Our Story
Meet Sumedha
Hi! My name is Sumedha Bahri, and I am the founder of Highest Speak! I am a public speaking and presentation coach for children and adults, intellectual property attorney, engineer, adjunct law professor, stand-up comic, public speaker, and a certified mindfulness coach for children. More than any of that, however, I am a mother to a hilarious middle schooler son and a rambunctious and an amazing elementary school daughter!
As my children entered elementary school in a renowned school district, I have noticed that though there is a wonderful focus on STEM and testing/growing these skills, there is an immense gap in academics in teaching children public speaking, presentation, and even basic communication/socialization skills. I have met too many children who are gifted and brilliant according to this test scores. However, they freeze when having a general conversation!
I have had the privilege of working at multiple esteemed companies, law firms, universities, and entertainment related companies, and have met many individuals with extremely impressive credentials and Ivy League educations. People with lesser educations (on paper), however, are constantly succeeding them. Why? Because leaders, in addition to their education, have excellent communication, public speaking, and presentation skills!
One of the most common phobias for adults is public speaking, which is often a deterrent in career advancement and even in their social lives! Further, according to research, public speaking is one of the greatest creators of anxiety in high school students. This fear and anxiety of public speaking and even speaking in social situations extends into adulthood, creating anxious and often depressed adults.
This is where “Highest Speak” wants to make a difference! We have developed a curriculum that begins as early as Kindergarten and keeps growing with the child through grade 12. We believe in implementing effective public communication skills EARLY. With children and teens, “it pays to play.” Children learn most effectively when they are enjoying themselves! Our curriculum utilizes creative speaking exercises, games, lessons, practice, and, mindfulness to elevate public speaking and communication skills to their maximum potential. Our program further provides children with the tools and methods to approach any public speaking situation fearlessly and with enthusiasm throughout their academics, careers, and lives.
The benefits of implementing these skills early are priceless! For example, encouraging these skills early results in:
- Increased ability to make friends and reduced incidents of bullying
- Increasing self confidence with the more public speaking the child does
- Improved communication with parents
- Improved communication with teachers
- Creating a more well-rounded child in addition to STEM
- Better overall mental health due to the ability to express oneself and ones’ emotions
- Increased leadership skills
So my question is, why not begin providing elementary level children these skills NOW to prevent this phobia/deterrent in the future? Why NOT create more confident communicators and future leaders? Why NOT provide additional enrichment for our already gifted students to make them more well rounded? Especially in an era where children are glued to phones, tablets, and video games, public speaking skills are not only beneficial, but ESSENTIAL! What are we waiting for? Think about it! Or better yet, let’s talk about it!
Our Team
Highest Speak is nothing without our amazing team! Our passionate instructors and coaches bring years of experience in education and public speaking, creating a supportive and engaging environment where every child can thrive and find their voice.
Stay updated: Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Get the latest news, discounts, class schedules and more, delivered right to your inbox so you never miss a thing!
What People Are Saying
My daughter’s speech went viral in my running group. Everyone was surprised by her clear articulation and inspirational story line. Thanks for helping her to be a confident speaker!
Kavitha
Parent
I have watched Sumedha work with children and she has a natural, unique gift. Her talent has no boundary. She connects with children immediately, makes them feel relaxed, suddenly teaches them something and they walk away thinking it was play time. Sumedha will disarm you with her friendly, outgoing personality and then she will make you laugh while interjecting an unexpected joke in the conversation. I am sharing her website and business model with all my friends.
Townley C.
Colleague
Months after taking your class we have seen great results with Lennox’s public speaking. He is doing excellent during his book engagements. Thank you.
