WPGA Shines at Public Speaking Competition in Maine

The trip to Portland, Maine for the International Independent Schools Public Speaking Competition (IISPSC) was a great success. Grade 9 students Ashley Chen, Teresa Pan, and Amos Zhu represented WPGA with poise, maturity, and enthusiasm throughout the tournament.

Competing in the Persuasive, Interpretive, and Impromptu categories, the team performed exceptionally well against older competitors, placing 11th overall out of 34 schools, which is an impressive achievement for such a young group. A special congratulations goes to Teresa Pan, who advanced to the finals in the Persuasive Speaking category with her speech on myopia. Her outstanding performance earned her a place on the Canadian team that will compete at the World Championships in Bristol.

Beyond the competition, students enjoyed exploring Portland’s culture and cuisine, highlighted by a taste of local seafood, and took part in a team-building escape room activity. Throughout the trip, they demonstrated responsibility, camaraderie, and sportsmanship, earning positive remarks from other schools and coaches.

It was a rewarding and memorable experience that strengthened skills, friendships, and confidence—an excellent reflection of WPGA’s spirit of learning and leadership!