On February 11th, 2021, I participated in the “Presentation Skills Workshop” as part of the CSW65 Youth Preparation Series. Award-winning communications coach and international motivational speaker Jenni Prisk shared her advice for creating a compelling presentation. As a representative of the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences (RANS) preparing my own presentation this coming March, the knowledge shared by Jenni Prisk is invaluable.

Throughout the workshop, Jenni had participants engage in several exercises. The first exercise helps refine our “elevator pitch,” our brief (30 seconds or less), and persuasive marketing message. Next, Jenni asked us to visualize our coming presentation. Just like in the sports world, presenters can benefit from visualizing their own success. Then, Jenni advised us on how to “mobilize volunteers.” Knowing your mission, what drives you to accomplish that mission, and selling prospective volunteers on the benefits of participating in your organization can help drive engagement. Finally, Jenni shared the essential presentation skills:

Prisk Principle:

• Put Your Audience First

• Remember you are the Authority

• Inhale Confidence / Exhale Anxiety

• Share your Passion

• Keep in the Moment (Don’t second guess yourself)

On Monday, March 22nd, 2021, at 6 am MST, the Utah International Mountain Forum (UIMF), a coalition of student clubs at Utah Valley University, will host a parallel event titled “Mountain Women Empowerment Through the Inclusive Student-Engaged Learning Model.” During this event, I will have the opportunity to share my experience with the Student-Engaged Learning (SEL) model as an academic tool and as an instrument that can bring positive change to the world. The insights gained from Jenni Prisk’s workshop will significantly contribute to the steps the UIMF and I take in preparing our presentation.

Liam Dowling, President of Chess Club at UVU and UIMF member