Youth Talk: Handing over the mic
A dynamic method inspired by the renowned TED Talks unleashes the inner speaker of youth. Giving young people the opportunity to raise their voices, be visible in front of a wider audience and inspire other young people to stand up for their needs and rights.
Level of participation
Information
Voicing Opinions
Duration of participation process
Preparation: At least 1 month
Implementation: At least 2 months
Follow-up: A couple of days for analysis and documentation
Target group size
< 25 people
Costs
$$
Human resources needed
At least two persons for preparation, moderation and documentation
The method: what is it, when to use it and what outcome to expect
A TED Talk-style presentation is a powerful method for engaging young people in sharing their ideas, experiences, and perspectives with a wider audience. Modelled after the renowned TED Talks, this method allows youth to deliver compelling, concise talks on topics they are passionate about.
Use this method to provide a platform for young people to express their thoughts and experiences, raise awareness about important issues, and inspire others. It is a great method for centring youth voices and promoting meaningful dialogue. This method empowers young people to develop their communication skills, build confidence, and share their perspectives on important topics.
Giving young people a stage and promoting their performances via various media can have a huge impact. The performing youths can become important role models and, in line with the peer-to-peer approach, inspire other young people to raise their voices and stand up for their needs and rights.
The process: how to conduct it in an in-person setting or online using a PC/laptop with video option
1. Identify Youth Speakers: Identify and invite young speakers together with youth
2. Set Up a Virtual Platform or a venue: Use a video conferencing tool or a dedicated platform for the event. Or choose a suitable venue with audiovisual equipment and seating for the audience.
3. Rehearsals and Coaching: Schedule (virtual) rehearsals and provide coaching for speakers in presenting and talking to a (bigger) audience. The coaching period depends on the experience of the speaker.
4. Event Promotion: Promote the (online) event through flyers, local networks, social media, email, and relevant channels.
5. Event Logistics: Set up the venue, coordinate speakers, and manage the event program.
6. Hosting the Event: Host the event with introductions, talks, and audience interaction.
7. Documentation: Capture the event through photography and video recording for documentation and sharing.
8. Outreach: Promote the documented performance through social media, schools, universities, religious or cultural institutions, local authorities, etc. and use it as learning material to encourage dialogue on a specific topic.
Blended participation
Combine online and in-person components by hosting the event in a hybrid format. Allow speakers and some participants to join virtually while maintaining an in-person audience. This approach can expand the reach of youth talks and accommodate diverse participation preferences.
Digital communication
Communication platform for the event: Teams, Zoom, Webex
Mural or Miro Boards are useful tools to document the process, idea collection and results.
Good to know
- Offer support, public speaking and presentation training to help young speakers build confidence.
- Encourage speakers to choose topics they are passionate about to ensure authenticity.
- Pay attention to diversity and empower those who are not yet well practised in giving speeches and who are rarely given a stage.
- Create a safe and inclusive space for speakers to share their stories and ideas.
- Foster dialogue and discussion after the talks to maximize the impact of the event.
- Share the recorded talks widely to amplify youth voices beyond the event.