Delighted to offer opinions
By David Bin, Year 12, St Stephen’s College, Mareeba
I WAS honoured to compete in the state finals of the 2018 Lions Youth of the Year in Rockhampton last month.
The competition process included an interview with a judging panel, two impromptu speeches and a five-minute prepared speech.
The interview and impromptu questions were concerned with involvement within the community, as well as a wide range of social issues concerning Queensland, Australia and our global relations with other countries.
My topic for the prepared speech was overcoming challenges. I competed against students from the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Central Queensland.
The Lions Youth of the Year program gave me the chance to express my personal opinions about a broad range of issues in front of more than 150 people. It was an opportunity I am truly grateful for.
Being able to also listen to the opinions of my fellow contestants provided me with a positive outlook for the future of our society.
The experience has been extremely rewarding, as it has given me the confidence to be able to strive towards new achievements.
Since my first Lions Youth of the Year victory at the club judging level, the Mareeba Lions Club have been behind me all the way. I have been touched by the ongoing support they have dedicated to me.
The club is an amazing group of people who give a lot of their time to the community. I would highly recommend anyone to give the program a go, it is brilliant.
I am also extremely thankful for the support of the teachers and community at St Stephen’s College.
I appreciate the comments and letters of support. It has meant a great deal to me.
I would like to wish Riley Clarke, the overall state winner, the best of luck for the national finals.