ASCEND Learning event - Communication

The ASCEND programme is funded by Dormant Assets NI through the National Lottery Community Fund’s Access to Resilience Programme.

This introductory session, led by journalist Judith Hill, explores how effective communication can help minority-led organisations share their stories, challenge stereotypes, and connect with wider audiences.

Participants will discover practical tools to communicate with clarity and confidence — and will also learn strategies to protect their wellbeing, boundaries, and ownership when telling their personal or community stories

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the session, participants will:

1. Understand what makes a message clear, compelling, and audience-focused.
2. Recognise how context, bias, and identity shape how messages are received.
3. Gain confidence in public speaking and media presentation.
4. Learn how to protect themselves and their communities through ethical, empowered storytelling 

The session will start with some soup and sandwiches at 5.30pm and the training will commence at 6pm.

Trainer Bio

Jude Hill-Mitchell is a Media Trainer, Podcast Host, Podcast Coach and Storytelling Specialist. As an experienced broadcast journalist, her career at UTV saw her report, produce, and present compelling stories from across the globe for Northern Ireland audiences. Jude’s expertise spans hard-hitting current affairs programming to sensitive community reporting. She has tackled complex issues including poverty, gang crime, and social justice, with a focus on amplifying voices that often go unheard in public discourse. 

In her role with Bespoke Communications, Jude empowers people to harness the power of authentic storytelling for impact and change. Her unique approach blends professional broadcasting expertise with a deep understanding of community engagement and audience impact.