This project focuses on addressing the pervasive issue of presentation anxiety, particularly among students, stemming from comparison-driven insecurities, external validation, and lack of confidence. By designing interactive workshops and toolkits, the initiative equips participants with practical strategies to manage anxiety and improve public speaking skills.

Problem Solved

• Identified root causes of presentation anxiety such as stage fright, fear of judgment, and over-preparation.

• Addressed the reliance on external validation and societal pressures, which hinder authentic self-expression and confidence.

• Provided a structured pathway to shift focus from performance-based self-worth to growth-oriented presentation skills.

Process

1. Research and Insights:

   • Conducted primary and secondary research to understand the impact of self-esteem, cultural expectations, and over-reliance on AI tools.

   • Identified psychological barriers, including fear of judgment and performance anxiety, using methods like “Six Thinking Hats” and reflective exercises.

2. Workshop Design:

   • Developed workshops with activities like:

     • Icebreakers (e.g., "Guess Who?" and "Validation Line Game") to reduce initial anxiety.

     • Group challenges (e.g., “Improv Challenge”) for creativity and spontaneity.

     • Reflection and feedback sessions using techniques like “Glow and Grow.”

   • Created a 30-minute structured flow focusing on awareness, ideation, and practical application.

3. Toolkit Development:

   • Designed creative tools like:

     • Persona Cards to enhance confidence through role-playing.

     • Reframe Deck for cognitive restructuring of fears.

     • Power Pose Circuit for confident body language practice.

     • Interactive engagement cards for audience rapport.

4. Implementation and Iteration:

   • Executed workshops with real-time feedback to refine strategies and improve participation.

   • Incorporated solutions like pre-recorded pitches, mood boards, and storyboards to cater to diverse participant needs.

WORKSHOP 1 -

WORKSHOP 2-

Impact Created

• Participant Outcomes:

  • Enhanced confidence and reduced stage fright through practical exercises and personalized feedback.

  • Improved presentation clarity, engagement, and spontaneity.

  • Fostered a supportive environment for peer collaboration and growth.

• Broader Impact:

  • Encouraged self-reflection and resilience, enabling students to value personal growth over external judgment.

  • Introduced creative methods to reduce reliance on traditional presentation styles and tools.

Key Learnings

• Emphasized the importance of a well-structured and balanced workshop flow to maintain engagement.

• Highlighted the need to focus on both identifying anxieties and providing actionable solutions.

• Demonstrated the value of iterative design and participant-driven feedback in enhancing workshop effectiveness.

Confidence-Building Toolkit

A practical resource to overcome presentation anxiety, this toolkit combines psychological techniques, interactive exercises, and actionable strategies. It addresses challenges like stage fright and fear of judgment while fostering confidence and authentic communication.

Highlights:

• Visualization & Grounding: Simulated scenarios and breathing exercises to reduce anxiety.

• Interactive Activities: Improv games, role-playing, and engagement cards to boost creativity.

• Feedback & Practice: Peer reviews and structured micro-presentations for continuous improvement.

Flexible and adaptable, the toolkit empowers individuals to transform anxiety into assurance, building confident, impactful presenters.