South Otago High School’s hall and library were the arenas for Balclutha Rotary Club’s annual speech competition, where judges allotted points for research, structure and persuasion, body language and delivery for 3-4 minute speeches covering topics including sports, cell phones, artificial intelligence, working from home and live animal export.
Zoe Ludemann drew on her own experience to deliver a victorious and authoritative argument for why all school pupils should be required to play organised sport, while the engaging confidence of Matthew Brook (cellphones) and Honor Phillips (climate change) also put them on the year 8 podium.
Julianna Bawi discussed the balance of responsibility between governments and individuals for climate change to take the year 7 first place trophy, followed by spirited presentations from Juno Allen (cell phones) and Lola Bradfield (sports).
"One of Rotary’s areas of focus is supporting education and literacy," convener Donna Buxton said.
"I know from having to speak when I was Rotary president, I feel more confident about it now.
"It’s good the schools put students forward and shows how far young people are willing to go in areas beyond sports.
"This is their opportunity to get practice and encouragement because confidence in public speaking can lead to avenues like theatre, politics and leadership roles."
Public speaking is regularly listed as many people’s greatest fear but this year’s competition had one of the best turnouts in its near 50-year history, as 39 bold youngsters took the floor.
