Wolverhampton youngsters prepare to take centre stage in public speaking contest

Around 20 children will showcase their speaking skills at Tettenhall College as part of a competition aimed at building confidence and communication skills

Around 20 young people from across Wolverhampton will take to the stage at Tettenhall College on Sunday, November 22 as part of the latest VoiceBOX Public Speaking Competition.

A young VoiceBOX participant takes to the stage during a previous public speaking competition in Wolverhampton. | ©Magical MC CIC

placeholder image — A young VoiceBOX participant takes to the stage during a previous public speaking competition in Wolverhampton. | ©Magical MC CIC

VoiceBOX, run by Magical MC CIC, currently supports around 70 young people every week across Wolverhampton, helping children aged 8–14 develop confidence, resilience and communication skills through public speaking, team activities and non-contact BoxFit.

For many of the young people taking part, standing in front of a live audience and delivering a prepared speech is a major personal achievement. The competition gives them something meaningful to work towards while helping them practise eye contact, body language, vocal delivery and the confidence to express their ideas clearly.

MP Warinder Juss, Councillor Obaida Ahmed and Councillor Jacqui Coogan attending a previous VoiceBOX Public Speaking Competition to support and celebrate the achievements of local young people. | ©Magical MC CIC

The Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Paul Singh, will be attending the event, alongside invited local councillors, families, judges and supporters.

Founder Jin Atwal said: “Public speaking is about much more than standing on a stage. It teaches young people how to express themselves, communicate confidently and have the courage to step outside their comfort zone. These are skills they can take with them into school, interviews, employment and later life.”

The event will take place from 12pm–2.30pm at Tettenhall College.

VoiceBOX has supported more than 1,000 young people over the past five years and continues to provide affordable opportunities for children across Wolverhampton to develop confidence, resilience and communication skills.