Successful public speakers are not born. In other words, it is a skill that must be learned and fine-tuned. Sure, some folks may have higher anxiety than others, but almost anyone can master the skill with enough practice and confidence. Technology can even help too, such as the brilliant Logitech Spotlight Remote.

Speaking of Logitech, the company has partnered with TED for a new initiative called Spotlight Presentation Academy. Since TED is all about public speaking and storytelling, and Logitech manufactures the aforementioned Spotlight Remote, this seems like a marriage made in heaven. The focus of the partnership is to improve people's public speaking skills, and the academy will select 15 individuals that are looking to get better in that regard.

"Public speaking is a well known fear for many of us -- in fact, people are often more afraid of public speaking than they are of heights or even death! But public speaking can be rewarding and even fun. That's why we’ve partnered with TED to help people develop their presentation skills. With TED's storytelling expertise and our Spotlight presentation remote in hand, this academy is going to produce some incredible public speakers -- and help us all understand that becoming a great public speaker is just a function of know-how, practice, and easy tools that help you story tell without crazy stress," says Bracken Darrell, CEO of Logitech.

Logitech explains that it "has enlisted Bryn Freedman, editorial director and curator of the TED Institute, as the official TED coach for this custom Spotlight Presentation Academy. Freedman will lead 15 aspiring presenters through a curriculum that includes storytelling immersion and structure. Through workshops and one-on-one sessions, she'll also help attendees refine their technique and provide feedback on content and delivery. Then, attendees can experience what it’s like to practice speaking on the TED stage in New York."

If you want to be one of the 15 people selected to participate, you will have to submit an entry here. One of the requirements is to submit a video explaining why you should be picked. Keep in mind, there is no guarantee you will be selected -- make sure to read the rules here. Since the goal is to help people that are deficient in public speaking, I would urge you to only apply if you need the help -- don't risk taking a spot from someone who could really use the assistance.

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