The 2025 Soroptimist International of The Hills District - Public Speaking Competition is organised as a component of the Hills Shire Council Orange Blossom Festival.

This year’s theme, Empowered Voices, Sustainable Choices, encourages young people to explore how individuals and communities can make informed, ethical, and bold decisions that support a more sustainable and equitable future. 

Soroptimist International is a global volunteer movement working to improve the lives of women and girls through education, empowerment, and enabling opportunities. Our work aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity for all. This competition reflects our commitment to SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Each student will be asked to prepare and present a speech on the following two topics: 

Junior Divisions - How can one voice make a difference in protecting Mother Earth?

Senior Divisions - How can young people shape cities that are inclusive, green and resilient?

Students in the Junior Divisions will be required to speak for 3-4 minutes

and students in the Senior Divisions will be required to speak for 4-5 minutes.