No one should feel like they don’t deserve to be heard or that what they have to say doesn’t matter.
The real reason so many people grow up with a fear of public speaking isn’t because they don’t have ideas; they were just never taught how to share them. Public speaking education is not normally taught in schools (unless you’re actively in an extracurricular that prioritizes it), and as a result, a lot of people’s first introductions to public speaking are in high-stakes environments such as a university thesis or job presentation. Our job is to close that gap. When people are taught how to communicate effectively (yes, communication is a skill, not a talent), their abilities to lead, influence, and create change are limitless.
Research shows that effective communication is one of the strongest predictors of long-term success — yet most students receive little to no formal training in public speaking or self-expression. The data below highlights why programs like VoiceToLead matter.
of people say public speaking is their #1 fear — even above death.
Source: Chapman University Survey of American Fears, 2023of jobs today require communication, collaboration, and presentation skills.
Source: National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 2024Students who participate in speech and debate are twice as likely to report higher confidence and leadership ability.
Source: NSDA Impact Report, 2023of educators agree communication skills should be taught earlier in schools.
Source: EdWeek Research Center, 2022We empower students to see their voices as tools for action — helping them build courage, presence, and self-belief.
Through mentorship and practice, we help young speakers transform fear into self-assurance and authenticity.
Our workshops create a supportive environment where students grow together — learning from peers and mentors alike.
Join us in empowering young voices across our community.
Become a Mentor