A Message From Our Founder

Lori-Ann Jakel
Founder, Public Speaking Maven
The greatest soft skill you will ever learn in life is the ability to communicate effectively. This life long skill will help with conversations, debating, interviews, presentations, relationships, careers and speaking up for yourself. I learned at a young age that strong communication is tied to future opportunities and success. For the past 20 years I have seen amazing results in training students and adults to stand up and speak with confidence.You can’t buy confidence on Amazon or at Walmart; but you can learn it, develop it and grow from it. There is no greater joy then to see someone conquer their fear of speaking, overcome low self esteem or eliminate shyness.
Public speaking is like a sport or playing an instrument, the more you practice, the better you become. Over the years, we have produced numerous provincial and international public speaking champions along with helping many students gain entrance into desired private schools, colleges, universities and medical schools. Adults have landed their dream jobs, have overcome low self esteem and have become excellent communicators resulting in stronger relationships and better conversations.
I have had the privilege of coaching students in Malaysia, China, India, United States and at home in Canada. Regardless of where I teach, communication results in a ‘connection’ and that connection can change your life. I encourage you to stand up and speak, believe in yourself and know the best version of you will take time to develop, and you are definitely worth it.
Our Teachers
Including Ontario Certified Teachers, Award winning public speakers, coaches, distinguished toastmasters, authors and interview mavens who have overcome the fear of public speaking. Our teachers understand the struggle of public speaking and the ways to overcome it, with a proven track record.

LA J.
Stand Up and Speak Founder, Program Director

Anu R.
Ontario Certified Teacher,
Public Speaking Specialist

Nahid S.
Ontario Certified Teacher,
Director of Education

Sabrina M.
Ontario Certified Teacher,
Public Speaking Specialist
Testimonials
What people are saying about Stand Up and Speak
Community
We’ve collaborated with many partners in the our communities.
Media Mentions
As featured on Rogers Television, MuchMusic, CJML Radio, and many more…
Awards
Stand Up and Speak graduates have won many awards.
Past Winners
See a collection of our past winners in action with these brief recorded sessions.