Book review and public speaking with the Youth Commission of GKJ Wonosari

Public speaking comes naturally to some but poses a significant challenge for others. However, it is a skill that can be trained and developed through learning the fundamentals, methods, and techniques of effective communication. For young people actively involved in church services, social organizations, or presentations, mastering public speaking is essential.

Public speaking can be learned through various resources, including printed books and e-books that offer methods and tips for skill development. Among these is Let's Speak: Simple Tips for Public Speaking, written by Ninda Nindiani, a professional event host. To meet the growing interest in this skill, Stube HEMAT Yogyakarta organized a book review and public speaking discussion titled  I Exist,  I Speak Out, in partnership with the Youth Commission of the Javanese Christian Church (GKJ) Wonosari, Gunungkidul Regency (March 15, 2025). The event was attended by twenty youths, who participated in both the book review and a public speaking workshop led by Trustha Rembaka, S.Th.

During the book review, Trustha highlighted the contents of the first edition published by ANDI Yogyakarta in 2024, spanning 182 pages plus a 10-page introduction. Chapters 1–10 cover essential topics such as understanding public speaking, self-preparation, managing nervousness, vocal exercises, gestures, visual aids, media usage, and effective openings and closings, including interactive games to energize events. Chapters 11–17 explore various roles like moderators, masters of ceremonies, and ice breakers, as well as event formats such as seminars, vlogs, television presenting, radio, and podcasts. It also includes insights into supporting equipment like microphones.

The book offers several intriguing features, starting with its white background cover, colorful fonts, and eye-catching illustrations. It provides practical and realistic public speaking tips based on the author’s personal experiences, presented through engaging writing that incorporates diverse fonts, vibrant color combinations, illustrations, user avatars, and testimonials. Fully grasping the book requires time, as each section needs to be thoroughly understood and practiced. However, there is a mismatch between the table of contents and the corresponding pages. Like other publications on the topic, this book faces competition from various media covering similar themes.

The next stage involved participants practicing public speaking within a set duration. They learned techniques to overcome nervousness, establish connection through eye contact, and minimize distracting words, gestures, or movements. Many participants admitted that speaking in front of an audience was challenging, citing issues such as lack of confidence, forgetting prepared material due to nervousness, and uncertainty about proper body positioning. Some expressed hope for further training sessions to continue honing their skills.

Youth, it’s time to break through self-doubt and build confidence! Public speaking is an achievable skill, thanks to the wealth of learning resources available to you. Remember the powerful message: I Exist, I Speak Out! Seize the opportunity to become a public speaker and make a meaningful impact on those around you. *