STUDENTS from three Thurrock schools topped the winners' rostrum after a recent public speaking competition.

Earlier this month students, teachers, friends, family members and supporters gathered at Benfleet's Appleton School for the Thurrock & Castle Point regional final of Jack Petchey's Speak Out Challengel, the UK's largest youth public speaking competition.

The evening was packed with original and insightful ideas from many young speakers.

After an evening of inspiring speeches and fierce competition, Georgia Wilde, representing Ockendon Harris Academy was crowned regional champion.

Dara Ade-Oduwale, representing Grays Convent High School, was runner-up, while Charlie Sadler, representing St Clere's School in Stanford-le-Hope secured third place.

Georgia said: "If you ever get the opportunity to do the Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge, take it! Speak up about what you are passionate about!", while Dara added: "If you believe, you can achieve."

The event celebrated the confidence, creativity and courage of young people from across Thurrock and Castle Point, with finalists delivering powerful speeches on a wide range of topics.

The audience also heard from Cllr Barry Campagna, Mayor of Castle Point, who reflected on the importance of opportunities like Speak Out Challenge! for young people.

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He said: "The older generation didn't have opportunities like this, but as you go through life, you realise how important they are.

"I was just an ordinary person, yet I ended up becoming Mayor—and I'd never had any training, so I found it quite challenging.

"That's why giving young people this kind of experience and support is so valuable; it will make a real difference for them as they move forward in life.

"Thank you very much."

The finalists were judged by a panel including:

• Emma Robinson, USA Today Bestselling Author
• Cat Wright, Community Engagement Officer at Taylor Woodrow Construction
• Sel Sanger, Youth Participation Lead for Essex County Council
• Sally Carr, Alderman at Southend City Council
• Brian Beggs, Vice Chair for Send The Right Message
• Susannah Dutton, High Sheriff of Essex
• Tamaraemoemi Olanrewaju, Jack Petchey's Speak Out Challenge Regional Final Runner Up, 2024-25

Jack Petchey Foundation's Speak Out Challenge! is delivered in partnership with the Speakers Trust and works with thousands of young people every year to build confidence, communication skills and self-expression through public speaking.

It is is the largest public speaking event of its kind in the world. Now in its 20th year, more than 35,000 Year 10 students annually compete for more than £12,000 worth of prizes.