Scores of women have found their voice and improved their communication skills after attending a course in the art of public speaking.

The boot camp, organised by WeSpeak, included coaching and practice sessions, and presentations from guest speakers to help participants to overcome their fear of speaking before a large audience.

A poll conducted before the session revealed that more than 75 per cent of attendees were “nervous, anxious or terrified” of having to speak in public.

Throughout the day, attendees heard from a range of speakers, including professional MC Patrina O’Connor Paynter, and world-record breaking rower Theresa Patricios, who spoke about the power of overcoming fear.

At the conclusion of the camp, participants were again asked to explain how they felt about having to speak publicly. Eighty per cent replied that they were now “OK, confident or excited”, while many said they had been “empowered, inspired, equipped and braver” after the event.

Carolyn Myers, the chairwoman of WeSpeak Bermuda, said the camp had been transformational.

She said: “Through the WeSpeak boot camp, we aim to create an environment where women can feel safe and supported enough to unlock their full potential and find their voice.

“The impact of this event is evident in the feedback from its participants. We are thrilled to see the positive transformation in these women and we look forward to supporting them on their journey as they approach public speaking with new-found confidence and determination."