The Oratorical Contest is the longest-running Optimist International program.
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This contest is designed for young people to gain experience in public speaking.
First conducted in 1928, this is the second most popular Optimist International Program. Nearly 2,000 clubs participate in this program each year. The winners at the Club level receive medallions and Zone winners receive a plaque. Districts have the opportunity to provide a first place scholarship of $2,500, a second place scholarship of $1,500, and a third place scholarship of $1,000.
Who can participate?
Who can participate?
The contest is open to contestants under the age of 19 as of October 1st of the current Optimist International contest year (October 1 – September 30) and who have not yet completed secondary school or its equivalent, including CEGEP students in Québec, Canada. There is no minimum age.
What does an entrant need to do?
What does an entrant need to do?
Entrants have to prepare and deliver a 4-5 minute speech on our 2025 topic: How Optimism Has Guided Me Through Trying Times.
First and Second place winners can move on to compete for up to $22,500 in scholarships at the district, regional, and international levels. Scholarships are funded by the Canadian Children’s Optimist Foundation.
How does someone become an entrant?
How does someone become an entrant?
The entrant will need to download and fill out the application form below.
When is the competition?
When is the competition?
MidWestern Ontario Optimist District Competition
May 3, 2025
Kirkton Woodham Community Centre
70497 Road 164
Kirkton, ON
2025 Optimist International Oratorical World Championships
July 17-18, 2025
Saint Louis University
St. Louis, Missouri, USA
Submission deadline
Submission deadline
All competitions must be complete and a signed contestant application and all forms must be submitted (by email or regular mail) to Sharon_flanagan@hotmail.com by March 27, 2025 at midnight.
Please ensure "Oratorical" is in the subject line.
Club Planning Information
Club Planning Information
Optimist International has a lot of prepared information for Optimist Members planning the contest. Check out the links below to get started.
Club Oratorical Planning Guide
District Oratorical Planning Guide
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