SpeakUp 2026, a multi-session leadership and communication initiative led by Saroj Tamrakar, Division Director of Division C, District 41, Toastmasters International, successfully concluded its 10-day training journey with an Inter-College Public Speaking Competition at SAIM College on February 21. The event was designed to equip college students with practical public speaking techniques, structured mentorship, and the confidence to express their ideas with authenticity and conviction. In a time when young professionals are expected to communicate clearly, think critically, and present ideas persuasively, initiatives like SpeakUp play a vital role in preparing students for the demands of the modern workplace. While many students possess strong academic knowledge, opportunities to develop structured communication skills remain limited in traditional classroom settings. SpeakUp sought to bridge this gap by creating a supportive environment where students could practice, refine, and showcase their voices. Prior to the grand finale, the SpeakUp team conducted intensive training sessions focused on personality development, speech crafting, and effective delivery across multiple institutions. These sessions were organized at United College, Malpi Institute, Thames International College, Kathmandu College of Management, and Kathford College of Engineering and Management. In addition, online training sessions were conducted to reach participants outside the Kathmandu Valley, expanding the initiative's impact to a wider community of aspiring speakers. The workshops focused not only on speech structure and stage presence but also on building confidence and clarity of thought. Participants were encouraged to explore personal experiences, social issues, and ideas that mattered to them, helping them move beyond memorized speeches toward authentic storytelling and persuasive communication. For many students, the journey from hesitant participation to confidently speaking on stage became a transformative experience. The grand finale showcased nine finalist speakers from various colleges and organizations who delivered prepared speeches following the rigorous evaluation standards of Toastmasters International. Each contestant was assigned a mentor who guided them throughout the preparation process, helping them refine their ideas, strengthen their message, and improve their delivery. The event was attended by approximately 60 guests, students, and communication enthusiasts who witnessed the finalists demonstrate remarkable growth in confidence and articulation over the course of the program.

Prathana Dixit secured first place in the competition. Subriti Gautam was awarded second place, while Saugat Shrestha took the third position. Their speeches reflected not only technical excellence but also a strong sense of authenticity and purpose-qualities that are increasingly valued in today's global communication landscape. Santoshi Lamichhane hosted the evening as the Master of Ceremonies, guiding the audience through the participants' 10-day mentorship journey. The event also featured a keynote address by Distinguished Toastmaster Shaurab Lohani, a seasoned leader within Toastmasters International. Lohani highlighted the growing importance of effective communication in professional and personal life, emphasizing that the ability to convey ideas clearly and confidently often determines how far individuals can progress in their careers. His keynote blended practical insight with relatable humor, leaving the audience both informed and inspired. Beyond the competition itself, programs like SpeakUp contribute meaningfully to the broader goals of higher education institutions. Colleges today are increasingly focused on producing graduates who are not only academically capable but also ready to enter the workforce with strong interpersonal and leadership skills. Public speaking initiatives such as SpeakUp help institutions move closer to this goal by strengthening students' confidence, presentation skills, and ability to engage audiences-qualities highly valued by employers across industries. The successful event concluded with the distribution of certificates to the volunteers and organizing committee. Acknowledgements were presented to the keynote speaker and to Ravindra Yadav, Promotion Partner for SpeakUp 2026, who concurrently serves as the Public Relations Manager for Area C3 and Vice President of Public Relations at SAIM Toastmasters Club. Saroj Tamrakar, Division C Director for District 41, delivered the closing remarks. Recognized as the primary driving force behind SpeakUp 2026, Tamrakar commended the organizing team for their dedication, noting that the initiative was the result of four months of meticulous planning and the realization of a vision he had envisioned nearly a year ago. The program concluded with a networking session aimed at strengthening connections within Kathmandu's growing community of young communicators and emerging leaders. About SpeakUp: SpeakUp is an intensive mentorship and public speaking initiative dedicated to transforming nervous beginners into confident communicators through structured training, mentorship, and competitive speech events.