National Public Speaking Competition in English
More than a competition, it is a journey. From local heats to county and regional rounds, students progress through each stage, supported by teachers and mentors who believe in the power of communication. The experience helps young people discover their voice, challenge ideas, and connect with others through dialogue.
About the competition
The National Public Speaking Competition in English is the oldest and most prestigious contest of its kind in Romania. Every year, thousands of students aged 8 to 20 take part across most counties in Romania, developing confidence, critical thinking, and the ability to speak with clarity and impact.
The winner in the 16–20 age group earns the unique opportunity to represent Romania at the International Public Speaking Competition (IPSC) in London, joining peers from over 50 countries. Since 1996, the competition has been at the heart of ESU Romania’s mission: to empower young voices and build the thoughtful, informed leaders of tomorrow.
Topics
Each year, the National Public Speaking Competition is built around thought-provoking themes designed to inspire reflection, creativity, and personal expression. Participants are invited to explore the meaning of the theme in their own way and bring their unique perspective to the stage.
🔹 Age Category 8–11
The theme for this category is inspired by a quote from Beyoncé Knowles:
“If everything was perfect, you would never learn and you would never grow.”
🔹 Age Categories 12–15 and 16–20
The theme for these categories is inspired by Lighting One Candle, a haiku written by Yosa Buson:
The light of a candle
Is transferred to another candle —
Spring twilight
Explore competition stages
County Heats
- Registrations open October–November, deadline 1 December.
- Optional school/local heats can be run in Jan–Feb, with results submitted by 20 February.
- Official county heats take place 27–29 March in 27 counties.
- Winners advance to regional heats.
Regional Heats
- Students who qualify from the counties take part in regional heats 23–26 April.
- They deliver prepared speeches, using the same judging criteria as in earlier rounds.
- Winners advance to the national semifinals.
National Semifinals & Finals
- 10 May: Semifinals bring together the top students from across the regions.
- 11 May: National finals decide Romania’s best young speakers.
- The winner of the 16–20 age group represents Romania at the International Public Speaking Competition in London.
Alumni Stories: Inspiring Journeys from the National Public Speaking Competition
Discover the powerful impact of the National Public Speaking Competition in English through the voices of our alumni. These stories reflect personal growth, newfound passions, and life-changing experiences that highlight the value of public speaking.
Mara Manole – A Journey from Fear to Passion
Hello everyone! My name is Mara Manole, and I am a student in my first year of college, as well as a proud ESU alumna. I joined the National Public Speaking Competition in the 7th grade because I was terrified of speaking in public but wanted to challenge myself. I thought I might even grow to love it.
After taking a one-year break, I rejoined the competition in the 9th grade and haven’t looked back since. My passion for public speaking grew each year, and my favorite moment was in the 10th grade when I found out I had qualified for the Finals. I felt overwhelmed with joy and privileged to share my views on the world with others. It was then I realized that what once terrified me had become my greatest passion.
By participating in the competition, I gained valuable skills such as persuasion, critical thinking, and time management. I became more confident in speaking in front of an audience, which is now one of the most comfortable things for me to do.
Through my five-year journey, I felt the immeasurable support of the ESU community, my mentors, teachers, and even my fellow competitors, who inspired me to bring out the best in myself. This contest created a safe and welcoming environment where everyone could share their opinions and grow.
To anyone thinking of participating, I encourage you to take the leap, even if you feel scared. It’s an unforgettable experience that will transform you and help you become the best version of yourself.
Advice for beginners: Never doubt the value of your story or opinion. Just say it. Who knows? You might become one of the next best speakers in the world!
Competition History
The National Public Speaking Competition in English is the flagship programme of the ESU Romania and the oldest and most prestigious public speaking competition in the country. It started out in 1996 with only a few schools in Bucharest and has since become a national competition with more than 2000 students enrolling every year.