This year, I’ve had the privilege of being a Youth Patron for Nulsen Group. My fellow Patrons and I were given the responsibility of organising and executing the annual Nulsen Quiz Night. Throughout this, my capability of effective communication has grown substantially.

We had started proposing the overall event seven weeks prior and was delegating tasks in our weekly meetings. Effective communication was crucial between the patrons as we had to ensure the finalised date with the Quiz Night did not clash with other events and that our desired venue was free. After our discussions, we decided that we needed to contact Roz Collins, the All Saints’ Events Coordinator, to discuss the creation of our marketing posters and the Try-booking link for purchasing the tickets. I demonstrated effective communication in this circumstance because I had to clearly state to Ms Collins the message that I wanted to get across to different target audiences.

On the night of the event, we had to examine the roles of each patron, such as selling raffle tickets, packing the gift baskets, or welcoming everyone with an address. While selling the raffle tickets to each table, we had to listen to the requests and demands of the buyers for clear communication, confirming that our full attention was on them. A struggle that occurred was when we were approached by multiple people, requiring our divided attention. To ensure effective communication, I maintained full focus and favourable body language without being overwhelmed.

Admittedly, other capabilities of organising, collaborating and leadership have also been demonstrated in the duration of the planning and process of the Quiz Night. But when reflecting on my experience, the development of my personal capability to effectively communicate has allowed me to deliver multiple messages with clarity. I am grateful for the opportunity to utilise effective communication and recognise that this capability will continue to be advanced in the future.