That said, giving a speech in front of strangers can also be empowering. Knowing that you can hold their attention is a real confidence booster. And this is especially true for those who have difficulties with speech or communication.
It is perhaps with this in mind that the National Stroke Association of Malaysia (Nasam) is organising “Coaching Stroke Champions on Public Speaking”, an upcoming course for stroke patients presented by renowned coach, actor-comedian and former radio personality Patrick Teoh.
The goal, Teoh explained, is to improve the quality of life of stroke survivors and their families, and to inform the public that, with proper rehabilitation, there is life after a stroke.
“Public speaking will benefit anybody, stroke survivors or otherwise. No matter what line you’re in, you need to be able to speak to people. It’s a communication skill that everyone should have,” the 76-year-old told FMT Lifestyle.
Topics that will be covered include overcoming stage fright, voice projection, and other crucial components. The course is free for stroke patients, who will become Nasam’s “ambassadors” and appear in interviews and talks to speak firsthand about their experiences.
On March 25, Nasam hosted an introductory session at its headquarters here to give participants a preview. An enthusiastic crowd of about 50 turned up.
Teoh started by reminding everyone that he is not a licensed speech therapist and, as such, would not be able to treat those with physical speech problems.
What he could do, however, was share his advice and experiences to help them become better public speakers.
One tip he gave was to use emotion to keep an audience enraptured. “It can be anything; happiness, sadness, or anger, for instance. But give yourself an emotion before you start speaking,” he said.
“Without emotion, within a few minutes, you will lose the attention of your audience. And that’s the worst thing that can happen to a speaker.”
Teoh also emphasised the importance of authenticity. “Language is important. But what people want to hear is what you have inside. Speak from the heart, speak with passion.
“If you’re more comfortable speaking in Chinese, use that. Mix languages if you have to. People need to speak to audiences as themselves.”
Many at the session expressed interest in attending Teoh’s course. Edmond Lim, a businessman and Nasam board member, said such an initiative could help patients overcome the “mental block” many of them face after going through a stroke.
“When you have a stroke, you feel like you have lost everything. It takes away your confidence, and it takes a lot of hard work and courage to bring it back.
“I believe that speaking well definitely helps build up your confidence,” said Lim, who had a stroke in 1997 at age 33.
Jordan Ong, an 18-year-old stroke survivor, shared that he is really keen to sign up for the course. “I think Patrick is a very interesting guy, he’s very motivational. I hope to learn how to give speeches in a way that can get the audience’s attention.”
Around 10 stroke champions signed up for the course following Teoh’s introductory session.
‘Coaching Stroke Champions on Public Speaking’ will be held at Nasam’s headquarters after Hari Raya Aidilfitri, with times and dates to be confirmed shortly.
For more information, visit Nasam’s website. Also follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
National Stroke Association of Malaysia
12, Jalan Bukit Menteri Selatan (7/2),
Seksyen 7,
Petaling Jaya, Selangor