Scholars strengthen communication and leadership skills for the workplace
Posted: 30 September 2025
Two groups of dedicated Australia Awards scholars recently completed online training programs designed to sharpen their communication and leadership capabilities as they prepare to transition from their academic life to developing professional careers. The two sessions (Professional Communication and Presentation Skills and Communication Strategies for Becoming an Inspiring Leader) were crafted to empower scholars to develop the confidence and tools needed to thrive in the workplace, where effective communication is key to success.
In the Professional Communication and Presentation Skills session, scholars explored the foundations of impactful public speaking. Through interactive sessions, they honed essential techniques such as body language, voice modulation, facial expression and word choice. Participants identified their personal presentation styles, built practical toolkits to enhance delivery, and developed strategies for self-assessment and continuous improvement.
Scholars attending the ‘Professional Communication and Presentation Skills’ training session.
One scholar shared that they now feel more confident navigating difficult or emotionally charged conversations. Another highlighted the value of discovering their authentic presentation style and learning how to use body language effectively.
By the end of the course, participants reported a noticeable boost in their ability to communicate ideas clearly and persuasively—skills that will serve them well in interviews, meetings and collaborative environments.
Meanwhile, a second group of scholars completed the Communication Strategies for Becoming an Inspiring Leader training. This leadership-focused program encouraged participants to reflect on their personal leadership identities and adopt the communication habits of effective, inspiring leaders.
Scholars attending the ‘Communication Strategies for Becoming an Inspiring Leader’ training session.
The course emphasised listening actively and empathetically, managing challenging conversations with professionalism, and structuring messages for clarity and impact. Scholars also practiced using voice, posture and presence to project confidence and authority. A highlight of the training was the creation of personal leadership manifestos, grounded in each participant’s values and lived experiences.
Bangladeshi scholar Sokina Aktar said, “This training session was truly engaging and enriching. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and learnt several positive expressions that will genuinely support my growth as an influential leader.”
Bangladeshi scholar Sokina Aktar.
Bhutanese scholar Dawa Tamang added, “The presenter not only made these sessions enjoyable but also captivated my attention throughout the two days and invigorated us with unwavering positivity. Every story he shared carried a meaningful lesson. Positivity, indeed, is infectious.”
Bhutanese scholar Dawa Tamang.
These trainings mark a significant milestone in the scholars’ journey, bridging the gap between academic achievement and professional readiness. With sharpened communication skills and a clearer sense of their leadership potential, these scholars are now better equipped to make meaningful contributions in their chosen fields.
As they step into the next chapter of their careers, they carry with them not just newfound knowledge but the confidence to lead, connect and inspire.