Article by Ms Karen Lindsey, Assistant Principal Learning, Innovation and Pathways

The Lions Youth of the Year competition has been running across Australia for more than 40 years and is well-known as one of the most prestigious competitions for young people. Fostering leadership and public speaking skills, as well as celebrating the community-mindedness of youth, this annual competition invites young leaders in their senior years of schooling to put themselves forward as a role model of their generation. The competition culminates in a National Final which this year will be held in Darwin towards the end of April, but in order to get to there, students must continue through multiple rounds.

And it’s no easy feat!

Firstly, students wishing to nominate complete a comprehensive application form wherein they outline their contributions to their local community through volunteering or service; their participation in sport, cultural activities, music and/or public speaking; and their leadership experience and academic achievements. This form is submitted to their local Lions club. Next, students engage in a panel interview with three judges who, through further questioning, establish the student’s dedication to their community and their strengths as young leaders. Finally, students test their courage by competing in the public speaking section. In front of an audience of up to 100 people, students are first met with two impromptu questions which they must answer coherently and fluently within two minutes each - a tough ask for even the most seasoned debater or public speaker! Following this, each student delivers a five-minute prepared speech on a topic of their choice. If successful over their peers at Club level, the student moves on to the Regional, then District, then State Final before progressing to the National Final. Each round follows the same format.

Proudly, St James enters the best of our Year 12 leaders every year into Lions Youth of the Year. In 2023, we were proud to put forward our College Captains and Vice-Captains, as well as one of our Hogan House Captains.

It goes without saying, that all five of them did us very proud.

Hogan House Captain, Kyan Moore competed via the Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club. Kyan was an absolute joy to watch as he spoke so confidently and fluently for the impromptu questions and then delivered a stirring speech about the detrimental effects of social media on his generation. Unfortunately, he was beaten by another of the contestants but the quality of all four students involved was of such a high standard that most in the audience were exclaiming that they really couldn’t pick a winner.

Shakinah Faialaga and Nahed Adam competed through the Teneriffe Lions Club. The global advocacy lens through which St James sees the world was clearly on display as Shakinah spoke of the importance of charity and volunteer work in the 21st century, and Nahed implored the audience to take action to combat the horrific incarceration rates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Both young women were inspirational.

Angus Green and Remy Mukendi competed at the Ipswich Lions Club in early March, speaking exceptionally well on a very hot day. Each breezed through the impromptu questions so it was down to their prepared speeches. While Remy shared his inspirational story of coming to Australia as a refugee, speaking of his desire and dedication to chasing his dream to be a professional footballer, Angus presented his passionate views on why we should change the date of Australia Day. Both young men were exceptional, but it was Angus who progressed through to the Regional Final.

Further, Angus competed in the Regional Round at Lowood Lions Club. Coming up against students from Lowood SHS, Centenary SHS, QASMT, and Toogoolawah SHS, Angus was incredibly impressive in all aspects of the competition. Speaking to an audience of about 60 people, he was confident, well-spoken and fluent; he represented St James with pride. Coincidentally, one of his rivals was a team member from the opposition in a recent QDU debate! All contestants were visibly supportive of each other and all were really outstanding. Although Angus didn't move on to the District Round, he is to be commended on his composure, courage and sportsmanship.

It’s easy to see why these five young people are our College Leaders. It has been a great pleasure to watch them grow in confidence and skill in terms of their public speaking ability throughout the preparation for Lions Youth of the Year. Australia is in good hands with young leaders like these coming through the ranks.