Speaking out at Rotary event
Ayr and Alloway Rotary Clubs welcomed schools from the area to take part in their annual public speaking competition.
The Youth Speaks event is open to teams of three entered by schools, colleges or youth groups, who are in full time education, and aged 11 to 18.
President Harry Peters said: “Youth Speaks is one of the jewels of the Rotary crown and has tremendous benefits for the individuals taking part by developing their skills and confidence to speak in public.
“We are always amazed at the high standards achieved by all the young people involved. The scheme is supported by many schools in our district and we are keen to promote it more and more each year.”
Each team consists of a chairperson, a speaker and a proposer of the vote of thanks.
There is no set theme for Youth Speaks and the subject matter for the presentation is decided by each competing team.
The next stage is the district event, which is being held in the Pollokshaws Burgh Halls, Glasgow, in February, with the regional finals in May.
In conjunction with the Rotary Club of Alloway, the Rotary Club of Ayr held their intermediary and seniors heat in Belmont Academy, at which Wellington School were winners in both categories with speeches on You Cannae Shove Yer Grannie Aff a Bus and Be Proud of Your Roots.
However, it was a clear cut decision. While the intermediaries level was uncontested, Belmont, Kyle and Carrick gave astounding performances.
Belmont Academy, the runners up, wowed the packed auditorium with I’m So Bored. The 21st Century Condition, while Kyle Academy delivered a first class presentation on Allegory in Literature, and Carrick Academy gave a high powered presentation to a riveted audience on Death to Political Correctness. All displayed an ability which many a Rotarian would envy.
Ayr president Harry Peters presented the winners’ trophy to the Wellington team.
Youth Speaks convenor Colin Vooght offered an encouraging vote of thanks to the youngsters.