CLCN Public Speaking Club

Overview

The CLCN Public Speaking Club is a free, community-driven program run by the Communication Language & Culture Network (CLCN) — an ACNC-registered, 100% volunteer-led not-for-profit based in Adelaide, South Australia. Founded in 2018, the club is dedicated to nurturing the communication, confidence, and leadership skills of international students, young professionals, and migrants from non-native English-speaking backgrounds. With a warm, inclusive atmosphere and a strong focus on real-world employability, it stands out as one of Adelaide's most accessible and culturally diverse speaking communities.

Best For

• International students seeking to build English communication and workplace-readiness skills
• Skilled migrants and newcomers to Australia looking to grow their professional networks and confidence
• Young professionals aiming to sharpen their presentation, storytelling, and public speaking abilities

Meeting Format

• Mode: Hybrid (in-person at rotating UniSA Adelaide venues + online via Zoom)
• Frequency: Approximately every 3 weeks, on Wednesday evenings (some sessions may shift to other weekday evenings)
• Duration: 2.5 hours (6:00 PM – 8:30 PM ACST)
• Group size: Events typically draw a diverse mix of students and professionals; past signature events have attracted between 100 and 250 participants

Typical Session Flow

1. Arrival & welcome — Attendees check in, collect refreshments (complimentary drinks provided at in-person sessions), and mingle before the program begins
2. Industry speaker or masterclass — A featured guest speaker or facilitator leads an interactive presentation on a public speaking or workplace communication topic (e.g., storytelling, persuasion, voice and presence, speaking up in meetings)
3. Practical exercises & speech activities — Participants take part in speech games, ice-breaking activities, and hands-on exercises designed to build confidence and stage presence
4. Networking & wrap-up — The session closes with open networking, allowing attendees to connect with peers and industry professionals in a relaxed setting

Language And Speaking Level

• Languages used: English
• Recommended level: All levels welcome; sessions are conducted in English but are specifically designed to be accessible to non-native English speakers
• Beginner friendly: Yes — the club explicitly targets those from non-native English-speaking backgrounds and creates a low-pressure, supportive environment ideal for first-time speakers

Membership And Costs

• Trial policy: No trial period needed — all sessions are free and open to everyone
• Membership fee: Free (AUD 0 per year)
• Extra costs: None; complimentary drinks and refreshments are provided at in-person sessions at no charge

Venue And Accessibility

• Address context: Sessions rotate across UniSA Adelaide city campuses. Confirmed past venues include the Hawke Building (Level 6, Room H6-03, 55 North Terrace, corner of North Terrace and Fenn Place) and the Jeffery Smart Building (243 Hindley Street, Adelaide CBD). Some sessions have also been held at community centres in the Adelaide CBD area. Always check the specific event listing for the confirmed venue of each session.
• Transit/parking: All venues are located in the Adelaide CBD and are well-served by public transport, including Adelaide Metro buses and the free City Connector bus. The Hawke Building is a short walk from the Adelaide Railway Station. Street parking and paid car parks are available nearby.
• Accessibility: UniSA city campus buildings generally provide lift access and accessible entrances; specific accessibility details for each venue should be confirmed with the organiser prior to attending.

Joining Steps

1. Register online — Each session is listed as a free event on ticketing platforms (such as Humanitix or Eventbrite). Search for "CLCN Public Speaking Club" or "CLCN Workplace Communication and Public Speaking Club" to find upcoming events and secure a spot.
2. Prepare nothing in advance — No preparation is required for a first visit. Simply register and show up; all activities are guided by facilitators on the night.
3. Arrive and enjoy — On arrival, check in at the door, grab a complimentary drink, and introduce yourself to other attendees. The evening is structured to be welcoming and low-pressure, especially for newcomers.

Community Notes

• Atmosphere/culture: The club fosters a genuinely inclusive, multicultural community. With a strong focus on culturally and linguistically diverse participants, attendees will find a non-judgmental space where different accents, backgrounds, and experience levels are celebrated rather than overlooked.
• Feedback style: Feedback is constructive and encouraging rather than competitive. The emphasis is on personal growth, practical skill-building, and building confidence over time — not on formal evaluation or ranking.
• Notable constraints or etiquette: The club operates on a volunteer basis, so session topics, venues, and dates can vary each cycle. Always check the latest event listing for up-to-date details. The expanded program name for the 2025–2026 series is "CLCN Workplace Communication and Public Speaking Club," reflecting a broadened focus on professional communication skills alongside traditional public speaking.

Last Verified

• Date: 2026-05-24