Oratorical Contest

2025 Oratorical Contest

The Optimist International Oratorical Contest has become the longest-running program of Optimist International since its inception in 1928.  The contest is designed for young people to gain experience in public speaking and provide them with an opportunity to compete for multiple college scholarships with a pre-assigned topic.  Contact fanshaweoptimists@gmail.com for information.

Topic: How Optimism Has Guided Me Through Trying Times

Who: Youth under the age of 19 as of October 1, 2024 (and not enrolled as a degree seeking student of a post-secondary institution) in the United States, Canada or the Caribbean. There is no minimum age.  See the registration form for complete eligibility and contest rules.

When:  The club will host a club contest at a date and location to be determined in early 2025.

How To Enter: Contact Optimist Caroline Ge at fanshaweoptimists@gmail.com for more information.  Download your application form here.

2024 Oratorical Contest

The Optimist International Oratorical Contest has become the longest-running program of Optimist International since its inception in 1928.  The contest is designed for young people to gain experience in public speaking and provide them with an opportunity to compete for multiple college scholarships with a pre-assigned topic.  Contact caroline.ge03@gmail.com for information.

Topic: "How to Change the World with Optimism"

Who: Youth under the age of 19 as of October 1, 2023 (and not enrolled as a degree seeking student of a post-secondary institution) in the United States, Canada or the Caribbean. There is no minimum age.  See the registration form for complete eligibility and contest rules.

When:  The club will host a club contest at the Carling Heights Optimist building at 83 Elliott Street, London on Friday, March 1, 2024.  The doors will open at 630 pm and the contest will begin at 700 pm.  Family and friends are welcome to attend as guests.  A zone contest will be held on a date to be determined but no later than April 15 at a location to be determined.  The District contest will be held on Saturday, May 1, 202 in Waterloo, Ontario at Camp Heidelberg, 2001 Kressler Road at 100 pm.  

How To Enter: Contact Optimist Caroline Ge at caroline.ge03@gmail.com for more information.  Download your application form here.