Lena Wildhirt

Can you introduce yourself ?

My name is Lena Wildhirt. I was born in Germany and grew up in Switzerland. I’ve always been inspired by art and human connection, so I studied cultural science and sociology and also worked for NGOs for four years before finding my way back to theatre.

To be honest, I was really afraid of letting go of the linear plan I had in mind for my life and diving into the so‑called mean and competitive industry. But I am so glad to have found a place where, right now, it is about community, co‑creation, and craft much more than competition.

Can you explain what the Eloquence Contest was about?

The Eloquence Contest focuses on the art of language and public speaking. We were given a critical question and asked to defend a certain opinion, with the possibility to perform in either French or English, over the course of three rounds. The key point is not to persuade someone, but to convince them. It is about finding the right arguments, creating a narrative, and connecting with the listeners.

How did you prepare mentally and emotionally before stepping on stage?

I mainly listened to the speeches of my colleagues, because they genuinely interest me. Also, truly listening often makes you a better speaker. Then it was about getting out of my head and into my body, and therefore into the present moment.  

The trick to overcoming fear and nervousness is not to think about yourself, but about the message. Self‑awareness and projection into the future are where fear comes from. Instead, trust the work you have done and focus on the reason you are there: the story, the message. Make space for them and shine a light on that.

What did this experience teach you about yourself as a speaker?

I think I learned three things:

1. I am at the right school, where many things are happening — and not in a mean or competitive way, but in a supportive one. We had extra classes, met up to prepare together, and welcomed experts from outside. I also met other inspiring students who are motivated and deeply invested.

2. I received personal feedback after the first round that I am very down‑to‑earth on stage and that I bring a certain energy into the room. Hearing this made me really happy, and I will keep it in my back pocket for the future.

3. Personally, I learned that the space of trust in the present moment is sometimes hard to access, but it is there — and I will be able to find it.

Has participating in this contest changed the way you express your ideas?

Not specifically in the way I express my ideas, but more in the way I engage with opinions and debates. I noticed myself asking more critical questions, and with everything happening in the world today — technology, multiculturalism, conflicts — I think it is even more important to step into someone else’s shoes and see what meaning they find in the world, just as it was important to think from my opponent’s perspective during the competition.

What advice would you give to someone who is afraid of public speaking?

Don’t be afraid of your audience: they actually want to listen to you. And most importantly, kill your ego — it has no place on stage.

> Learn more about the school life at Cours Florent  

Interview conducted in 2025.