WWHS student secures spot in Rotary Public Speaking Competition final

Wee Waa High School student Ayisha Titimira is set to make waves in the coastal town of Coffs Harbour next month when she delivers her engaging and impressive speech at the Rotary Public Speaking Competition final set to be held on November 22 and 23 as part of the annual Rotary District Showcase.

The recently appointed WWHS vice-captain won over the judges at the semi-finals of the Rotary Public Speaking Competition held in Tamworth, securing a spot in the final.

It was a competitive field of articulate, captivating and confident speakers, with eight finalists representing different groups of clubs from the Rotary district 9660, which covers a large portion of northern NSW including towns from Newcastle to Dubbo and Bourke.

Local group Wee Waa Rotaract is sponsoring the star student’s public speaking endeavours and she is also being supported by Narrabri Rotary.

As a practice run, Ayisha presented her speech to the Rotary club of Narrabri at their meeting last week. Ayisha’s speech focused on youth issues and she was asked by Rotary members about her motivation for public speaking – she said it was so she could ‘speak for those in society who have no voice, highlighting the young student’s passion for advocacy.

Joining Wee Waa High School student Ayisha Titimira in the final are students from Quirindi High School, Coonabarabran High School, and Gloucester High School.

“Ayisha has only been in Australia since March and English is her second language, which makes her success even more amazing,” added Wee Waa High School’s learning and support teacher Carmel Schwager who has accompanied and supported Ayisha at the public speaking events. She previously lived in Zimbabwe.

WWHS teacher Gaye Devoy and relieving principal Nichole Maloy also attended the Tamworth semi-final. Other locals such as Ethan Towns have also offered advice and support.

Local cluster coordinator and Rotarian Kel Walls explained the competition is based on students preparing and delivering a five-minute speech on a topic of their own choosing and giving a two-minute impromptu speech.

“The standard this year has been exceptionally good,” said Mr Walls.

“One comment that I’ve found is the topics that the students are choosing would not have appeared years ago, but the topics they’re tackling show the confidence and outgoing nature of students and how they’re switched on with world issues and want to change the world

“It’s an interesting window on the thoughts of some of our better students. Some of the topics can be pretty heavy …mental health, prejudice, impact of growing up in a digital age. The topics are ones that students care about and feel strongly about.”