On Tuesday, 23rd September 2025, London-based international communication and influence expert Jose Ucar partnered with the Rotaract Club of Sahel Metn, Lebanon, to deliver a virtual masterclass titled “Own the Room: How to Speak with Confidence and Impact.”
The 60-minute online session attracted young professionals eager to sharpen their public speaking skills and learn how to project confidence in any situation. Although delivered virtually, the energy was high, the interaction lively, and the lessons practical.
Why communication matters
In today’s fast-moving world, communication is more than a technical skill. The way someone speaks influences how they are perceived, how far their ideas travel, and whether people are moved to act. For leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals across industries, strong public speaking skills are essential to building trust and creating impact.
The session highlighted that confident communication is not about using complex words or relying on polished slides. Instead, it is about presence, clarity, and the ability to connect with people on a human level. Audiences do not remember jargon-filled speeches, but they do remember how a speaker made them feel. This is why the art of communication lies not in perfection, but in connection.
Jose often reminds people that communication skills are not just useful on a stage or in a meeting. They shape everyday conversations with colleagues, clients, and even family members. When we learn to communicate clearly and confidently, we not only influence others but also create stronger relationships.
Turning nerves into strength
One of the most relatable themes was how to deal with nerves. Many participants admitted to feeling anxious before speaking. The masterclass reframed this anxiety as a positive sign, showing that the message matters and that the speaker cares about the outcome.
Instead of fighting nerves, Jose encouraged participants to embrace them and use the adrenaline as fuel. Nervous energy, when directed with focus, becomes passion. That passion gives authenticity to delivery and captures the attention of an audience.
Practical advice was also given to help manage these emotions, such as grounding techniques, controlled breathing, and careful preparation. These small actions can reduce tension and help a speaker channel nervous energy into confidence.
Tools to own the room
The program introduced participants to practical tools they could use immediately, such as:
- Crafting clear and compelling messages.
- Engaging audiences from the very first word.
- Adapting delivery to suit different people and settings.
- Using storytelling to connect information with emotion.
- Handling unexpected questions with composure.
- Reducing reliance on slides and speaking with authentic presence.
The message was simple: slides should support the speaker, not replace them. True impact comes from the person, not the presentation deck. A strong voice, confident body language, and genuine passion will always outweigh fancy visuals.
Storytelling as connection
Storytelling was another theme emphasised throughout the masterclass. Stories allow people to understand complex information in simple ways. They create emotional connection, helping audiences relate to a speaker on a human level.
Participants were reminded that stories do not have to be long or dramatic. Even short anecdotes from personal or professional life can illustrate a key point and make it memorable. When a story is tied to the message, it strengthens understanding and retention.
What participants said
The masterclass received enthusiastic feedback that underscored its value:
“The session was amazing, very interactive and full of practical insights. Highly recommended!” – Jean-Marc El Sebaaly, Director of Professional Development at Rotaract Lebanon
“He helped us host presentations better by giving very insightful advice on how to present well, keep the audience focused, and react in critical situations. Thank you and looking forward to attending more sessions!”
“Had the chance to attend a session and it was GREAT! Engaging, inspiring, full of insights…”
Such responses highlight the blend of structure, energy, and encouragement that makes these sessions resonate. Participants not only learned techniques but also left believing in their ability to apply them.
The power of virtual
A question often raised is whether online sessions can match the impact of face-to-face training. This masterclass showed that the answer is yes.
When a speaker brings preparation, clarity, and authentic energy, a virtual room can feel just as engaging as a physical one. Participants discovered that what matters most is not the platform, but the speaker’s ability to connect with people.
The lesson was clear: it is not the medium that makes the difference but the message and the way it is delivered. The audience’s focus is always on the speaker’s energy, authenticity, and clarity of thought.
A wider mission
Collaborating with Rotaract Lebanon reflects a wider mission: equipping the next generation of leaders with the communication skills they need to succeed. By running the program online, access was extended beyond borders, allowing a diverse audience to benefit from world-class training without leaving their homes.
Sessions like this are not only about presenting well. They are about helping people believe in their voice, influence their world, and lead conversations that matter. Developing strong communication skills prepares people not only for leadership positions but also for the daily interactions that shape careers and relationships.
Continuing the Journey
Building the confidence to speak with impact is not something that happens overnight. It is a journey that develops through practice, reflection, and the right kind of support. For those ready to take the next step, Jose offers flexible ways to keep growing as a communicator. Some people choose a one-off session that provides fresh inspiration. Others prefer a workshop tailored to their team’s goals. And many benefit from one-to-one coaching, where feedback and progress feel more personal.
At the heart of these options is the Presenting with Impact and Confidence workshop. This transformational experience takes participants beyond theory and into practice, helping them refine their message, strengthen their presence, and deliver with authenticity. People leave not only with new techniques but with tools they can apply immediately in professional and personal settings, turning communication into a lifelong skill that grows with them.