Birmingham and Coventry Speak Out Challenge Final

The Speak Out Challenge

The Speak Out Challenge is a programme designed to develop young people's confidence and communication skills, giving them the opportunity to speak out on issues they care about.

1000 young people across Birmingham, Solihull and Coventry schools have taken part in the Speak Out Challenge 2022-23 with a full day public speaking workshop. The event's speakers are all Year 10s who have progressed to the final with their phenomenal speeches.

“It was such an adrenaline rush! I enjoyed the whole experience, the other contestants were amazing, so supportive and we all got along really well. Public speaking is a really necessary skill to master, and it will be very useful later on in life and even now!" Imogen Burstow, West Midlands Champion 2022

The Event

Up to 18 finalists will speak out in front of a crowd with an original speech that highlights their unique perspectives and passions. Each speech will last between 1.5 and 3 mins, and there will also be some live entertainment halfway through the evening.

Speeches will be judged by a panel of VIPs from a wide range of sectors and the evening will conclude with an awards ceremony, celebrating young voices from across the region, and crowning the Birmingham and Coventry Speak Out Champion 2023!

“It’s been a wonderful evening. The students spoke with such passion and commitment on a diverse range of interesting and challenging subjects... such talented individuals and potential leaders of the future.” Preet Kaur Gill, MP for Birmingham Edgbaston

The event is FREE.

Speakers Trust

Speakers Trust exists to unlock potential through the power of communication. Our vision is for every young person to be able to speak confidently and be heard. In academic year 2022-23, we are working with over 35,000 people across the UK, delivering the UK's largest youth public speaking competition.

In the West Midlands this year, we partnered with Skills Builder to further enable young people to gain the essential skills to succeed in life. The key skills gained within the programme are Speaking, Listening and Creativity. Skills Builder Partnership is a global movement of employers, educators, and impact organisations working together to ensure that one day, everyone builds the essential skills to succeed.

"The Speak Out Challenge equips students with the tools they need to present themselves and their opinions with confidence. It helps students to develop skills that they will use for the rest of their lives, and find confidence they never previously knew they had." West Midlands Teacher, 2022

Host or Publisher Speakers Trust