2026 Public Speaking Contest
Contest Day
Aug 9, 2026
Please note this contest is open to Ontario, Canada residents only. Finalists must be able to travel independently and present in-person at the Flato Theatre in Markham.
About the Contest
Share valuable ideas that have the potential to make a positive and lasting impact on your community
Showcase Leadership
Demonstrate your leadership abilities through powerful public speaking and compelling ideas.
Engage Your Community
Connect with your audience on topics that matter and inspire positive change.
Make an Impact
Share ideas that have the potential to create lasting positive change in your community.
Timeline
Important Dates
Preliminary Round
Submission Details and Instructions
Submission Deadline: May 4th, 2026
Instructions
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Prepare your speech:
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Choose a topic that you are passionate about and that you believe will engage your community. Make sure the topic is relevant and meaningful to you. This will help you connect better with your audience.
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Record your speech (see below for Privacy Disclaimer)
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Record a video of yourself delivering your speech. Please avoid reading directly from a screen. Physical cue cards are fine, but make sure you maintain eye contact with the camera to engage your audience.
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Begin your video with a self-introduction:
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Your Name & Age
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City of Residence
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Why do you want to participate in this contest? (Share a brief personal reason for your interest)
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Submission formats:
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Video in MP4 format
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Written speech in PDF format
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Send both files to: tm@upluseducation.ca
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Special accommodations:
If you require any special accommodations, please contact us directly at tm@upluseducation.ca
Privacy Disclaimer:
Video submissions will be used solely for the preliminary round of the competition and will be accessible only to the designated preliminary judging panel and the U+ team. Following the announcement of finalists on June 8th, 2026, all video submissions of non-qualifying participants will be permanently deleted. Finalist video submissions will be deleted no later than August 9th, 2026.
Judging Criteria
To ensure a fair and comprehensive evaluation of participants' speeches, the Regional Speech Contest 2026 employs a robust set of judging criteria that considers various aspects of content, delivery, and overall impact. Judges will assess each participant based on the following criteria:
Content
Originality: The uniqueness and creativity of the speech content, showcasing novel ideas and perspectives.
Depth: The depth of research and analysis evident in the speech, demonstrating a well-rounded understanding of the topic.
Relevance: The speech's alignment with the chosen category and its relevance to the audience.
Delivery
Confidence: The speaker's level of self-assurance and poise on stage, conveying a sense of conviction in their message.
Voice Modulation: Effective use of pitch, tone, and pacing to enhance the overall delivery and captivate the audience.
Body Language: Awareness and purposeful use of gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to complement the spoken words.
Impact
Connection with the Audience: The ability to engage and connect with the audience emotionally, fostering a sense of resonance.
Emotional Appeal: The speech's capacity to evoke emotions, whether through storytelling, persuasion, or other rhetorical techniques.
Overall Impression: The lasting impression created by the speech, considering its memorability and influence.
Previous Event Photos
Get in Touch
Have any questions? Please use this form to contact us or email tm@upluseducation.ca and we'll get back to you as soon as possible!
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