Collaboration between MIP Academy and Kosmonita Radio: Empowering Youth through Public Speaking

The MIP Academy Class is a skill-building program specifically designed for participants of the MCC Internship Program. Held on September 16, 2025, in the 3rd-floor classroom of the Malang Creative Center, the event was a collaborative effort with Kosmonita Radio. The program featured Arya P. Wardhana, a professional announcer and producer from Kosmonita Radio, as the speaker. He shared effective public speaking techniques and tips for capturing and maintaining an audience’s attention. The program, chaired by Ahmad Fariduddin, aims to significantly develop the participants’ public speaking proficiency.

Mr. Wardhana shared his personal experiences, emphasizing how public speaking can enhance an individual’s communication skills and boost their self-confidence. He explained that nervousness often stems from a fear of failure. Furthermore, he noted that direct eye contact with the audience can sometimes cause speakers to lose focus. To counteract this, he advised speakers to focus their gaze on the audience’s foreheads. This technique allows for the appearance of direct eye contact without the distraction, helping speakers stay focused on their content. “To avoid all that, don’t look at the eye area, from the eyebrows to the eyes. You can look at their foreheads,” he explained.

He also underscored the critical importance of public speaking as a skill that participants will need throughout their careers. This ability empowers them to articulate their ideas confidently in both academic and professional settings. He cited examples such as convincing lecturers, succeeding in job interviews, and giving classroom presentations.

The class offered substantial benefits by providing more than just theoretical knowledge. Participants also gained practical, actionable techniques to help them speak effectively in front of a crowd. As one participant, Ria, put it, “It’s not just about explaining public speaking in general, but also about describing the methods, their pros and cons, and how to control our nervousness.”

The collaborative program, successfully led by Achmad Fariduddin, concluded on a high note. The hope is that this experience will empower participants to overcome their fear of public speaking. As Fariduddin stated, “Hopefully, all participants will no longer be afraid to speak up or share their opinions.”