Regional Speech Contest
Attend this year's Regional Speech Contest!
August 9, 2026
9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Flato Markham Theatre
TICKETS ARE FREE!
Please note: Contestant registration is now closed. Register to be an audience member. TICKETS ARE FREE!
Attend the Regional Speech Contest
Join us for an inspiring event featuring powerful speeches, fresh perspectives, and talented speakers from across the region!
Hear Inspiring Ideas
Hear speakers explore meaningful topics, share personal experiences, and present solutions to real community challenges.
Support Young Speakers
Your presence creates an encouraging atmosphere and helps make the event more exciting for every contestant.
Experience the Competition
Watch contestants deliver speeches, engage audiences, and compete for recognition from the judges and attendees.
Audience Participation
Your Vote Matters!
You will not simply watch the competition. You will help shape the outcome.
Every registered attendee will be invited to vote for the speaker who made the strongest impression. The contestant with the most audience votes will receive the Audience Voting Award.
Listen closely, consider each message, and choose the speaker who inspired, challenged, or connected with you most.
What the Finalists Will Share
Inspired by the theme “Moments That Define Us”, finalists will share personal stories, meaningful lessons, and experiences that shaped who they are.
Their speeches may explore:
1
Describe a meaningful experience, challenge, or turning point that shaped you.
2
Share a belief, lesson, or value that matters to you.
3
Tell a story about a person, idea, or experience that influenced your growth.
Contest Format: Each finalist will deliver a 3–5 minute speech.
Previous Event Photos
Timeline
Begin your journey! Registration portal opens for all interested participants.
January 19, 2026
Registration Opens
Final deadline to submit your video recording (MP4) and written speech (PDF).
May 25, 2026
Submission Deadline
Finalists receive feedback
and coaching to refine their presentations. Ends July 27.
June 9, 2026
Preparation & Feedback
Last day to register for the contest. Make sure to submit your registration on time!
Registration Closes
January 19, 2026
Qualified candidates will be announced. Congratulations to all finalists!
Finalists Announcement
June 8, 2026
The big day! Showcase your speaking skills at Flato Theatre.
Contest Day
August 9, 2026
Judging Criteria
Our judges use a comprehensive framework to evaluate every aspect of your speech.
Excellence is achieved through the perfect balance of content, delivery, and impact.
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Delivery
Confidence
Speaker shows poise, assurance, and conviction.
Body Language
Gestures, expressions, and movement support the speech.
Voice Modulation
Effective pitch, tone, and pacing that engage listeners.
Content
Originality
Fresh, creative ideas that offer a unique perspective.
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Depth
Strong research and clear understanding of the topic.
Relevance
Content aligns with the category and audience.
Impact
Connection With Audience
Engages the audience and creates a strong response.
Overall Impression
Leaves a memorable and influential final impact.
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Emotional Appeal
Uses storytelling or rhetoric to evoke emotion.
Become a 2026 Community Sponsor
Interested in becoming a sponsor?
Download the Sponsorship Brochure!
Or view the preview!
Thank You to Our 2026 Sponsors!
Our Previous Community Partners
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FAQ
