AIPSCE LOGO

Shaping Voices. Building Leaders

We empower Africa’s next generation of communicators, leaders, and change-makers.

Explore our programs
Who we are

Who We Are

The African Institute of Public Speaking and Communication Excellence (AIPSCE) is Africa’s premier institute dedicated to raising a new generation of confident communicators and transformational leaders. We equip individuals and organizations with the skills to speak with clarity, courage, and global influence through world-class training, research, and community programs.

“Communication is not just a skill — it’s the foundation of leadership.”

Our Purpose

We are driven by a clear purpose and a strong set of values that guide everything we do.

our Mission

To provide high-quality learning experiences that equip individuals and organizations with the skills, confidence, and platform to communicate effectively, lead boldly, and make lasting impact across Africa and beyond.

our vision

To be Africa’s leading hub for learning and nurturing confident, world-class communicators who influence every sphere of society with clarity, courage, and authenticity.

our Aim

To build a thriving environment where individuals across Africa develop the confidence, competence, and global relevance needed to communicate with excellence in every sphere of life.

Our core values

Excellence
Inclusivity
Integrity
Innovation
Influence

meet our team

Our team of experts and fellows are dedicated to fostering communication excellence.

Dr Emmanuel Dorgbaa

Dr. Emmanuel David Dorgbaa

Founder / Executive Director

View Profile
Engr. George Chukwulewa Okoroma, FNSE, FAEng, JP

Engr. George Chukwulewa Okoroma, FNSE, FAEng, JP

Chairman, Board of Trustee

View Profile

Mrs. Stella Dorgbaa

Member, Board of Trustees / Director Finance & Operations

View Profile

Associate Prof. Sylvester Udeorah

Member, Board of Trustee

View Profile
Mojisola Olatinwo

Mojisola Olatinwo

Board of Trustees / Director Programs & Training

View Profile

voices of impact

Hear from those who have experienced the AIPSCE transformation.

The coaching I received from Dr. Emmanuel Dorgbaa and the African Institute of Public Speaking and Communication Excellence team transformed my confidence and public speaking. Today, I command attention, present with clarity, and deliver with impact.
Offiong Eyo Essien (Mr. Klinton)
Offiong Eyo Essien (Mr. Klinton)Executive Secretary, MAN (Cross River/Akwa Ibom)
Enrolling with the African Institute of Public Speaking and Communication Excellence was one of the best decisions I made. The learning environment was educative, friendly, and truly impactful. The coaching sessions were carefully tailored to address my specific gaps in public speaking and communication.
Mrs. Bukky Banji-Adekoya
Mrs. Bukky Banji-Adekoya

PROFILE OF Dr. Emmanuel David Dorgbaa

Dr. Emmanuel David Dorgbaa — fondly known as The Oxygen — is a transformational communicator, leadership coach, and the Founder / Executive Director of the African Institute of Public Speaking and Communication Excellence (AIPSCE).

A seasoned speaker and executive communication strategist, Dr. Dorgbaa has dedicated his career to helping professionals, ministers, corporate executives, and entrepreneurs find their voice, amplify their influence, and communicate with authority.

He honed his craft under the mentorship of world-renowned communication authority TJ Walker — one of the most respected public speaking and leadership communication experts in the world, with over three decades of experience coaching presidents, CEOs, and thought leaders across continents.
To complement this foundation, Dr. Dorgbaa also earned a Life Coaching Certification from the New Skills Academy, United Kingdom, expanding his capacity to integrate communication mastery with personal growth, performance psychology, and leadership transformation.

His work sits at the intersection of psychology, performance, and practical communication, empowering individuals to overcome fear, command presence, and deliver messages that move audiences to action.

Before establishing AIPSCE, Dr. Dorgbaa served as Executive Secretary of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), where he made history as the first to effectively resuscitate a moribund Branch and manage it with his primary branch simultaneously — achieving record-breaking results over five consecutive years. His leadership experience in corporate management and public engagement continues to shape his pragmatic approach to communication training and professional development.

Dr. Dorgbaa holds a B.Eng. from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), a PGD and M.Sc. in International Trade and Development, and a Ph.D in International Trade and Development Finance, all from the University of Port Harcourt.

A Certified Life Coach, Public Speaking / Communication Coach, and Sales Coach, he is also a Fellow of the Mentoring and Career Development Institute of Nigeria (FMCDI) and a member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM).

Dr. Dorgbaa is a sought-after conference speaker, author, and trainer, having facilitated sessions for leading organizations including NLNG, SPDC, Nigerian Breweries, 7UP Bottling Plc, Dufil Prima Foods, NECA, and others. His published works include Simply Unique (The Art of Being Yourself), Fear to Fame, with very engaging e-books on Closing Deals with Confidence, Four Things I Did to Overcome Stage Fright, and Own the Mic.

He also hosts the radio program Find Your Voice with The Oxygen — an inspiring weekly broadcast that teaches practical communication principles for leadership, influence, and personal transformation.

Through AIPSCE, Dr. Dorgbaa is leading a new generation of African communicators — confident, ethical, articulate, and globally competitive. His vision is to institutionalize world-class communication education across Africa through research, training, and certification rooted in the Institute’s core values: Excellence, Integrity, Innovation, Inclusivity, and Influence.

Dr Dorgbaa believes that “Your voice is your leadership currency. Learn to use it — and the world will listen.”

PROFILE OF Engr. George Chukwulewa Okoroma

Engr. George Chukwulewa Okoroma, FNSE, FAEng, JP, is the Group Managing Director (GDM) of Gambeta Groupe Limited. He is a distinguished professional engineer, philanthropist, and leader who believes that integrity, honesty, and professionalism remain the core values of professional practice. His mission for the industry is to bridge the gap between local companies, best practices, and excellence in Engineering for sustainable development.

Engr. George graduated as a Civil Engineer from Paul Sabatier University, Toulouse, France in 1981. He holds a Master of Science (MSc.) in Project Management from the United Kingdom. Engr. George, after years of working in the Built and Natural Environment on several projects, co-founded Gambeta Nigeria Limited, Gapec Consultants Limited, and other engineering firms in Nigeria.

Engr. George is an active member and fellow of various professional associations in Nigeria and overseas. He has received several distinguished services awards. He is a Justice of Peace by the Rivers State Government, Past President of ACEN, Chairman of COREN South-South Steering Committee, Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering (FAEng.), and

President-Elect of Fidic Africa.

PROFILE OF DR. SYLVESTER ALOR FAVOR UDEORAH

Sylvester Udeorah, PhD, is a Development Economist with a special interest in Labour/Human Resources Economics. His research also covers specific areas such as Entrepreneurship/Business Economics, Health/Population Economics, and Agric and Rural Development Economics. He had his early education at Omorka Model Primary School and Illah Grammar School, Illah, between 1978 and 1990. He initially gained admission to study Accounting at OSISATECH Polytechnic, Emene-Enugu. Still, he later moved to Port Harcourt when he secured admission to study Management in 1993 at the University of Port Harcourt, Choba, where he graduated in 1998.

Dr. Sylvester Udeorah joined the services of the University of Port Harcourt in 2002 as an Administrative Assistant (AA), from where he rose to the rank of Principal Assistant Registrar (PAR) in 2013. In 2015, he transferred from administration to academic cadre in the same university, having obtained a Masters and PhD in Economics in 2008 and 2012, respectively. Since joining academia, he has taught several courses both at the Undergraduate and postgraduate levels. He is equally a participating lecturer at the University Sandwich Programme, College of Continuing Education (CCE), and an adjunct lecturer at the Graduate School of Business, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (UOE), and University of Port Harcourt Business School (UPBS).

He has supervised many students’ projects, theses, and dissertations. He has equally contributed to community service in various ways. Dr. Udeorah is the author of Illah of our Dream: Issues in our Community Development, among other books, as well as an Editor of two books of Reading – Cultism: Death Trap on our Campuses and Man, His Environment, Footprint and Legacy. He presently has over thirty (40) published journal articles as well as some chapters in books. Dr. Sylvester Udeorah has attended several workshops and conferences both locally and internationally.

Sylvester Udeorah has served and is still serving in many administrative positions in the University. For instance, he was Assistant Hall Warden, Aminu Kano Hall B, 2007-2009, Hall Warden, Nelson Mandela Block C, 2009-2011, Head, Protocol and Logistics, Vice-Chancellor’s Office, 2012-2015, Focal Person/Liaison Officer, Department of Economics Graduate Programme Anti-Plagiarism, Deputy Director & Coordinator of Programmes Institute of International Trade and Development (IITD) among others. Also, Udeorah has served as a Member, Secretary, or Chairman in over forty (40) University ad hoc and statutory committees since joining the services of the University, including the Steering Committee on Eradication of Cultism 2000-2005, Board of Survey 2010 – 2015, Convocation Committee 2002 – Date. He was the Congregation Representative on the Capital/Procurement Committee of the University.

He was a Member of, Committee on Development of new programmes /curriculum for PGD, MSC programmes at the Institute of International Trade and Development (IITD) 2018 – 2019. He was also the Consultant in the Development of the University of Port Harcourt Business District (PPP/BOT)- Business Development between the University of Port Harcourt and Everyday Group of Company Ltd.

Udeorah is a Member of the World Association of Academic Doctors (WAAD), Maryland, USA, Nigerian Economic Society (NES), Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), Association of Nigerian Universities Professional Administrators (ANUPA), and a Fellow of the Institute of Policy Management Development. He is equally an Alumnus of the London Training Institute, London, UK.

He is the President and Founder of the Club for Christ Int’l (2004) and, Leadership Drill Forum (2010). Udeorah sits on the Board of several Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), including Knit Together Initiative (KTI) and Legacy and Footprint Foundation (LFF). He has equally served his native community of Illah in different capacities. For instance, he was the Secretary General of the Illah Development Union of Nigeria (IDUN), President, Illah Youth Association, Port Harcourt Branch, and Chairman, Electoral Committee, Illah Development Union.

He has received several laurels/awards, including a letter of recognition for leadership by the authorities of the University of Port Harcourt (2008). In 2014, Udeorah was yet conferred with the honour of Distinguished Alumnus of the Faculty of Social Sciences. In 2025, he was honoured with an award by the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos, and also by the  World Association for Academic Doctors (WAAD), Maryland, USA.

Udeorah enjoys travelling and meeting people, and nurturing ideas for societal development. He is happily married to Dr. Florence Udeorah.

 

profile of Mojisola Olatinwo

Mojisola Olatinwo is a strategic and results-driven professional with extensive experience in business strategy, curriculum design, training facilitation, and organizational development. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Institute of Public Speaking, where she oversees curriculum design and development.

Mojisola is also the Head of Strategy at Good Worths Partners Limited and a Chartered Member of the Chartered Institute of Project Management of Nigeria (CIPMN). Her diverse background spans leadership and training roles at the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), West Africa Center for Innovative Development (WACID), Ehealth4Everyone, and Family Impact Nigeria.

She holds a degree in Library, Information and Archival Science from the University of Ibadan and is completing an MBA in Human Resource Management at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria

CERTIFIED MEMBERSHIP

The Practitioner's Standard of Excellence

Post-nominal: CMAIPC

OVERVIEW

Certified Membership is the Institute’s primary professional grade, awarded to experienced communicators, trainers, and leaders who have demonstrated sustained excellence in public speaking and communication practice. It is the standard-bearing tier of active professional membership.

PART I — ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

A. Professional Experience

1. Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of verifiable professional experience in public speaking, communication, training, media, education, law, leadership, or a related field.

2. Practice Record: Demonstrable record of consistent engagement with communication as a professional discipline — through speaking, facilitation, training, consulting, or thought leadership.

3. Accomplishment: Evidence of at least one significant professional accomplishment in communication — a keynote delivered, a program developed, a publication authored, or a campaign led.

B. Academic & Professional Qualifications

4. Academic Qualification: Holds a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in any field. Degrees in communication, linguistics, journalism, law, education, business, or related disciplines are an advantage.

5. Professional Certification: Holds a relevant professional certification in communication, public speaking, training, coaching, or allied disciplines from a recognized institution or body.

C. Commitment to the Field

6. Continuous Development: Demonstrates active engagement in professional development: attendance at conferences, completion of courses, participation in industry bodies, or membership of professional associations.

7. Community Contribution: Has contributed to the communication community through mentorship, voluntary service, knowledge sharing, or community engagement.

D. Character & Conduct

8. Integrity: Of good standing with no known professional misconduct, ethical violations, or reputational conduct inconsistent with the values of the Institute.

9. Endorsement: Supported by a written endorsement from one (1) current Member or Fellow of the Institute, or a recognized professional in the applicant’s field.

PART II — OBLIGATIONS OF CERTIFIED MEMBERSHIP

1. Annual Renewal: Pay annual membership dues as prescribed by the Institute to maintain active membership status.

2. Code of Conduct: Adhere to the Institute’s Code of Professional Ethics and Conduct at all times.

3. Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Complete a minimum of ten (10) CPD hours annually through AIPSCE-approved activities, workshops, seminars, or self-directed learning.

4. Active Participation: Participate in at least one (3) Institute program, event, or activity per year.

5. Mentorship: Adopt and provide informal guidance or support to Graduate and Student Members of the Institute.

6. Promotion: Actively promote the Institute’s vision, programs, and membership opportunities within professional networks.

7. Upgrade Pathway: Work progressively toward the criteria for Fellowship and contribute to the Institute’s growth accordingly.

GENERAL PROVISIONS & GOVERNANCE

Membership Application Process

All applications for membership must be submitted through the official AIPSCE membership application portal or by written application to the Membership and Admissions Committee. Applications must include all required documentation, endorsements (where applicable), personal statements, and applicable fees.

Membership Renewal

Membership is renewed annually upon payment of the prescribed dues and confirmation of continued compliance with membership obligations. Lapsed members may be reinstated upon application and payment of applicable reinstatement fees.

Upgrade & Progression

Members wishing to upgrade to a higher tier must formally apply to the Membership and Admissions Committee, providing evidence that they have met the criteria for the desired tier. The Committee may require an interview, portfolio review, or endorsement as part of the assessment process.

Suspension & Revocation of Membership

The Institute reserves the right to suspend or revoke membership of any member found to be in breach of the Code of Professional Ethics, guilty of conduct unbecoming a member, or who has misrepresented their credentials in their application. Such action shall follow due process as defined in the Institute’s Constitution and Bye-Laws.

Use of Post-Nominal Designations

Post-nominal designations (CMAIPC, AAIPC,) may only be used by members who are in active, paid-up standing with the Institute. Use of designations by lapsed or suspended members is prohibited and may attract formal sanction.

AIPSCE believes that every African has a story worth telling and a voice worth hearing. Our membership framework exists to equip, connect, and celebrate communicators at every stage of their journey — from the classroom to the boardroom, from the campus stage to the continental platform.

— The Membership and Admissions Committee, AIPSCE

GRADUATE MEMBERSHIP

From Academic Excellence to Professional Purpose

African Institute of Public Speaking and Communication Excellence (AIPSCE)

OVERVIEW

Graduate Membership is open to recent graduates who have completed academic programs in communication, public speaking, or related disciplines and who are transitioning into professional life. It serves as a bridge between formal education and active professional practice, providing mentorship, networks, and a platform for early-career communicators.

PART I — ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

A. Academic Qualifications

1. Degree Requirement: Has been awarded or is awaiting the conferment of a Bachelor’s degree, HND, or postgraduate qualification from a recognized institution.

2. Relevant Field: Degree or qualification in communication, linguistics, journalism, media studies, law, English, theatre arts, education, public relations, political science, business, or any field with a demonstrable link to communication or public speaking.

3. Recency: Has graduated within the last three (3) years at the time of application, or is in the process of completing their qualifying programme.

B. Communication Engagement

4. Academic Activity: Has participated in academic communication activities such as debates, moot courts, speech competitions, drama, broadcasting, student journalism, or academic presentations.

5. Co-curricular Involvement: Has served in a leadership, communication, or advocacy role in a student body, club, religious organisation, or community group.

C. Intent & Aspiration

6. Professional Vision: Demonstrates a clear intention to pursue a career or vocation that involves communication, public speaking, training, leadership, or advocacy.

7. Statement of Purpose: Submits a statement of purpose (minimum 250 words) outlining their academic background, communication interests, and professional aspirations.

D. Character

8. Integrity: Of good character and academic standing with no known ethical or disciplinary record

PART II — OBLIGATIONS OF GRADUATE MEMBERSHIP

1. Annual Dues: Pay the Graduate membership dues as prescribed by the Institute.

2. Code of Conduct: Uphold the Institute’s values and ethical standards in all settings.

3. CPD Engagement: Complete a minimum of four (4) CPD hours annually through Institute activities, webinars, or approved learning resources.

4. Mentorship Program: Actively engage with the AIPSCE mentorship scheme, accepting guidance from Certified Members, Associate Members, or Fellows assigned to them.

5. Participation: Attend at least one (2) Institute event, training, or virtual engagement per year.

6. Upgrade Pathway: Progress toward Associate Membership within two (2) years of commencing Graduate Membership by gaining relevant experience and meeting the applicable criteria.

7. Represent the Institute positively in academic and community settings, including within their institution or alumni network.

GENERAL PROVISIONS & GOVERNANCE

Membership Application Process

All applications for membership must be submitted through the official AIPSCE membership application portal or by written application to the Membership and Admissions Committee. Applications must include all required documentation, endorsements (where applicable), personal statements, and applicable fees.

Membership Renewal

Membership is renewed annually upon payment of the prescribed dues and confirmation of continued compliance with membership obligations. Lapsed members may be reinstated upon application and payment of applicable reinstatement fees.

Upgrade & Progression

Members wishing to upgrade to a higher tier must formally apply to the Membership and Admissions Committee, providing evidence that they have met the criteria for the desired tier. The Committee may require an interview, portfolio review, or endorsement as part of the assessment process.

Suspension & Revocation of Membership

The Institute reserves the right to suspend or revoke membership of any member found to be in breach of the Code of Professional Ethics, guilty of conduct unbecoming a member, or who has misrepresented their credentials in their application. Such action shall follow due process as defined in the Institute’s Constitution and Bye-Laws.

AIPSCE believes that every African has a story worth telling and a voice worth hearing. Our membership framework exists to equip, connect, and celebrate communicators at every stage of their journey — from the classroom to the boardroom, from the campus stage to the continental platform.

— The Membership and Admissions Committee, AIPSCE

ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP

The Gateway to Professional Standing

Post-nominal: AAIPC

OVERVIEW

Associate Membership is designed for emerging communication professionals who are building their practice, expanding their expertise, and establishing themselves in the field. It provides structured access to the Institute’s resources, networks, and development programs.

PART I — ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

A. Professional Experience

1. Experience: A minimum of two (2) years of professional experience in a communication-related field, or one (1) year of experience combined with relevant formal training or certification.

2. Demonstrated Engagement: Evidence of active engagement in public speaking, facilitation, training, media, corporate communication, or a related discipline — whether paid, voluntary, or community-based.

B. Academic & Professional Qualifications

3. Academic Qualification: Holds a minimum of a National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), or equivalent qualification. A Bachelor’s degree is advantageous.

4. Training or Certification: Has completed at least one recognized training program, workshop series, or short course in communication, public speaking, leadership, or a related subject.

C. Commitment to Growth

5. Learning Orientation: Actively seeking to develop professionally in communication and demonstrates willingness to engage with the Institute’s development resources.

6. Community Engagement: Has participated in or contributed to communication-related community, organizational, or civic activities.

D. Character & Conduct

7. Integrity: Of good character with no known ethical breaches or professional misconduct.

8. Application Statement: Submits a personal statement of intent (minimum 300 words) outlining their communication journey, goals, and reasons for seeking AIPSCE membership.

PART II — OBLIGATIONS OF ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP

1. Annual Dues: Pay annual membership dues as prescribed by the Institute.

2. Code of Conduct: Uphold the Institute’s Code of Professional Ethics and conduct themselves with integrity in all professional dealings.

3. CPD Engagement: Complete a minimum of six (6) CPD hours annually through Institute-approved learning activities.

4. Participation: Attend at least one (2) AIPSCE event, program, or virtual session per year.

5. Peer Engagement: Actively engage with the Institute’s member community through forums, groups, or collaborative activities.

6. Upgrade Readiness: Actively work toward the criteria for Certified Membership within a period not exceeding three (3) years of Associate Membership.

7. Promotion: Share AIPSCE’s programs and opportunities within their
personal and professional networks.

GENERAL PROVISIONS & GOVERNANCE

Membership Application Process

All applications for membership must be submitted through the official AIPSCE membership application portal or by written application to the Membership and Admissions Committee. Applications must include all required documentation, endorsements (where applicable), personal statements, and applicable fees.

Membership Renewal

Membership is renewed annually upon payment of the prescribed dues and confirmation of continued compliance with membership obligations. Lapsed members may be reinstated upon application and payment of applicable reinstatement fees.

Upgrade & Progression

Members wishing to upgrade to a higher tier must formally apply to the Membership and Admissions Committee, providing evidence that they have met the criteria for the desired tier. The Committee may require an interview, portfolio review, or endorsement as part of the assessment process.

Suspension & Revocation of Membership

The Institute reserves the right to suspend or revoke membership of any member found to be in breach of the Code of Professional Ethics, guilty of conduct unbecoming a member, or who has misrepresented their credentials in their application. Such action shall follow due process as defined in the Institute’s Constitution and Bye-Laws.

Use of Post-Nominal Designations

Post-nominal designations (CMAIPC, AAIPC,) may only be used by members who are in active, paid-up standing with the Institute. Use of designations by lapsed or suspended members is prohibited and may attract formal sanction.

AIPSCE believes that every African has a story worth telling and a voice worth hearing. Our membership framework exists to equip, connect, and celebrate communicators at every stage of their journey — from the classroom to the boardroom, from the campus stage to the continental platform.

— The Membership and Admissions Committee, AIPSCE

STUDENT MEMBERSHIP

Building Tomorrow's Voices Today

African Institute of Public Speaking and Communication Excellence (AIPSCE)

OVERVIEW

Student Membership is the Institute’s entry-level category, designed to introduce young communicators to the world of professional public speaking and communication while they are still in formal education. It nurtures emerging talent, provides access to skill-building resources, and connects students to a pan-African community of communicators.

PART I — ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

A. Enrolment Status

1. Active Enrolment: Currently enrolled as a full-time or part-time student in an undergraduate, postgraduate, polytechnic, or vocational institution.

2. Proof of Enrolment: Must provide a valid student identification card, letter of enrolment, or equivalent proof of current student status at the time of application.

B. Age & Academic Level

3. Age Range: Open to students aged 16 years and above. Students under 18 require written consent from a parent or guardian.

4. Academic Level: Students in any year of study are eligible. Final-year students approaching graduation are encouraged to begin planning their transition to Graduate Membership.

C. Interest & Motivation

5. Interest in Communication: Demonstrates a genuine interest in public speaking, communication, debate, advocacy, media, leadership, or related areas, evidenced through participation in relevant activities or a personal statement.

6. Personal Statement: Submits a brief personal statement (minimum 150 words) describing their interest in communication, what they hope to gain from AIPSCE membership, and how they intend to contribute to the Institute’s student community.

D. Character

7. Good Standing: Is in good academic and disciplinary standing at their institution.

PART II — OBLIGATIONS OF STUDENT MEMBERSHIP

8. Annual Dues: Pay the Student membership dues as prescribed by the Institute.

9. Code of Conduct: Conduct themselves with integrity and professionalism in all Institute-related engagements.

10. Learning Participation: Actively engage with AIPSCE’s student-facing programs, webinars, competitions, and learning resources.

11. Skill Development: Commit to developing public speaking and communication competencies through Institute resources, self-study, and participation in speech or debate activities.

12. Annual Activity: Complete or attend at least one (1) AIPSCE student program, event, competition, or online session per academic year.

13. Transition Planning: Upon graduation or completion of their program, transition to Graduate Membership within twelve (12) months of leaving formal education.

14. Campus Representation: Where possible, serve as an AIPSCE student ambassador or representative within their institution, promoting communication excellence among peers.

GENERAL PROVISIONS & GOVERNANCE

Membership Application Process

All applications for membership must be submitted through the official AIPSCE membership application portal or by written application to the Membership and Admissions Committee. Applications must include all required documentation, endorsements (where applicable), personal statements, and applicable fees.

Membership Renewal

Membership is renewed annually upon payment of the prescribed dues and confirmation of continued compliance with membership obligations. Lapsed members may be reinstated upon application and payment of applicable reinstatement fees.

Upgrade & Progression

Members wishing to upgrade to a higher tier must formally apply to the Membership and Admissions Committee, providing evidence that they have met the criteria for the desired tier. The Committee may require an interview, portfolio review, or endorsement as part of the assessment process.

Suspension & Revocation of Membership

The Institute reserves the right to suspend or revoke membership of any member found to be in breach of the Code of Professional Ethics, guilty of conduct unbecoming a member, or who has misrepresented their credentials in their application. Such action shall follow due process as defined in the Institute’s Constitution and Bye-Laws.

AIPSCE believes that every African has a story worth telling and a voice worth hearing. Our membership framework exists to equip, connect, and celebrate communicators at every stage of their journey — from the classroom to the boardroom, from the campus stage to the continental platform.

— The Membership and Admissions Committee, AIPSCE

FELLOWSHIP OF THE INSTITUTE

Criteria, Obligations & Governance Framework

African Institute of Public Speaking and Communication Excellence (AIPSCE)

PREAMBLE

The Fellowship of AIPSCE (FAIPC) is the Institute’s highest collegial distinction. It is conferred upon individuals of demonstrable excellence who have made enduring contributions to the field of public speaking, communication, and leadership across Africa and the global stage. Fellows are not merely honored members — they are custodians of the Institute’s vision, ambassadors of its values, and cobuilders of a lasting continental legacy.

Fellowship is awarded by the Board of Fellows on the recommendation of the Membership and Admissions Committee and is subject to the Institute’s highest standards of ethical conduct, professional integrity, and commitment to African communication excellence.

PART I — ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR FELLOWSHIP

Candidates for Fellowship must satisfy at least one of each subcategory of the following criteria. One of each

A. PROFESSIONAL IMPACT & THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

1. Distinguished Track Record: Recognized for impactful contributions, including keynote speeches, media appearances, or sustained thought leadership in public speaking, communication, rhetoric, or related disciplines.

2. Media & Public Influence: Has demonstrated a credible public profile through broadcast media, digital platforms, speaking circuits, or advocacy that positions communication as a tool for transformation.

B. LEADERSHIP & INSTITUTIONAL STANDING

3. Senior Leadership: Holds or has held a senior leadership position in academia, government, the judiciary, corporate business, the media, civil society, faith institutions, or the nonprofit sector at a level that reflects public trust and professional authority.

4. Organizational Influence: Has founded, led, or significantly developed an organization, institution, or movement whose work intersects with communication, leadership development, education, or public life

C. ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS & PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION

5. Academic or Professional Credentials: Holds relevant academic qualifications or globally recognized professional certifications

D. CAPACITY BUILDING & EDUCATION

6. Training & Facilitation: Has led training programs, facilitated workshops, or been involved in any speaking engagement

7. Institutional Development: Has contributed to building institutions, frameworks, or systems that strengthen communication capacity at the organizational or national level.

E. INTEGRITY & PROFESSIONAL STANDING

8. Reputation of Integrity: Widely respected in their field and community, with no known ethical breaches, professional misconduct, criminal conviction, or reputational conduct inconsistent with the values of the Institute.

9. Nomination: Nominated in writing by at least two (2) current Fellows or Members of the Institute, or by an approved affiliated institution, who can attest to the candidate’s character, contributions, and suitability for Fellowship.

PART II — OBLIGATIONS OF FELLOWSHIP

Conferment of Fellowship implies a sacred trust. By accepting the honor, a Fellow undertakes the following obligations in the spirit of service, solidarity, and institutional stewardship:

A. INTELLECTUAL & STRATEGIC CONTRIBUTION

1. Thought Leadership: Actively contribute to the intellectual, strategic, and reputational advancement of the Institute through research, publications, policy engagement, or advisory input.

2. Board & Committee Participation: Be willing to serve on Institute committees, advisory panels, or working groups as invited, offering professional guidance and sector expertise.

B. MENTORSHIP & PROGRAMME ENGAGEMENT

3. Mentorship: Provide structured or informal mentorship to members, emerging communicators, and young Africans seeking to develop their voice and leadership potential.

4. Speaking & Representation: Accept reasonable invitations to deliver keynotes, host masterclasses, chair panels, or represent the Institute at conferences, public events, and institutional engagements.

5. Participation in Institute Activities: Actively participate in the Institute’s flagship programs, annual investiture ceremony, summits, and events where the presence of Fellows is required, subject to reasonable notice.

6. Complete at least one (1) mandatory course offered by the Institute per membership year

C. FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP

7. Endowment Fund Contribution: Make a meaningful contribution to the AIPSCE Endowment Fund as part of the responsibilities of Fellowship.

8. Annual Fellowship Dues: Pay annual Fellowship dues as prescribed by the Institute’s governing council, to support operational sustainability and program delivery.

9. Resource Mobilization: Where possible, support the Institute in mobilizing financial resources, grants, partnerships, or sponsorships from networks within the Fellow’s sphere of influence.

D. ADVOCACY & BRAND PROMOTION

10. Institutional Advocacy: Promote the Institute through every available channel — social media, professional networks, industry associations, government relations, media appearances, and public discourse.

11. Values Ambassadorship: Uphold and exemplify the Institute’s core values of Excellence, Integrity, African Identity, and Communication Transformation in all public and professional conduct.

12. Referral & Recruitment: Actively refer qualified professionals, organizations, and institutions for membership, partnership, or collaboration with the Institute.