Young Women’s Speech Contest 2026
Contest: Saturday 24th October 2026
Speak Up. Be Bold. Lead With Courage.
Application Deadline Countdown
(“Applications close on midnight 11h September 2026”)
A National Platform for Young Women Ready to Make a Difference
Are you a young woman aged 18–29 with ideas, passion, and a desire to create positive change?
The Young Women’s Speech Contest 2026 is your opportunity to share your voice, inspire others, and explore the power of leadership through public speaking.
Hosted by WFWP Ireland, this year’s theme invites participants to explore one of the most important questions of our time:
Compassion in Action - Small Acts that Create Big Change
Whether you’re an experienced speaker or stepping onto a stage for the first time, we encourage you to take part.
Register for your information pack today. Application deadline is midnight 11h September 2026.
Why This Contest Matters
The world needs courageous leaders.
Across communities, organisations, and nations, women are making a difference through compassion, conviction, and action.
This contest provides a platform for young women to:
Develop confidence in public speaking
Explore important leadership issues
Share their ideas with a wider audience
Inspire positive change
Connect with other aspiring leaders
Gain valuable experience and recognition
More than a competition, this is an opportunity to discover and strengthen your voice.
The Theme
Compassion in Action - Small Acts that Create Big Change
"Your voice is your soul in motion."
True transformation rarely begins with grand gestures, it starts quietly with the conscious choices we make in our homes, workplaces, and local communities.
What is a simple act of care, patience, or understanding you’ve witnessed or practiced within your own family or friend group or community?
How do these quiet, foundational habits prepare us to take on larger societal challenges in the future?
Participants are invited to explore how everyday empathy translates into real-world impact through a speech reflecting their own experiences, insights, and aspirations.
We highly encourage originality, authenticity, and thoughtful reflection.
Who Can Apply?
You are eligible to participate if you:
Are aged between 18 and 29 years old
Have an interest in leadership, social impact, or personal development
Are willing to prepare and deliver a speech on the contest theme
Can attend the event in person if selected
No previous public speaking experience is required. Guidance and mentorship will be provided to successful applicants before the contest.
We welcome students, young professionals, volunteers, community leaders, and aspiring changemakers from all backgrounds.
Event Details
Young Women’s Speech Contest 2026
Saturday 24th October 2026
13:00 GMT - 17:00 GMT
To be advised
Participants will present their speeches before a panel of judges and an audience of supporters, guests, and community leaders.
Prizes
Outstanding speakers will be recognised with the following awards:
🥇 First Place - €300
🥈 Second Place - €200
🥉 Third Place - €100
In addition to prizes, participants will gain valuable speaking experience, leadership development, and the opportunity to build lasting connections.
Ready To Share Your Voice?!
Leadership begins when someone has the courage to speak.
Your ideas matter.
Your perspective matters.
Your voice matters.
Join young women from across the country and take your place in a movement of courageous leadership.
Register for your information pack today. Application deadline is midnight 11h September 2026.
About WFWP
Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) is an international organisation dedicated to empowering women as leaders, peacebuilders, and changemakers.
Through education, service, and leadership initiatives, WFWP supports individuals and communities in creating a more peaceful and prosperous world.
The Young Women’s Speech Contest is part of our ongoing commitment to developing the next generation of female leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous public speaking experience?
No. Participants of all experience levels are welcome.
Is there a cost to enter?
Yes, all applicants are required to submit a non-refundable fee of €15.
How long should my speech be?
Full guidelines will be provided to shortlisted applicants.
Can international applicants apply?
Applicants should ensure they are able to attend the event in person if selected.
When will I hear back after applying?
Applications will be reviewed after submission, and shortlisted applicants will be contacted with further details.
Registered Address: Unity House, 19, North Great George's Street, Dublin 1
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