Debating

Legacy Junior Public Speaking Award - Preliminary Final

On Monday, I had the pleasure of accompanying Sofia C as she competed in the Junior Legacy Public Speaking Award State Preliminary Final. With her support crew consisting of family and Regional Final Runner-Up, Sabrina C cheering her on, Sofia presented her prepared speech entitled ‘The Forgotten Australians’ . This speech discussed Indigenous soldiers and their contribution to Australia’s war efforts.

The second round saw all competitors grappling with the impromptu topic ‘Use it or lose it’. They all had five minutes to prepare a two-minute speech. Competitors drew connections to everything from ‘taking risks’ through to environmental concerns. Sofia’s speech, discussed both aforementioned areas and she even managed to reference inspirational leaders such as Elizabeth 1st.

Sofia was competing against 13 other Preliminary finalists for four places in the State Final. Students were representing a huge variety of schools including: Ivanhoe Grammar, Geelong College, Lauriston Girls’ School, Huntingtower School, Kew High School, Academy of Mary Immaculate and Warrnambool College.

Once again, Sofia demonstrated that Aitken College students are amongst some of the most talented public speakers across the State and I am thrilled to say that she was announced one of the four winners on the day. This means that she will be competing in the State Final on Monday 22 October at the Shrine of Remembrance. Well done Sofia!

Mrs Belinda Jarvis-Dymond

Public Speaking Coach