A LANGLEY School pupil became the first Solihull pupil in 20 years to win a regional public speaking competition.
Aoife McNamara was crowned winner of the Soroptimist’s Midland Arden Regional Public Speaking Competition.
She spoke for four minutes on her chosen topic, ‘Artificial Intelligence – friend or foe?’.
The competition was held in Bromsgrove, with ten students from across the region taking part.
Aoife was awarded a prize cheque for £150 and the Midland Arden Trophy. All participants were presented with a £25 book token.
Aoife said: “I am absolutely delighted to have had the opportunity to compete in the Solihull Soroptimist Regional Public Speaking Competition. It was a wonderful experience and I thoroughly enjoyed discovering more about the topic of Artificial Intelligence.”
The Soroptimists held the event for thise aged 14 to 18 to challenge themselves to present engaging presentations to a judging panel.
This year’s panel was led by Catherine Williamson, Past President of the National Speakers Association.
Another Solihull student competed, Labib Zaman from Tudor Grange Academy.
The Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Diana Holl-Allen, said: “It is wonderful to see our young, bright Solihull students challenging themselves in such a competition.
“It can be difficult to speak to an audience, especially while being judged.
“I’ve had experience of public speaking for many years, so I know how tough it can be.
“Aoife did a fantastic job and should be proud of herself.
“We are fortunate to have such talented young people in Solihull – I heard that the judges were amazed by their performances.”
