Public Speaking 2010-11 Winners

Sligo Students win 2011 Public Speaking Title

Students from Summerhill College, College Road, Sligo won this year’s National Public Speaking Project.  The final was held in the Edmund Burke Theatre, Trinity College, Dublin on Saturday 9^th April.

The judging panel praised all the students for their clear understanding of the subject, which was demonstrated by the concise content in their contributions and on their understanding of the topic.  The topic chosen for this year’s final was:

Our mistakes challenge us.

Our aspirations inspire us.

Our choices define us.

The team were supported by their families and friends and their teacher who assisted them throughout the project, Fr. Gerard Cryan and the Deputy Principle. Their prize is a trip to Brussels and the much coveted National perpetual trophy.

Commenting on the value of the event, Brian Howard, CEO of MHI, said: “By encouraging young people to research mental health issues, both nationally and in their own localities, we are developing more informed attitudes and helping to eradicate negative stigmas surrounding mental illness. The event is also playing a very important role in creating awareness among young people in the vital importance of developing positive mental health strategies at personal and community levels.”

To date, the project has delivered some very positive results, including an improvement in self-confidence among the students involved, a heightened awareness of mental health issues, increased career motivation and, most importantly, a sense of pride and achievement among all those involved.

Crucially, the project has engaged thousands of students to think more deeply about the issue of mental health problems, and has encouraged school and community participation in a subject that affects so many young people and their families living in Ireland.

In September we will launch the 31^st year of the Public Speaking Project. We would ask all volunteers, local MHAs and schools to continue to support this fantastic project. It is as important now as it has ever been.

Mental Health Ireland wishes to thank all the schools, teachers and students who have entered this year's project.  We are delighted with the interest in the project again this year with 172 teams entered and we trust that all involved will find it a rewarding experience.  We understand it takes a huge commitment to undertake such projects and MHI commend you for this and your support for Mental Health Ireland in building awareness of positive mental health.  Good luck and best wishes to all the teams!

Thanks also go to all involved with the organisation of the project locally and all who have volunteered their time to act as adjudicators, master of ceremonies, timekeepers, etc.

Some of the photos of the National Public Speaking Final 2011 are available in our photo gallery > click here

For more information on the National Public Speaking Project > click here