Speech Competition

Why a Speech Competition?

We’re inviting youth to use their voice and the power of storytelling for something that matters.
This competition centers belonging, connection, and suicide prevention—and creates a powerful platform for speakers who want to spark change.

Theme: Belonging

Speeches should focus on belonging, community, prevention, and what needs to change—in our relationships, schools, systems, or culture.

Competition Format

(3 Rounds)

Round 1 — Video Submission (Virtual)

Deadline: August 1
Submit a 3–4 minute speech video via an unlisted YouTube link.

How it works:

  • Record your speech (phone video is totally fine).

  • Upload to YouTube as Unlisted.

  • Submit your link through our form.

We’ll review submissions and select speakers to move forward.

Round 2 — Semifinals (In Person)

Late August (date + location announced to semifinalists)


We’ll invite selected speakers to deliver their speech live. This round helps us choose finalists and prepare for the public event.

Round 3 — Finals (Public Event)

September 10 • Pilgrim Church • 7pm


5 Finalists will present live in front of judges and a community audience on World Suicide Prevention Day.

Eligibility

  • Age range: 14-18

  • You do not need speaking experience—just a message worth sharing.

  • Speakers may share personal experiences, but the competition is prevention-focused and must follow safety guidelines (below).

Speech Guidelines

(Read Carefully)

To keep this event safe and responsible, speeches must follow these rules:

Allowed:

  • Personal stories and lived experience

  • Messages about belonging, community, prevention, support, and change

  • Calls to action for schools, families, and communities

Not allowed:

  • Graphic descriptions

  • Describing suicide methods or instructions

  • Content that romanticizes or glamorizes self-harm

If a submission includes unsafe content, it may be disqualified.

Judging Criteria

Speeches will be evaluated on:

  • Authenticity & emotional clarity

  • Insight / originality

  • Impact & relevance to belonging and suicide prevention

  • Clarity, structure & delivery

  • Safety & responsibility

Finals winners are determined by judges.

Awards / Prizes

We will award:

  • 1st Place: $300

  • 2nd Place: $100

  • 3rd Place: $50

  • Audience Choice: The Belonging Lab Merch Giveaway

How to Submit

(Round 1)

Step 1: Record a 3–4 minute speech video
Step 2: Upload to YouTube as Unlisted
Step 3: Submit your link here:

SUMBIT HERE

Submission Deadline: August 1 at 11:59 PM PT

Important Note on Support

This event includes themes related to mental health and suicide prevention. If you or someone you know needs support:

  • Call or text 988 (U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)

  • If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room/crisis stabilization unit.

About The Belonging Lab

The Belonging Lab is a nonprofit focused on suicide prevention through community-based solutions—building connection, belonging, and real-world interventions that help people feel less alone.

Questions / Media / Sponsorship

Email: thebelonginglab@gmail.com
Subject line suggestion: “Speech Competition Question”