What is
Speakers' School?
Created in 2008, New Directions Speakers School is a unique public speaking, or speaking in public program which teaches public speaking and leadership and advocacy skills through raising awareness of social justice issues.
This free 14 week course runs twice a year teaching public speaking and leadership skills in an environment of peer support and within the context of education in social justice issues; guest speakers present on issues relating to disability, poverty, and unemployment.
2 - 14 Week
Courses per year
200+
Successful graduates
16
Community Partners
15
Years serving the community
What we do.
Craft and Deliver Speeches
The training consists of exercises focusing on effective communication, public speaking and group facilitation combined with substantive lectures on social justice issues and other related topics presented by community trainers. Guest speakers are invited to present on issues relating to disability, poverty and unemployment.
Advocate for Purpose
The school’s main purpose is to develop public speaking and leadership skills and to raise awareness of social justice issues. The school is open to anyone who is an injured worker, living in poverty, or facing other economic challenges. The school attempts to address and overcome barriers to participation and promotes an atmosphere of peer support and mutual aid.
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Continued Learning
Speakers’ School coordinates and facilitates monthly meetings with the alumni who wish to continue developing their skills and broadening their knowledge once they have graduated from the school.
Our Partners
New Directions Speakers' School is grateful to be supported by many indivdiuals and organizations in multiple capacities.
Who is eligible to apply?
People facing any of these types of challenges: low income, unemployed, injured workers, living in poverty, disadvantaged, person with mental health, addictions issues, dealing with discrimination, dealing with racism, economically or socially challenged.
If you are interested to know more about us and what we do as well as to find out when the next class will be starting simply click the button below.
Meet some of our AMAZING graduates.
Since 2008 approximately 200 students have successfully completed the program. Graduates have spoken on a variety of relevant social justice issues including discrimination, living with HIV, the sex trade, financial hardships faced by widows, Aboriginal accomplishments, faith, poverty, and addiction.
