Kidderminster Soroptimists are calling for budding young public speakers to enter the 10th Public Speaking Competition organised by the Midland Arden Region Soroptimists on Saturday 24 March 2012 to be held at the Dudley Council Chambers, Priory Road, Dudley. An invitation has been extended to local schools to encourage students aged 14-18 years to participate and be sponsored by the Kidderminster Soroptimist Club.

The overall aim of the competition is to foster presentation and communication skills in young students. It aims to develop self confidence and personality and to encourage young people to play a more prominent part in public life.

There is a prize of £150 for the overall winner plus a trophy to be held in the school for one year. There is a second prize of £75 and a third of £25. Each participant will receive a certificate of achievement and a £25 book voucher from their sponsoring club.

This year there are 12 diverse topics offered such as 'Why modern music isn't rubbish despite what my dad says'; 'How technology has changed my life'; 'Do we have a fair taxation system'; 'Is honesty always the best policy'; 'In order to get respect....'; and 'Should euthanasia be made legal'.

In recent years, Kidderminster Soroptimists have sponsored winning contestants and Joint President Stephanie Ainsley believes this is a temendous opportunity for local young people to showcase their public speaking skills and the Club would be delighted to sponsor participants. The closing date is Wednesday 15 February and further details can be obtained from Mrs Stephanie Ainsley on 01562 632 889 or by email at kidderminstersorop@gmail.com.