Diane Smith
Diane (Di) Smith is a communication specialist, facilitator, executive coach and actor with extensive experience helping professionals develop confidence, presence and influence. A graduate of NIDA’s Acting program, Di has built a career spanning performance, teaching, coaching and professional development. Throughout her career she has combined the disciplines of acting, storytelling and human connection to help individuals communicate more effectively and authentically in a wide range of professional settings.
Following her graduation from NIDA, Di enjoyed a successful career across theatre, television and presenting, including a long-running role in A Country Practice, work with Sydney Theatre Company, stage productions ranging from Shakespeare to music theatre, and television presenting for The Great Outdoors. These experiences developed the communication, adaptability and audience engagement skills that continue to underpin her facilitation work today.
As a facilitator and coach with NIDA Corporate, Di has worked extensively with clients across both the public and private sectors, delivering programs in communication, presentation, facilitation and leadership development. Drawing on NIDA’s performance-based methodologies, she helps professionals strengthen their vocal presence, build confidence under pressure and communicate with greater clarity, influence and impact. She is known for creating supportive learning environments where participants feel safe to experiment, practise and develop new skills.
Alongside her corporate work, Di has taught extensively through NIDA Open, NIDA Corporate and other acting and training institutions. Her longstanding association with NIDA reflects a deep commitment to helping people realise their potential, whether they are performers, facilitators, leaders or emerging professionals. Combining warmth, practical insight and decades of experience, Di empowers individuals to communicate with authenticity, confidence and purpose.
What our clients said
“The course tutor was great. Relatable, practical and felt like a safe space. The content was excellent and is something that will help us get better. I especially liked how the day unfolded; step by step we did exercises and practice and then we brought all of these things together at the end of the day.“
