Public speaking is a concept that intimidates most, regardless of one’s age.
The thought of standing before a crowd and delivering not only a prepared speech, but also responding without notice to two impromptu questions, is enough to make many panic.
A morning composed of consultation with a panel of enquiring judges, including giving opinions on particular local, national and international affairs, to an evening of ‘thinking on your feet’ and passionate speech delivery, it’s safe to say there was a significant sense of challenge in the Lions Youth of the Year competition.
Thanks to the support and encouragement of the Tewantin Noosa Lions Club, Year 12 student Alexandra von Homeyer from Good Shepherd Lutheran College not only accepted this challenge but excelled. Alexandra was successful at both the Local and Regional levels of the competition, recently travelling to Bargara to represent her region at the District level.
Head of Senior Years Joanna Foley said, “Good Shepherd has a proud history with the Lions Youth of the Year and the Tewantin Noosa Lions Club.”
“Our captains are always eager to step up and test their communication skills. The importance of public speaking cannot be underestimated, it develops confidence, enhances leadership qualities, and allows young people to express their ideas clearly and connect meaningfully with others. These are skills that will serve them well throughout life.”
Tewantin Noosa Lions Club Youth of the Year Coordinator Steve Whitter said, “The Lions Youth of the Year has been running for over 60 years and is open to school students aged 15 and over and under 19 years of age.”
“It’s a prestigious and demanding competition, with students undergoing a comprehensive interview process that recognises their community involvement and personal achievements, something the Lions Club
values deeply.
“As a club, we truly enjoy listening to the high-calibre speeches and celebrating the achievements of young people in our community. This competition gives us the chance to meet local school leaders and follow their progress, not only through the competition but beyond graduation. It was an absolute pleasure to travel to Pomona for the Regional event and then to Bargara to watch Alexandra compete in the District finals. While her Youth of the Year journey may have ended at the District level, I have no doubt she gained invaluable experience and personal growth along the way.”
Each stage of the competition—from local to district level—was a step up from the last, encapsulating a range of new challenges, competitors and lessons to be learnt.
Alexandra said, “I couldn’t have possibly understood the value of the competition until I got involved. Meeting people with genuine interest in real world issues and topics was so refreshing and has only further motivated me to keep talking into the future as there are people who want to listen.”
