Soroptimist International is a world wide volunteer service organisation for business and professional women. In 1981, Soroptimists in Ireland introduces a Public Speaking competition for second level girls. It is a 3 tier competition, held at Local, Regional and National level.There is a choice of topics for teh competition. Each contestant chooses one topic and she carries this topic through to teh Regional heat and National final, if she qualifies for either or both.

The aims of the competition are:i

• To encourage girls to play a more prominent part in public life.

• To improve the art of communication

• To encourage girls to develop the skill to speak effectively and to articulate with clarity.

• To develop self-confidence and personality.

Topics are based on the Programme Areas identified by Soroptimist International:

• Economic Empowerment.

• Education.

• Environmental Sustainability.

• Food Security and Healthcare.

• Violence and Conflict Resolution.

Participants should be second level students in 4th., 5th., or 6th. year .

The aims of the competition are:i

• To encourage girls to play a more prominent part in public life.

• To improve the art of communication

• To encourage girls to develop the skill to speak effectively and to articulate with clarity.

• To develop self-confidence and personality.