Collingwood Students Are Tops at 2004 World Public Speaking Championships!

Congratulations to Collingwood’s world-class speakers, Sarah Mortazavi and Shakir Rahim, and their coach, English teacher Julia Clarke, who attended the 2004 World Public Speaking Championships last week in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Sixteen-year-old Sarah captured the world title after judges placed her first overall in the four-day competition, which involved 52 contestants from around the world. In her final presentation, the Grade 11 student delivered her speech under the vast dome of the State Capitol building, and received a standing ovation.

Shakir finished 15th overall, an impressive showing for the Grade 9 student, who participated in a field largely comprised of 17 and 18-year-old Grade 12 students. At 14, Shakir was the second youngest competitor, and the youngest trophy winner by two years.

Sarah’s season might not be over yet. She and fellow student, John Menzies, will represent B.C. in upcoming try-outs for the 2005 World Championships in Debating.