Students Found Their Voices at WTEF’s First Public Speaking Competition
This weekend, Washington Tennis & Education Foundation, in partnership with Highest Speak as a training partner, hosted its very first “Game. Set. Speak!” Public Speaking Competition and the event was filled with energy, encouragement, nerves, laughter, and some truly inspiring moments.
After months of preparation and coaching, students took the stage to deliver speeches in front of judges, families, educators, and community leaders. For many of them, this was one of the biggest speaking experiences of their lives so far.
One of the highlights of the event was having Dr. Antoinette Mitchell, Superintendent of Schools for Washington, DC, attend both as a speaker and judge. Dr. Mitchell spoke about the importance of teaching communication skills early, especially in a world increasingly shaped by AI and technology.
Her message resonated deeply throughout the day: while technology continues to advance, the ability to confidently communicate ideas, connect with people, and use your voice effectively is becoming more important than ever.
That message was reinforced by Townley Cozad, an executive at Microsoft, who shared that even while working in technology and around computers every day, the human element remains critical. The ability to communicate, present ideas, collaborate, and genuinely connect with others continues to matter enormously in today’s workforce.
Another memorable moment came from Candace Smith, CEO of WTEF, who shared that she wished opportunities like this had existed when she was a child. It was a powerful reminder of why programs like these are so meaningful, especially for students who may not otherwise have opportunities to build confidence speaking in front of others.
NBC was also on site covering the event, helping spotlight the importance of empowering students to use their voices and build confidence at an early age.
At Highest Speak, we were incredibly honored to help coach and prepare the students for this event over the past several months. Watching them step onto the stage and challenge themselves publicly was something our team will not forget.
We are also deeply grateful to the Highest Speak coaches who helped make this event possible.
Jon Yeager, one of Highest Speak’s most beloved veteran instructors, brought humor, energy, encouragement, and incredible stage presence to the students throughout the process. He had the audience laughing all day while also helping students feel comfortable and confident on stage.
And Britney Mason… whose patience is truly unmatched. Her calm encouragement, consistency, and ability to connect with students played a huge role in helping many of them push through nerves and self-doubt. Being a school guidance counselor may have something to do with that!
This event was about far more than winning a competition.
It was about students realizing they are capable of standing up, speaking out, and being heard. It was about learning to ENJOY public speaking!
And that is something powerful!
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