Magallanes has always been known for its many different events. From the Mini-Olympics to the Poetry Contest, there has never been a lack of activities, competitions, or exhibitions to participate in our school and our authorities have always kept in mind the diversity in them. One such event that is relatively new is our Oratory Contest which started in the schoolyear 2018-2019.
Oratory can be defined as; the art of informing and persuading people through the use of public speaking skills. It generally means speaking in front of an audience and using high-level language skills to inform, educate and persuade the audience.
As mentioned earlier, this competition started fairly recently in our school but it has managed to get the attention of students who are looking for a forum to express their ideas and those with a knack for public speaking.
There are many reasons one might want to go into the oratory world, but some of the most commonly mentioned by people who have participated are; that it gives them the chance to share their experience and passion for public speaking with others and gather skills from their peers as they observe and learn from them and it provides a challenge for those who are looking to test themselves as well as those who are not fond of being in front of others.
Regardless of your motivation, it brings great benefits to the ones who participate, as it helps to develop the character and confidence which is essential when standing in front of an audience and addressing them. Skills that will undoubtedly be of great benefit in one's future.
In addition, being trained in oratory is essential for a successful professional life. It is becoming more and more important considering the value it provides when connecting with others whether motivating and inspiring a team or transmitting the values or ideals of a company.
Hoping that the prior inspires our students to continue participating and giving their best, we leave you with a phrase as generally done in oratory fashion.
“You can speak well if your tongue can deliver the message of your heart.”
John Ford
By Mario Gurtiérrez