Southwestern Ontario District of Optimist International
Oratorical Contest
"How to Change the World with Optimism."
is the topic for the 2023-24 school year.
For more information, please contact
District Chair Hannah Symington
Since its start in 1928, the Optimist Oratorical contest has become the longest-running program sponsored by Optimist International. The contest is designed for youth to gain experience in public speaking and provide them with the opportunity to compete for a college scholarship.
Each Optimist Club will judge the local students’ speeches based on content and presentation to determine the top winners. SWONT’s top two contestants in finals will be awarded a trophy from the district and a $2,500 scholarship from Optimist International. The district winner will go on to compete in the international competition.
Interested students should prepare a 4-to-5 minute speech on the assigned topic to be presented at their local Optimist Club’s contest. The speeches are judged at the Club level, Zone level and Regional (if needed) and finally at the District level. Members of the public who wish to enter the Optimist Oratorical contents must do so by contacting their local Optimist Club.
2023-2024 When and Where
Dates & Time: TBA
Registration: TBA