Speech inspired by school camp wins

Seven young speakers wowed an audience of family members, friends, teachers, students, and experienced toastmasters at the North Taranaki Schools Year 7 and 8 Students’ Speech Contest on Friday, October 28.

North Taranaki schools were invited to enter a year 7 or 8 student at this annual event hosted by Pukekura Toastmasters.

The contest has been running for 38 years and, as with every year, the calibre of speeches was outstanding. Passion and enthusiasm were evident as the students shared thought-provoking content and sprinkled touches of humour throughout the evening.

Topics ranged from school camp and music to climate change, voting, and the psychology of winning – enlightening the audience on the issues pertinent to year 7 and 8 students.

This year’s winner, with a speech titled School Camp, was Maisy Edwards from

Sacred Heart Girls’ College.

In second place was Terriah Reade from Mangorei School with Life with Two Sisters, and in third place, Tyla Schimanski from Norfolk School with What it Feels Like Being the Only Boy in My Netball Team.

‘‘We are extremely appreciative of the generous sponsorship received from Todd Energy and the Toi Foundation, with Todd Energy providing the venue for the fourth year running,’’ Pukekura Toastmasters Club president Wendy Smith said.

‘‘This contest offers an environment outside of school for students to gain experience in public speaking and presenting to a wider audience.

‘‘The Toastmasters’ brand is, Where Leaders are Made, and this event is an opportunity for Pukekura Toastmasters to give back to the community and support our future leaders. We are delighted to continue the tradition of this event and congratulate all entrants – the talent was exceptional.’’

SUPPLIED Winner Maisy Edwards, of Sacred Heart Girls College, centre, with second place-getter Terriah Reade, of Mangorei School, left, and Tyla Schimanski, of Norfolk School, who finished third.