Bournville Head Boy’s speech: Bournville All-Through School’s Cael Mohanraj proved he is a master of audience engagement when his powerful speech on social media earned him third place in a major public speaking contest – entered by 600 students.
Cael, who was elected Bournville’s Head Boy in May, was one of the stars of the Speak Out Challenge final, which was held at George Cadbury Hall, University of Birmingham, on Tuesday 23 June.
Organised by Speakers Trust, the annual contest is designed to help young people speak up on the issues that matter most to them. The final marked the culmination of weeks of competition involving hundreds of students from schools across the region.
Cael told the audience: “Did you know that an average teen spends over three hours a day on social media? That is not a hobby, ladies and gentlemen. No, that is a part-time job, except the only thing you’re getting paid in is sleep deprivation and regret.
“I’m not telling you to delete social media and go live in the woods. But the next time you go on it, just think: do we really need it?”
Cael earned his spot at the regional final after Bournville’s Year 10s took part in a public speaking workshop, led by a Speakers Trust trainer and funded by Aim Higher.
He then triumphed in an assembly final and was chosen to represent Bournville at the regional event.
He was presented with his Speak Out Challenge certificate by the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zaker Choudhry.
Afterwards, Cael said: “My experience with Speakers Trust was nothing short of fantastic. Everything was well organised, and the organisers, trainers and fellow contestants created a welcoming and supportive atmosphere that made the event enjoyable rather than intimidating.
“As a Year 10 student, I found public speaking quite daunting at first, but Speakers Trust gave me the confidence, practical techniques and guidance I needed to see it as simply having a conversation with an audience.
“The training was excellent, and I learned valuable skills that will stay with me long after the event. I would highly recommend Speakers Trust to anyone looking to build their confidence, overcome stage fright and become a more effective public speaker.”
Mr Kieran Walpole, Associate Assistant Principal for English, said: “Cael spoke with real confidence and clarity about social media and wrote an excellent speech. He has a natural charisma and confidence that make him a truly engaging public speaker.
“The level of competition was extremely high, and Cael came third, a wonderful achievement. Cael is an excellent ambassador for our school as Head Boy and his family and teachers are all very proud of his achievements.”