HSBC Malta Foundation supported the English Speaking Union of Malta to organise a public speaking competition for sixth formers. Through this initiative, 10 Maltese students from 5 different Sixth Form schools were given the opportunity to join 40,000 other young people from 46 different countries for the competition, organised globally by the English-Speaking Union (ESU) and sponsored by the HSBC Global Education Trust.

The winner, Luisa Cassar Pullicino from St Aloysius College won the Malta competition and the right to represent the country in the international finals, to be held in London in May. The runner-up was Asma Dekna, from St Edward’s College. The other competing students represented Junior College, Verdala International School and Sir M’Ang Refalo Centre for Further Studies.

During a presentation held at St James Cavalier Centre for Creativity in Valletta, the 10 speakers were asked to deliver a five-minute speech on the topic Words Are Not Enough in front of an audience and a panel of judges. Following their speech, the students took questions from the panel.

At the end of the evening, Martin Scicluna, Chairman of the ESU Malta, thanked and congratulated all the participants and invited Ray Briffa, HSBC Head of Branch Banking & Deputy Head of Personal Financial Services, to present the prize to the winner and certificate to the runner-up.

HSBC’s Global Education Trust was established 10 years ago. Since then, it has provided numerous opportunities for young people by offering an enhanced educational experience and a more holistic approach to education. HSBC Malta Foundation has extended this support to the newly-launched ESU Malta branch to ensure that Maltese students can benefit from the same platform offered across the globe.

The ESU is an independent, global educational charity, founded in 1918, to promote international understanding and friendship through the use of the English language. By building skills and confidence in communication, people are given the opportunity to realise their full potential.

Mr Briffa said, “HSBC encourages self-development and career advancement. HSBC Malta Foundation fully supports the ESU public speaking competition as it encourages youths, who are the movers and shakers of the future, in reaching their potential as effective communicators.”