WORDFEST Unplugged

by Sonia Marta, Year 10

opportunity to enjoy new and innovative works. It encourages the development of new plays, and this can lead to the discovery of an emerging talent and the development of unique and original works.

The first thing that stuck with me, when I look back to the competition now, is the sense of amazement within when I discovered that the judge for my category, Impromptu Speaking, was our drama teacher, Mr Mujica. I knew at that point, that all the pressure I thought I had significantly increased..

I remember the nervous energy I felt as I stepped up to the front of the room to speak. I had only been given one minute to prepare, so knew I had to rely on my storytelling skills if I wanted to do well. My heart was racing as I took a deep breath, trying my best to focus on the prompt in front of me. “Shoes.”

Saturday felt like a proper university student’s start to the weekend. I slept in, woke up, and proceeded to work on what I hoped would be a captivating speech, practicing for the day that awaited me; the Wordfest Competition.

Wordfest is an event that celebrates the written word, promoting literacy and a love of reading. It’s focused on the arts and includes many forms of literature and drama, such as poetry, storytelling, theatrical performances, and both prepared and impromptu persuasive speaking.

One of the most exciting aspects of Wordfest is the

As I began to speak, I could feel a special glow well up from within, as my initial nerves began to melt away. I had always considered myself a good storyteller, and so I was determined to use my passion and enthusiasm to win the audience over. I drew on my own experiences and observations also, weaving them into a compelling narrative about the shift from primary to secondary. When I finished, the audience erupted into applause, and I knew that I had done well.....but was it good enough?

The rest of the competition was a blur of quick thinking and impromptu speeches, but I remained focused and determined. I knew I had a chance to place, and I wasn’t going to let it slip away.

When the final results were announced, I couldn’t believe my ears - I had won second place! It was a moment I would never forget, partly because of the inspiration I’d gotten from my “muse” I’d met that day.

Next year, I’m determined to improve my delivery of humour and will keep developing my speaking skills, especially since it will be the last time I’ll be able to participate.

I’m always glad when I hear Wordfest is just around the corner, as it’s such a pleasure to meet many students your age, who share the same values and interests. It’s impossible not to meet someone you’re going to become life-long friends with!

See you next year, Wordfest!