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“I was really happy and proud”- this is what Fatima said on being asked about her win by GEMA. We recently had the chance to interview our champion participant in the Student Speaker Contest- Fatima whose excellence at oratory was evident throughout the conversation. She is the winner of GEMA’s Student Speaker Contest’25 at the national level. Her persistence and diligence at oratory was evident throughout the interview. She shared with us her experience of participating at an international contest which she claims has opened new doors of opportunities for her. She shared with us her preparation journey and how she used to record herself speaking and how with every attempt she became more confident and better. Clearly, what stood out was her refusal to give up which made her way to this big win. The topic for her speech was “Failures as a stepping stone to success”. She also said that this topic resonated with her as she firmly holds onto this quote and, it won’t be wrong if we say that she has indeed proved it. She also mentioned that in her speech she involved a few famous personalities and how they failed multiple times to achieve what they have today. It clearly shows her awareness and consideration of success and the pain one has to bear to achieve that. Talking to us, she also revealed that she dreams of receiving a Nobel prize for peace which adds to her will of expressing her opinions on societal issues prevailing these days. She called her experience at GEMA enjoyable and truly rewarding. She also told us that she was not nervous during the final speech because of practising her speech multiple times and that her favorite part in the entire process was writing because she loves doing that. She told us that revising her speech at night made her remember it  for a longer time. She also said that she is a literature student and thus, most of her inspiration for speech came from her director. We praise her for her thoughts and endeavors at bringing a change in the world and thus, we wish her luck for the same. Know more about our team GEMA here.

The GEMA Student Speaker Competition was one of the dynamic platforms of 2025, showcasing the young talents and wonderful ideas. It was held recently, and the competition featured interviews, storytelling, and informative insights into public speaking. In a very recent GEMA interview with a cheerful 5-year-old from UKG, Atharv Jangid who won the first prize. Here, little Atharv shared about his experience that made him feel proud and happy. For the competition, little Atharv chose to recite a playful monkey poem, which he practiced daily by repeating it to gain confidence. His mother and teacher helped him a lot in this journey. He stated that he was a little nervous in the beginning but eventually gained confidence during his preparation journey. When he was asked about his favorite journey of this whole experience, this young student smiled and said that to win in this competition was his favorite. His joy was clearly evident and his dedication at such an age is very remarkable. Atharv even stated his dream topic to talk about which is “Fitness”, which highlights his interest in health. In this interview, we also talked to his father, who was overly proud of his son and would love to make his children participate more in such competitions in future. He stated that Atharv is always curious about new things and that he loves to learn something new. He shared that Atharv’s mother, teacher and sister played a big role in his success. GEMA provides this platform which is safe and encourages young students to express themselves through storytelling and public speaking. This UKG student shows how young minds can shine when given the right platform, and support and guidance.  Join GEMA competitions to use your voice to drive a positive change in 2025 and beyond! Learn more about our team here!

Aafiya Hayat Khan’s story is about a little girl who proves through her hard work, confidence, and determination that public speaking is not just a skill of speaking but a powerful way to understand yourself and convey your thoughts to others. After winning the GEMA Student Speaker Competition, her journey has become even more inspiring. Personal Growth and Building Self-Confidence While preparing for the competition, Aafiya prepared her speech well, practiced speaking every word clearly, and worked on her pronunciation. The most important thing was that she reduced the use of electronic gadgets in her free time so that more focus could be on practice. This small change boosted her confidence. Now she can think and speak on her own in group discussions, which was also appreciated by the teachers. Motivation at every step The biggest contribution to Aafiya’s success was from her mother. She always motivated Aafiya to work on her inner qualities, speak confidently in front of the camera, and learn to express her ideas. Her mother prepared her not only for competition but also for every platform of life. Discipline and Focus Aafiya followed a clear strategy in her preparation. While many students spend their free time in entertainment, Aafiya gave priority to speech practice. Improving pronunciation, working on speech clarity, and maintaining self-discipline – the result of all these efforts was seen in her confident performance. It was this dedication that made her different from other contestants. Feeling of Happiness and Pride When Aafiya won the GEMA Student Speaker Competition, it was an emotional and proud moment for her. Teachers, friends, and family all rejoiced at her success. This victory was not just a trophy for her but a signal that her hard work has paid off and now she can confidently present herself on any stage. Equality Aafiya’s favourite subject of speaking is “Equality.” She wants that voice to be raised against discrimination, stereotypes and prejudices in every corner of the world. She believes that every human being should get the right to equality, and public speaking is one such medium through which we can reach this message to the people. Aafiya’s message for any students Aafiya has a very valuable message for future competitors: “Focus on your goals, not on winning, but on the process.” She says that every participant should give their best, without any pressure. Every effort is a new learning, and more important than winning is being happy with yourself. Conclusion Aafiya Hayat Khan’s journey is a reminder that big dreams can be seen even at a young age—and they can also be fulfilled if there is dedication, focus, and support. Through public speaking, Aafiya has not only raised her voice but has also shown a path for others. This journey is an inspiration for every student who believes in himself and wants to convey his ideas to the world. Know more about our team GEMA here.

“The moment really boosted my confidence… felt I could achieve much  more.”- this is what Shaksham said when asked about his win to GEMA. We recently had the chance to interview our champion participant in theStudent Speech Contest- Shaksham Agarwal, a student in seventh grade at Rukmini Devi Public School. He is the winner of GEMA’s Student Speech Contest’25 at an international level. He is no doubt a humble and excellent orator which was evident throughout the interview. He shared with us his experience of participating at a global level. He also shared with us his preparation journey and how he used to record himself in front of the mirror that used to make him nervous. Clearly, what stood out was his refusal to give up which made his way to winning this competition. He also told us that the topic assigned to him, which was “Future of Technology- Advancements in AI”, resonated with him. It obviously portrays his awareness about the technological needs in the present scenario. Talking to us, he also revealed that he is interested in aviation and the most precious reward to him is honor and pride and how respect is what matters the most to him. He also mentioned how his mother and English teacher helped him prepare for the competition. He recalled going to school for practicing even on holidays. He told us that his teacher helped him with grammar and spellings for his final speech. He said that he felt quite nervous but the support of his parents and teachers and the environment at GEMA helped him ace the contest better. He also left a message for future participants and shared his experience of how he failed badly at first and ended up winning the competition. It indeed showcased his persistent and diligent attitude to the competitive environment. We also got the chance to talk to his mother. On being asked she told us that competition overall was an enjoyable and learning space. She also told that it has helped Shaksham become an even more confident and diligent public speaker adding to his interest of expressing himself publicly. This contest indeed helped him pave his way to becoming a confident and impactful orator. We wish him luck for all his future endeavors. Learn more about our team here!

It was an extraordinary student, Siddharth Tatapudi who gave us insight into their passions, achievements, and aspirations. Our conversation opened with their recent letter, in which they elegantly made a case for the vital subject of world peace. They cited the current conflicts in Ukraine and Israel to underscore the suffering of the people involved and to provide concrete solutions that the UN might consider. So impressive is this independently written piece that it really is a testament to the boy’s independent spirit and commitment. The writing took about two and a half hours; not bad considering the time he took to really think about what he was going to write. Beyond their concern for worldly matters, the student revealed his passion for writing, especially for science fiction. He enjoys telling tales about planets and aliens, an entertaining pastime that helps keep his mind active and engaged. Their favorite planet was Neptune, named so because of the interesting fact that it rains diamonds- a fact that created a chuckling moment for us! Although he likes to write, their real calling lies elsewhere. He doesn’t see himself as a writer but as a cardiologist, a tough but highly rewarding profession. That in itself speaks volumes about his drive to really touch the lives of people. An athletic youngster, he enjoys table tennis, cricket, tennis, and swimming. Nothing keeps him from living that balanced life, balancing academic-world activities with sports. His advice to other Young writers interested in participating in such competitions is: get a diary started. He really believes in its capacity to release creativity and help one experience the joy of writing. Their recent win was dedicated to both families and himself, acknowledging the unexpected joy that his parents had brought him when they announced his victory. This student is really a soil for the growth of the future, and the interviewer  greatly hopes he will live up to his promise as a cardiologist. Learn more about our team GEMA here.

In another interview session with our young little champions we have Ayan Kasera with us. Cheerful and talented Ayan is a student of Kolkata International School, currently studying in Grade 4B. In the recent interview session with him by GEMA Education, Ayan shared his journey of participation in the speech contest and also shared some moments of excitement, challenges, and dreams throughout the process of the contest and his journey. Ayan’s joy was unhidden when he was asked how he felt after winning the best speaker contest in the interview. He said the winning moment was a moment which was only filled with happiness and excitement. Ayan’s idea of a role model was the center of his speech which was able to resonate with each and everyone. Ayan believes that anyone who never gives up and tries hard deserves appreciation and admiration instead of limiting the idea of a role model to any single successful person. Ayan credited his parents for their constant support during the preparation phase. Although he practiced diligently, he admitted facing moments where he would forget parts of his speech. However, showing great presence of mind for his age, he decided to deliver it in his own words, making it natural and heartfelt. Another obstacle for young speaker Ayan was his stage fear. But, Ayan overcame his stage fright by his confidence. He mentioned that his favorite part throughout the contest was experiencing meeting people whom he had always looked up to which made the event more memorable for him. What was interesting was although Ayan enjoys public speaking, he also feels a little shy among large gatherings, so he prefers small groups. When we asked him about his dream topic, he mentioned a fun and imaginative idea:- “the ability to talk to animals”, just as in the movie Dr. Dolittle. Ayan had a simple yet encouraging message for other children: give your best, and you might discover a new passion for speaking. Apart from speaking, Ayan also dreams of winning a prize for drumming, combining his love for music with his vibrant personality. Ayan is a bright young boy with big dreams indeed! Learn more about our team at GEMA here!

GEMA Student Speaker: “The adrenaline kicked in fast”- this is what Alisha said on being asked about her win.  We recently had the chance to interview our champion participant in theStudent Speaker Contest- Alisha Khan who is a student at Delhi Public School in Chattisgarh. She is the winner of GEMA’s Student Speaker Contest’25 at the national level. Her persistence and diligence at oratory was evident throughout the interview. She shared with us her experience of participating at an international contest for the first time. She shared with us her preparation journey and how she used to record herself speaking and always ended up doubting herself. Clearly, what stood out was her refusal to give up which made her way to this big win. The topic for her speech was “Learning From Failures” which suited her in all senses. Talking to us, she also revealed that she is a nature enthusiast and most of her inspiration for the final speech came from her life lessons and advice from her mother. She also mentioned her desire to receive an award or a little recognition for nature conservation work. She called her experience at GEMA enjoyable and truly rewarding. She also told us that she was not nervous during the final speech because of practising hard which took the nervous streak out of her. She recalled acting as a judge and not as a contestant while practising. Well, that is a great way of constructive criticism. This contest indeed helped her way to becoming a confident and impactful orator. We wish her luck for all her future endeavors. Learn more about our team GEMA here.

GEMA ’s Student Speaker Competition once again honors young individuals with courageous ideas. In a recent discussion, Mahima shared her motivating journey through a calm and reflective conversation that showcased her enthusiasm and self-assurance. The dialogue started on a friendly note, allowing Mahima to present her speech subject and mention that it centered on the significance of reading and its influence in the modern world. She spoke with great fervor about the inspiration behind her idea, detailing how a personal experience or observation drove her to explore the topic. Mahima opened up about anxiousness and candidly spoke about her nervousness whenever she faced the camera. Furthermore, she also discussed about how she mastered these difficulties through regular practice by standing and speaking in front of the mirror, and the firm support of her mother, highlighting her strength and determination. Additionally, she expressed her passion towards reading and mentioned her favorite book that inspired her to start reading i.e ; “The Famous Five, by Enid Blyton.” Mahima recounted how she gained self-assurance, developed new abilities, and envisioned future steps such as expanding the initiative or mentoring others. In summary, GEMA’s interviewer kept a warm and insightful tone, posing open-ended questions, listening actively, and allowing the story to flourish. Learn more about our team GEMA here.

Student Speaker Teen, Ryskim Zaportiza Corva, a 13-year-old student of Philippine Science High School Karaga Region Campus, talks about her experience of participating and winning a speech competition and her future plans with effort to inspire everyone. Of importance to the young generation, who have become screen-addicted, was the topic about the necessity of reading in the digital era, a note that Ryskim captured in her winning speech. She notes the special kind of magic, which books can provide that is so easy to forget in a world filled with gadgets and how one can derive a profound sense of meaning and experience through reading. In addition to literature, Ryskim unveils a strong mental health awareness advocacy. She has a vision to talk about how mental illness should not define an individual or restrict his or her potential, break the stigma in society and spread love and understanding. It is a wonderful effort to de-stigmatize mental health problems among young citizens. In the future, the student speaker is not only bright, but also has a fascination towards the cosmos. Being in love with space since her childhood, Ryskim believes that in the future she will make it to winning an astronomy and astrophysics competition, demonstrating the power of curiosity. Her experience is a great model to inspire young people aiming to become future leaders not only in the Philippines but all over the world and shows that a young generation can do a lot with the right amount of determination and a point to propose. “To the future contestants” she says, “Be heartfelt and the rest will follow”. Learn more about us and our team here.

Have you ever known a girl who had won a great speaking contest? She is called Aarvi Dhiram. Has it ever happened that you know someone who can talk so confidently? To make you know a fearless girl, I have to tell you about Aarvi Dhiram, who teaches us how to feel confident during our speeches. Why Aarvi is A Special Place? Aarvi is not an ordinary girl. Confidence is something that she possesses. People hear what she has to say. She is tall, talks clearly, and never feels afraid to have her ideas voiced. She smiled very big and was self-contented. This is what distinguishes her from other shy children. What Confidence Does She Display? People are seen through the eyes of Aarvi when she talks. She does not stare at her feet as many shy children do. She has a strong voice. She does not talk too fast or too slowly. She also uses her hands to assist her thoughts. This makes her speech interesting. Aarvi goes through with all the preparation even before she talks. She ponders over what to tell. She rehearses in a mirror, even consulting her mother to do so. This makes her prepared and self-assured. What Can We Take Away with Aarvi? Aarvi educates us that practice makes confidence. She tells us not to cower when it comes to expressing our words. It is alright even when we get it wrong. It is a noble effort to attempt. Conclusion Aarvi Dhiram is an excellent role model to everybody. She reveals that everyone could be a good speaker through practice and courage. Maybe we can all be like Aarvi, cool, fearless, and thoughtful. It is a fact to remember that everyone can learn confidence. Learn more about our team here!