M-T1-YS-11 · Theme 1 · Youth & Schools
Youth Public Speaking Competition
Builds confident, evidence-based speaking through fair heats and useful feedback, without rewarding privilege, inflammatory content or polished performance alone.
What could this idea change?
Young people learn to research, reason and communicate respectfully on issues that matter locally.
A simple way to start
- Co-design themes and a rubric that balances reasoning, clarity and respectful engagement. Who could lead it: Competition convenor
- Invite schools and collect minimum-entry information through approved channels. Who could lead it: School liaison
- Train adjudicators, test timing and confirm accessibility adjustments privately. Who could lead it: Chief adjudicator
- Run heats and final with school supervision and consistent conditions. Who could lead it: Stage manager
- Return written feedback, announce results and connect participants to further speaking opportunities. Who could lead it: Adjudication coordinator
What should we look for?
- Schools and eligible speakers participating.
Before we say yes
- Does it fit a real local need?
- Can people take part safely and fairly?
- Are the facts, permissions and Rotary branding right?
- Who will lead it, and when will we review it?