I help the leaders of tomorrow refine their message, find their voice and transform into powerful public speakers.

Find out more about Octavia

• How has your education informed your teaching?

  I have a first-class degree in Philosophy, Religion, and Ethics from King's College London, where I received the Shelford Prize, awarded to the highest-performing student. Through my degree I learnt to construct persuasive arguments and communicate complex ideas simply.
  
  After university, I trained as an actor at ArtsEd, one of the UK's top drama schools. During my MA in acting, I honed the skills to connect with an audience truthfully.
  
  When I trained in improv comedy, I learnt the vital skill of adaptability. When things go wrong on stage or during a presentation, you can actually increase your authority if you own that sticky moment and handle it with confidence.

• What's a common error people make when it comes to public speaking?

  They don't practice. They spend all their time thinking about what to say but forget to actually practice saying it. Then, when they stand up to deliver it, they're doing it for the first time. Practice is key. You don't become great at anything without doing it, lots of it. Speaking is just the same. Anyone can be a great speaker but it takes work and a little guidance doesn't go amiss either!

• When did your interest in teaching arise?

  Alongside my work as an actor, I worked as a producer of corporate videos. When interviewing senior professionals about their organisations, I noticed that while some could easily translate their eloquence and charisma on camera, others struggled.
  
  Even at the height of their careers, leaders would freeze, stumble, sweat, or repeatedly start over. The issue wasn't just nerves - it was often a lack of constructive preparation.
  
  Producing these videos taught me that even the most accomplished professionals can struggle to communicate effectively. I realised that the skills I had developed as a professional communicator could be harnessed to help others speak with coherence and charisma.

• Why are you passionate about teaching public speaking?

  I really enjoy coaching public speaking because it's where my enthusiasm, skills, and experience intersect, allowing me to serve others. My firsthand experience has shown me that a great idea, when shared with clarity and authenticity, can drive meaningful change. My coaching is driven by a passion to equip speakers with the skills to communicate powerfully and inspire action.

• What is a mistake people often make when writing a speech?

  They don't know what they're aiming for. They simply list everything they know - no structure, no journey, no impact.
  
  The first question I ask is: Why are you speaking? What's the goal?
  
  Once we know your objective we can work to reach it!

• Could you provide an instant top tip to help us feel good in body and mind?

  I believe freeing the body is the best way to free the mind. Move! Even a quick shake of your arms and legs can make a world of difference.

• What has surprised you when teaching?

  It's estimated that 65% of daily conversations are based on storytelling, yet when people present, they often fail to include any storytelling at all - and they're missing out, big time. Stories are the most powerful communication tool. If you want to land your message, storytelling is key to creating connection, persuasion, and driving action.
  
  I help students:
  
  Find their stories - you have plenty, you just need to know where to look.
  Structure them for maximum impact.
  Know what to include (and what to leave out) so their message isn't forgotten.
  Seamlessly integrate stories into any presentation.