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Young Voices Shine: Lessons from Kirkcudbright's Youth Speaks Competition

Update Celebrating Young Voices: Kirkcudbright's Youth Speaks Competition In a vibrant showcase of talent and courage, the Cochran Hall at Kirkcudbright Academy became the stage for this year’s Youth Speaks Competition, an event that has inspired students since its inception in 1982. Organized by the Academy’s dedicated geography teacher, Miss McEwen, and sponsored by the Kirkcudbright Rotary Club, this competition provides a unique platform for pupils to express their thoughts on pressing societal issues as well as personal interests. A Platform for Diverse Topics The enthusiasm among participants was palpable as eleven pupils from S1 upwards took to the stage to present their speeches to a supportive audience. Topics ranged from the controversial debates surrounding “Euthanasia vs Assisted Dying” to the thought-provoking “Progression of Women in Agriculture.” Each speaker poured their heart and intellect into crafting well-researched presentations that not only informed but also stirred emotions, evidenced by the audience's reactions. Recognizing Achievement and Participation Judging the event was a panel composed of knowledgeable figures including Miss J Collins from the Academy and community members, who faced the tough task of scoring these passionate appeals. Rotarian Gordon Cowan reflected on the exceptional quality of the talks, appreciating the confidence and articulation exhibited by the students. The winners were announced amidst supportive cheers: the junior section winners included Loic MacArthur, Fiona Arnold-Neil, and Ben-Levi Welby, while Max McFarlane, Hazel Dempster, and Isla Dodds took top honors in the senior category. The Rotary Club’s Role in Community Engagement The Kirkcudbright Rotary Club’s commitment to youth development was underscored during the award presentation by Rotary president Richard Haslam-Jones. He didn't just hand out prizes but highlighted the importance of such initiatives in fostering public speaking skills among young people. These experiences are vital for personal growth, especially in an era where effective communication can significantly impact one’s future career and community involvement. A Community Celebration The event wasn’t just about competition; it was a celebration of community spirit. Senior pupils took an active role in serving refreshments, enhancing the warm, community atmosphere that the event fostered. Gavin Scott, the MC for the night, wrapped up the event with a heartfelt thank you to all participants and a special acknowledgment of the collective effort put into organizing the competition. Lessons Beyond the Stage Participating in competitions like Youth Speaks nurtures valuable life skills in young individuals, such as critical thinking, public speaking, and confidence. These skills bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, preparing students for future endeavors. With an audience filled with supporters, the event underscored the importance of finding one's voice and using it effectively to discuss ideas that matter. Looking Ahead: Future Opportunities for Young Speakers As we reflect on this inspiring event, it is hopeful to think about the future opportunities that lie ahead for these budding speakers. Engaging in discussions around significant issues not only helps in personal development but also contributes to building a more informed populace. The Youth Speaks competition is just one of many Rotary initiatives ensuring that young people in our community continue to step forward and make their voices heard. Miss McEwen’s tireless efforts in guiding students and the ongoing support from the Rotary community are pivotal in shaping confident young leaders equipped for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. We commend all participants for their remarkable contributions to this annual celebration of youth empowerment. For anyone inspired by the stories of these young speakers, now is the time to connect with local Rotary initiatives or consider how you can contribute to encouraging youth engagement in your own community.