Joanne Moore, a pupil of Convent Grammar School, won one of two Highly Commended awards at the recent final of the 24th Annual Youth Award Public Speaking competition, sponsored by Progressive Building Society.

Through winning her local heat, Joanne got representing the Enniskillen Soroptimists and the opportunity to speak on the topic, "Domestic Violence – everyone hurts".

The Northern Ireland competition is organised annually by Soroptimist International and is open to young women who are in Years 12 & 13, and are in full time education.

Some 17 finalists were selected from qualifying heats from around 100 entries from right across the province.

Indeed, the competition has seen a marked increase in entries since this skill became an essential Key Skills qualification that students are expected to gain.

Speaking at the event, Dr Joan Smyth, the Chairman of Progressive Building Society said she had been thoroughly impressed by both the content and delivery of the speeches.

"It is not surprising that this competition, now in its 24th year, is recognised within many educational establishments as one of the premier public speaking events in Northern Ireland.

It offers young women a superb opportunity to develop the skills and abilities necessary to voice their opinions on topical subjects in an informed and confident manner."

Sue Hogg, the President of Soroptimist International said her organisation had been running Public Speaking Competitions for young women since 1982 in both Northern Ireland and in the Republic of Ireland to promote and encourage young women from both to meet and compete and to widen their horizons.

"We are delighted to now be working alongside Progressive Building Society to help enhance our work with young women in Northern Ireland and are very grateful for the very generous sponsorship Progressive