Announcing the Winners of the
2025 Unexpected Voices Speech Competition

We are thrilled to unveil the outstanding winners of the Unexpected Voices Speech Competition Canada! In collaboration with World Speech Day, this competition aimed to amplify the voices of students across Canada, showcasing their innovative ideas and thoughts on the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In a time where global challenges loom large, it is imperative to highlight positive and inspiring solutions for a better world. From climate change to poverty alleviation, our students have demonstrated remarkable insight and creativity in addressing these pressing issues.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and participants for their exceptional contributions. Their speeches have not only sparked meaningful dialogue but have also inspired action towards a more sustainable and equitable future.

 


Ember Tam [7-8 Age Category]
Ian Li [9-10 Age Category]
Shaun Santhosh Kumar [11-12 Age Category]
Sanjana Santhosh [13-15 Age Category]

 


Kabir Bahl [7-8 Age Category]
Alisha Jacob [9-10 Age Category]
Elizabeth Kim [11-12 Age Category]
Anya Narang-De [13-15 Age Category]

 


Vasav Singla [7-8 Age Category]
Jenitha Ratnam [9-10 Age Category]
Ryo Brown [11-12 Age Category]
Hilary Ding [13-15 Age Category]

Links to 2025 Speech Competition Finals

Explore the inspiring speeches from the 2025 Unexpected Voices Speech Competition Finals through the YouTube links below. Witness firsthand the powerful ideas and eloquence of our young speakers, who are the future leaders of tomorrow.

We are excited to announce that the 2026 Speech Competition will open for submissions in September 2025! This initiative seeks to amplify young voices across Canada by encouraging students to discuss the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The competition not only raises awareness of the SDGs but also helps students develop their writing and speaking skills while fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Aspiring speakers can submit their written speeches once the online form becomes active, which will be available starting September 2025. The deadline for submissions is January 31, 2026. A distinguished panel of judges, including professional speechwriters, will select fifteen speeches from each age category to advance to Round 2.

The Finals and Awards Ceremony will be held at The Bishop Strachan School (BSS) on April 26, 2026. We sincerely thank BSS for partnering with us. Their hospitality and commitment to nurturing young talent will help make this event truly special. We look forward to another inspiring and memorable showcase of young voices.

Overview

Power of Words Academy, in collaboration with World Speech Day, proudly presents the Unexpected Voices Speech Competition. This initiative seeks to amplify young voices across Canada by encouraging students to discuss the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The competition not only raises awareness of the SDGs but also enhances students' writing and speaking skills while fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

 
 
 

Competition Rounds


Please submit your written speeches by January 31, 2026, using the Online Form, which will be available starting September 2025. A panel of judges, including professional speechwriters, will review all submissions and select fifteen speeches from each age category to advance to Round 2.

 


Selected students will present their speeches at Bishop Strachan School in Toronto on April 26, 2026.


Judging Criteria for Round 2

Prizes

First, Second and Third place from each age category will receive the following:

FIRST PLACE

$100 cash prize

Trophie and 1st Place Medal

Certificate of Distinction

$500 Power of Words Academy Gift Certificate

SECOND PLACE

2nd Place Medal

Certificate of Distinction

$250 Power of Words Academy Gift Certificate

THIRD PLACE

3rd Place Medal

Certificate of Distinction

$100 Power of Words Academy Gift Certificate

All students who submitted speeches and attend the ceremony will receive Certificates of Distinction. Finalists who present their speeches will be honoured with medals. Additionally, first, second, and third place winners from each age category will be awarded prestigious trophies and exciting prizes.

Competition Details

Theme

Students will articulate their thoughts on one of the United Nations’ 17 SDGs. Speeches must be written in English.

Age Categories (as of December 31, 2025)

  • 7-8 years old

  • 9-10 years old

  • 11-12 years old

  • 13-15 years old

Word Limits

  • 300 words for the 7-8 and 9-10 age categories

  • 500 words for the 11-12 and 13-15 age categories

Entry Submission

Teachers or parents are required to submit selected student speeches via the ONLINE FORM by January 15, 2026. Submission is free, but authenticity will be verified by schools to ensure originality.

Competition Dates

  • Opening Date: October 1, 2025

  • Closing Date: January 15, 2026

  • Results of Round 1: Posted February 15, 2026

  • Finals: Sunday, April 26, 2026, at The Bishop Strachan School, 298 Lonsdale Rd, Toronto,.

Downloads

Unexpected Voices 2026 Competition Rules
The 17 Goals Sustainable Development Goals
Take Action for the Sustainable Development Goals
Canada's Action Plan on the Sustainable Development Goals
170 Daily Actions