Increasing the confidence of Doctors of the World spokespeople through bespoke media and digital skills training 

In July 2023, Doctors of the World approached IMIX to improve their National Health Advisors (NHAs) communication skills. These NHAs are experts-by-experience and are responsible for delivering healthcare training to migrant groups and conducting Safe Surgery sessions in GP practices. The goal was to equip NHAs with the tools to deliver effective public speaking, in-person or online.

The NHAs, despite their expertise, needed more confidence in speaking engagements. Their responsibilities included addressing a variety of audiences, from fundraising events to medical students and from charities interested in expanding Equality, Diversity, and Belonging (EbE) initiatives to presenting research findings. They also needed to effectively represent Doctors of the World and explain the role of NHAs, something they had limited experience in. Additionally, they expressed an interest in using video content for social media campaigns.

IMIX responded with a three-day training program tailored to the NHAs’ needs. The curriculum included public speaking, media engagement, filmmaking for social media, and train-the-trainer techniques. IMIX staff and a lived-experience consultant provided expertise to develop the program.

The training program provided NHAs with strategies to conquer nerves and stage fright, building confidence in their abilities. They learned how to craft compelling presentations and engage with audiences effectively. The NHAs also learned how to create video content using the power of storytelling through visual mediums. They were taught to leverage social media platforms to advance their causes and amplify their voices.

The training program empowered NHAs with newfound communication skills, enabling them to make significant contributions to Doctors of the World’s mission. They are now confident and skilled in delivering impactful training sessions, engaging with diverse audiences, and spearheading advocacy efforts through various media channels.

At the London Premiere of Waad Al-Kateab’s new film, We Dare To Dream, in front of an influential audience of thousands including celebrities and influencers, one of the attendees of the training gave a powerful impromptu speech about the need to welcome and accept refugees which was warmly received. This was an important reminder of the significance in supporting and enabling those with lived experience to have confidence in sharing their voice and opinions.