Youth Pro-Animal Awards Training Series – Video 1
Want to improve your camera presence and build confidence as a young activist or content creator? In this video training, mentor Shaka Smith (@ShakaStrong)—actor, attorney, vegan advocate, and host of The Wonder Well podcast—shares expert tips to help youth show up powerfully on camera and in life.
🎥 What You’ll Learn in This Confidence Training Video:
- How to build camera confidence through repetition
- Why posture, eye contact, and energy matter
- Tools like teleprompters and scripting for beginners
- How to pitch brands and handle rejection
- Why authenticity beats perfection every time
💬 Shaka Smith on Building Confidence
Confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build. Shaka shares his personal journey from theatre kid to podcast host, explaining how weekly practice helped him overcome fear and develop a strong on-camera presence.
“No matter how bad I did in week one, by week 52 I’d be great—or at least a lot better.”
He encourages youth to treat the camera like a person, film often, and remember they’re in control—editing gives you the power to shape your message before it goes public.
🔑 Key Tips for Camera Presence
Posture: Shoulders back, chin up—imagine a string lifting you from the top of your head. Eye Contact: Connect with your audience, even if it’s just one person. Energy: Bring your full self. The audience is rooting for you.
Shaka reframes nerves as a sign that you care. Instead of trying to eliminate fear, he urges youth to focus on their “why” and show up authentically.
🛠️ Tools for Beginners: Teleprompters & Scripting
Shaka shares that while he sometimes uses a teleprompter for auditions, he prefers memorizing key points and speaking from the heart. For beginners, he recommends using whatever tools help you feel confident—teleprompter apps, written notes, or simple outlines.
“Think of it like training wheels. Use them until you’re ready to ride solo.”
🤝 How to Pitch Brands with Confidence
Shaka offers practical advice for youth looking to build brand partnerships—even with zero followers. His strategy:
- Follow and engage with the brand first
- Find something you genuinely love about their mission
- Send a simple message asking how to apply as an ambassador
- Reach out to 10–20 brands a day to build momentum
He reminds youth that rejection is part of the process—and often a blessing in disguise.
“Rejection is protection. The right brands will align with your values.”
🎬 Final Takeaways: Start Where You Are
Clear lighting and sound help your message land, but perfection isn’t required. Start with what you have. Build as you go. Stay grounded in your purpose.
📺 Watch the Full Confidence Training Video
Learn directly from Shaka Smith and start building your confidence today. 👉 Watch Now
Stay tuned for our next mentor training post: Finding Your Video Voice and Style with Eunice Reyes.
