Communication for Change – Workshop at SH College

When I arrived at Sacred Heart College  in Thevara on the day of the session, I was met by a sea of young faces that were eager, nervous, and full of promise. This reminded me of the reasons why I like this profession. I have always had a strong interest in communication, both as a skill and as a powerful force that shapes identities, interpersonal relationships, and careers. When I was offered the opportunity to lead a training on effective communication, I knew it had to go beyond the basics.

The workshop was designed specifically for college students preparing to enter the workforce. I wanted them to feel safe, communicate clearly, and establish a strong connection in high-pressure settings like job interviews. I didn't just want to teach them how to talk; I wanted to help them express themselves in a genuine way.

First impressions matter, which is a simple yet important fact that we began with. Your biggest advantages in the competitive job market are usually your speaking and listening abilities. The students and I looked into this through a variety of interactive exercises, role-plays, and mock interviews. We discussed introducing yourself, coming up with clever answers, managing your anxiety, and, most importantly, being confident in your voice.

Communication goes beyond just exchanging words. It's about truly listening with empathy, picking up on those subtle non-verbal signals, and being emotionally attuned to one another. Engaging in a conversation means immersing ourselves fully, fostering a genuine connection that makes both parties feel heard and valued. As we worked through eye contact, tone modulation, and posture, I could see transformation taking place, quiet students volunteering, hesitant voices becoming steady, and nervous smiles turning confident.

One of the highlights was the mock interview session. Watching students step into the “interviewee” role with courage and vulnerability was truly inspiring. We shared laughter, learned from our mistakes, and celebrated every small win. The room was filled with not just learning, but growth.

For me, the best part of the day was hearing the kids say, "I didn't think I could do it, but now I can." In addition to changing skill sets, true education also reshapes attitudes.

I would like to thank all of the participants in my class at Sacred Heart College for their openness, excitement, and desire to learn. After attending our workshop, I hope you continue to speak up, communicate clearly, and embrace your purpose.

Because when you speak confidently, people listen!