About the TiPS Program:
The Telling it with Pride Speakers (TiPS) Program is now in its third year! The program is designed to empower LGBTIQA+ individuals to share their personal stories with confidence and impact. Through a three‑month training program, participants receive tailored support in storytelling, public speaking, and audience engagement. Graduates will have the opportunity to join the VPC’s LGBTIQA+ Speakers Bureau, amplifying voices across Victoria to promote understanding, empathy, and inclusion.
- Open to LGBTIQA+ individuals across Victoria, with a strong encouragement for folks from regional, and rural areas to apply.
- Inclusive of diverse backgrounds such as First Nations Peoples, Transgender and Gender Diverse communities, CALD individuals, people with disability, and various age groups.
- Accessible to participants from all parts of Victoria with workshops in-person.
- This program is free for participants. Financial support/reimbursement for travel will be available for eligible participants
“Thank you so much for everything TiPS this graduating year! It’s been an absolute pleasure to be involved, to connect with community and [the showcase] was just absolutely amazing.” – Stephanie Serret, 2025 TiPS Graduate
Download the TiPS Program Brochure
Key Dates:
- Initial Gathering: 27 October, 11am – 3pm: the Initial Gathering on 27th October is for everyone to meet, connect and get to know each other before the workshops. This first gathering is about learning what to expect and establishing a TiPS group culture.
- Workshop 1: 11 November, 11am – 3pm – Storytelling for Social Change
- Workshop 2: 17 November, 11am – 3pm – Self-Care and Community Care for Storytellers
- Workshop 3: 23 November, 11am – 4pm – Public Speaking and Presentation Skills
- Workshop 4: 1 December, 11am – 3pm – Media and Digital Storytelling
- Rehearsals: There are two rehearsals before the TiPS graduate showcase during Midsumma Program at the Victorian Pride Centre. Dates for the rehearsals and VPC’SUMMA Showcase will be announced upon acceptance to the program. The rehearsals will be group-led, with a VPC representative present to guide the process.
EOIS Open in August.
If you prefer, you may also record your EOI responses. Please send your video submission to programs@pridecentre.org.au and ensure all questions in the EOI are answered within the video.
What the TiPS Program Offers:
Empowerment and Skill Development
- Storytelling Workshops: Learn how to craft and share your personal narrative in a compelling and impactful way.
- Public Speaking Training: Gain techniques for engaging an audience, managing public speaking anxiety, and using body language and voice effectively.
- Media and Digital Storytelling: Explore how to use digital platforms, podcasting, and social media to advocate for social change.
- Resilience and Self-Care: Develop emotional resilience and learn self-care practices to support your journey as a public speaker.
Professional Opportunities
- Speakers Directory: Upon completing the TiPS Program, you will be featured in the Victorian Pride Centre’s Speakers Directory, connecting you with organisations, schools, and community groups for paid speaking engagements.
- Networking: Build connections with other LGBTIQA+ individuals, industry professionals, and key organisations involved in the program.
Personal Growth and Community Impact
- Confidence: Increase your confidence in public speaking and storytelling, empowering you to share your story with diverse audiences.
- Visibility: Amplify your voice and contribute to greater visibility and understanding of LGBTIQA+ experiences in Victoria.
- Support Network: Benefit from ongoing support and emotional support from the program’s facilitators and fellow participants.
Structured Program
- Workshops: Participate in regular workshops sessions to continuously build your skills and receive support.
- Three-Month Duration: Engage in a structured workshop and training program over three months and an opportunity for a final presentation as part of our Midsumma 2026 program at VPC.
- At the completion of the program, TiPS Graduates will be uploaded to the LGBTIQA+ Speakers Bureau for the opportunity to engage in external speaking engagements.
Check out the 2025 TiPS Graduates here and explore the LGBTIQA+ Speakers Bureau to book a speaker.
Please note: The TiPS Program is a free workshop series and follows an equity model. Please ensure you’re available for all dates. Each session builds on the last. The VPC receives a high volume of applications. If you can’t attend every workshop, please let us know prior – it won’t hinder your application, though we prioritise applicants who are available for all program dates.
The RISE in PRIDE Program is proudly supported by the DFFH LGBTIQA+ Sector Strengthening Grant
Header image courtesy of Alec Farrow.