Each of us, by the very biology of our design as living beings, is alone. We are firmly contained inside our skins, physically separated in feeling and thought from all others. But we also have the tremendous gift of speech, and with it, the ability to rapidly communicate complex ideas. It is to promote this facility for the spoken word that the Royal Canadian Air Cadets have a competition for effective speaking.
Effective speaking requires the following things: well-formulated thought, understanding of language, strength of voice, and confidence of idea. Throughout life, your ability to convey your thoughts and feelings to others will determine how well you connect with the rest of humanity.
As an Air Cadet, you have already started on a path that can lead higher than you can imagine. The necessity to be able to pass on what you’ve seen and done, to express your own life experience to others, is key.
I congratulate you on your choices in life, and your initiative in entering this Competition. I wish you the very best of success.
Ad Astra! Colonel Chris Hadfield Astronaut, former Air Cadet
For many people, the words “Effective speaking” have a distinct effect. It is not uncommon to be uncomfortable with delivering prepared or impromptu speeches in front of large groups, but in our increasingly competitive world, it is a valuable skill to learn young. That is precisely what a small group of cadets at 819 have the experience to do, at our squadron’s Effective Speaking Competition. After completing an effective speaking instructional program, these cadets had the opportunity to display their skills, delivering one prepared and one impromptu speech in front of a panel of three judges, as well as their family and peers.
You may also have the opportunity to act as the Master of Ceremonies at our Annual Ceremonial Review!
