Anyone can become a great speaker

My dad in the 1980s or 1990s. He passed away in February 2026 at the age of 90.

My late father was my first—and greatest—public speaking coach. As I've reflected on his life and the many lessons he taught me, I've come to realise how deeply they influenced my own speaking journey and continue to shape the way I teach through Soapbox today. I'm sharing these stories as a tribute to him—and because I believe they hold value for others too.

This week, I’m reflecting on a story my dad used to tell me—one that quietly shaped my beliefs, contributed to my own success, and now underpins the way I teach through Soapbox… without me even realising it at the time.

I’ve always loved this story. But last week, as I played back a recording of him telling it, something clicked.

When my dad was young, he was ‘voluntold’ to take part in a public speaking competition at school. His task was to memorise and recite a famous poem on stage.

My dad—shy, quiet, and soft-spoken—was horrified.

He had never spoken in public before, and he did not want to do it. Although he prepared thoroughly, his nerves were overwhelming. So much so, that the moment he finished, he ran out of the hall, jumped on his bike, and headed straight home.

What happened next always made him smile—every time he told it, right up until he was 90.

As the winners were announced, there was some confusion in the hall. Everyone was looking for him… because he had been awarded second place. And of course, he was nowhere to be seen.

I can still picture the way his smile would grow as he told this part—turning into a soft chuckle as he shared the final ending: The very next year, he returned to compete… and won first place!! (And yes—this time, he stayed to receive his award.)

I’m sharing this story because it reflects a core belief I start with at Soapbox:

Anyone can become a great speaker. 

You don’t need to be loud or naturally outgoing.

What you need is thoughtful preparation, a willingness to stretch yourself, and a belief that you can.

On a personal note, I was an extremely shy child—I would cling to my mum and hide behind her, even with relatives. They’d say they could barely hear me when I did speak. And yet, I would get up on stage and win speech competitions year after year.

I never fully understood that myself. But now, I think I do.

Somewhere along the way, my dad’s story must have taken root—quietly shaping what I believed was possible.

Maybe it was: if he could do it, so can I.

Maybe it was: I want to be just like him.

Maybe I just wanted to make him proud.

Most likely, it was all of the above.

If you're nervous about presenting, or you think it's just not "your thing", remember that great speakers aren't born that way.

Public speaking is a skill that can be learned and confidence can be built.

My dad's story—and mine—are a reminder that the people who seem like natural-born speakers often started exactly where you are now.