Public Speaking Contest

The Oratorical Contest is the longest-running Optimist International program. This contest is designed for young people to gain experience in public speaking . Our Club-level Oratorical contest is planned for March 4, 2023 and will be held following the public health guidelines at that time.

Check back in the fall for information regarding our 2023-2024 contest.

22-23_Oratorical_Application_46249 Download

Prepare and deliver a 4-5 minute speech on our 2023 topic: Discovering the Optimism within Me

First and Second place winners in our club contest can move on to compete for up to $22,500 in scholarships at the district, regional and international levels. Scholarships are funded by the Canadian Children’s Optimist Foundation.

Eligibility Criteria:
- Open to students under the age of 19 as of October 1, 2022 and who have not yet completed secondary school. There is no minimum age.
- Contestants are eligible to enter/compete in only one Optimist Oratorical contest during a contest year.
- Contestants who win 1st place at the Regional level are ineligible to compete in subsequent years.
Key Dates for 2023:
- February 25 (midnight) – Deadline to submit signed contest application form (by email or regular mail)
- March 3 – Deadline to submit a typed copy of speech (email)
- Saturday, March 4
  - Contest Day – Optimistically we are planning on hosting an in-person event, but we will be prepared if a virtual contest is required.
  - Winners provide copy of birth certificate or passport (required to move on to District level contest)
- Early April – Zone level contest
  - First and Second place finishers in club contest are eligible to compete in the Zone (Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge) contest.
- Early May – District level contest