Video transcript
Multicultural Perspectives Public Speaking Competition 2018 – Promo

STUDENT 1: To open our minds, first, we need to really listen to each other.

STUDENT 2: Share the values of fairness, equality.

STUDENT 3: That despite our different cultural backgrounds, we are all one. We are all the same.

TONY DAVEY: What they end up looking for is the sophistication of your ideas and your ability to communicate those often, complex and broad and maybe even global ideas through your own lens. The judges are looking for some very different things. So they are looking for you to be a down to Earth communicator, someone who is not too showy just like straight and chatting to the audience. And they're looking for a well-structured speech, obviously.

ANDREW LASAITIS: : I think from a teaching perspective, we'll develop confidence students. We'll be able to increase the ability to have discussions in class, being able to talk about real-world examples.

STUDENT 1: What would you choose today?

RAY WILLIAMS: It is a unique opportunity to embrace this field. It doesn't come easy for anyone.

TONY DAVEY: These kids are at the very beginning of speaking truth to power.

STUDENT 4: Peace and stability throughout the world, no matter their race or religion. So no matter who you are or where you come from, welcome.

TONY DAVEY: It's about learning to take your ideas and explain them to people. And at the same time being quite young, you've got that added element of learning to be brave enough to stand up and point out problems you might see.

STUDENT 1: Because of these words, she suffered anxiety issues.

STUDENT 2: It's up to us to be aware of this form of racism and stop it.

STUDENT 5: Sharing our cultures and stories is how we appreciate each other. Even in the horror of war, connection across barriers is possible.

TONY DAVEY: They're learning about multiculturalism. They're trying to engage with their own stories and the stories of their friends and thinking about something that maybe they don't always think about.

ANDREW LASAITIS: : It teaches students to be aware of issues relating to how we live and how we get on and how we need to cooperate. And these kids are the ones that are going to be making decisions for us in the future.

STUDENT 5: But I'm the only person in Australia with the name [inaudible].

TONY DAVEY: You might wonder what life looks like for someone from a different culture.

STUDENT 3: This is my family name, and I wear it with pride. It is the link to my heritage.