Although challenging, the impromptus were an excellent way for me to express my concerns about the topics given to me: pill testing and climate change. Being given the opportunity to talk about such topical issues that are affecting many people throughout Australia and the world, I felt I was giving a voice to those who don’t have one. My prepared speech was about the effects of the drought. I decided to talk about the impact that the drought has on children and young people because I believe that it is not discussed enough. I was absolutely honoured to be named as the winner of the overall competition and the public speaking component. Thank you to Mrs Pulham for all her support during the competition!