciting rather than intimidating.
(5) Social dynamics and experience
One of the nicest parts of my experience with Stand Up and Speak is the lasting relationships that came from it. Even years later, I am still very much in touch with the founder, and she is genuinely one of the sweetest and most supportive people I have met. The program created such a welcoming and encouraging environment that it was easy to build meaningful connections with both staff and other students. Spending years growing, learning, and stepping outside our comfort zones together naturally created strong bonds and a real sense of community that stayed with me long after the program ended.
(5) Skills and growth
Participating in Stand Up and Speak played a huge role in shaping both my personal and professional development. Over the years, the program helped me become far more confident in myself and in the way I communicate with others. I learned how to speak clearly, think on the spot, present ideas effectively, and stay composed under pressure, especially through activities like impromptu speaking. Beyond public speaking itself, the program also taught me confidence, leadership, and the importance of encouraging others. These are all skills and values I still use every day in school, interviews, presentations, and professional settings.
(5) Reflections and advice
My biggest piece of advice to current or future participants would be to fully embrace every opportunity, even the ones that feel uncomfortable at first. Some of the moments that pushed me the most ended up helping me grow the most. I would also tell them not to be afraid of making mistakes, because that is such an important part of becoming more confident. If I could relive my experience, I would do a lot of the same things because the program gave me so many positive memories and valuable skills. One lesson I would pass on is that confidence is something you build over time by continuing to put yourself out there.
As the Principal of Stand Up and Speak, I’ve seen how our program helps students grow in confidence, communication, and leadership. What makes it truly special is witnessing each student’s transfo...
Stand Up and Speak is a fantastic program, and our son Arjun has had a great experience. He started off 3 years ago as a hesitant speaker and now thoroughly enjoys and excels at public speaking, thank...
My daughter has been a part of Stand Up and Speak for the more than five years, and her experience has truly been beyond my expectations.
When she first started, she was a quiet, shy girl. Now, I wat...
