How the Contest Works

CONTEST DETAILS

How the Contest Works

The NH Lions Speak Out Speech Contest gives New Hampshire students ages 13–19 who are not yet in college a chance to prepare and present a speech on one statewide topic. Students begin at a local Lions Club contest, and local winners may advance to the state contest at the Mid-Winter Convention in January.

Who Can Participate

Ages 13–19, not yet in college

Speech Length

4–6 minutes

Local Contest Deadline

December 15, 2026

State Contest

January 30, 2027

Nashua, NH

Who Can Participate

Speak Out is open to New Hampshire students ages 13–19 who are not yet in college. Public school, private school, homeschool, and youth program students are welcome.

Prior-year winners may participate again if they still meet the eligibility requirements. Students may participate in only one local contest each year. Leo or Lions Club membership is not required.

Speech Guidelines

Students prepare one speech on this year’s official statewide topic. The same topic is used at the local and state levels, with minor revisions allowed as students practice and refine their speeches.

Speech Timing

Speech length: 4–6 minutes
Time signals: Students will receive time signals at 4 minutes, 5 minutes, and 6 minutes.
Timing: Speeches that are under or over the required time may receive a penalty.

Presentation Format

Notes: Students may use notes during their speech.
Format: Speeches must be delivered in person. There is no virtual contest option.
Revisions: Minor revisions are allowed as students practice and refine their speeches.

Student Voice & Originality

Original work and support: Speeches must reflect the student’s own thinking, words, and voice. Students may receive help with brainstorming, practice, timing, and feedback, but the speech must remain their own work.
AI use: AI tools may not be used to write, rewrite, or generate the speech.
Respectful content: Speeches must be appropriate for a student and community audience. Personal attacks, bullying, harassment, or discriminatory language are not allowed.

From Local Contest to State Stage

Students begin with a local contest or approved local contest opportunity. Local winners may advance to the NH Lions Speak Out State Contest at the Lions Mid-Winter Convention.

1. Get Connected

Students, parents, educators, youth leaders, and Lions Clubs may contact the NH Lions Speak Out committee for help connecting with a local contest opportunity.

2. Participate Locally

Students first present their speech at a local Lions Club contest or approved local contest opportunity. Clubs may choose to combine local contests when helpful.

3. Advance if Selected

Each local contest may select one winner to advance to the state contest.

4. Speak at Mid-Winter

Local winners may advance to the state contest at the Lions Mid-Winter Convention. The contest is scheduled for January 30, 2027 in Nashua, NH.

Judging & Feedback

Speeches are judged on content and originality, organization and clarity, delivery, audience connection, and time management

A judging rubric will be shared in advance so students understand how speeches will be evaluated. Judging may consider content, organization, delivery, connection to the topic, and overall effectiveness. Judges’ decisions are final.

Whenever possible, students will receive feedback to help them continue building confidence and communication skills.

Prizes

State Contest Prizes:

1st Place: $750

2nd Place: $500

3rd Place: $250

Suggested Local Prize Structure:

Local clubs are encouraged to offer prizes if they are able.

1st Place: $200

2nd Place: $100

3rd Place: $50

Ready to Speak Out? → Register as a Contestant

Want the details? → Read the Official Contest Rules

Interested in bringing Speak Out to your community? → Get Your Lions Club Involved

Need Help Getting Connected?

Email NHLionsspeakout@gmail.com and we will help connect you with the right next step.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse