English-Speaking Union NSW

Tag: PESA

  • Supporting the Future of Public Speaking in NSW

    Supporting the Future of Public Speaking in NSW

    The English-Speaking Union NSW is honoured to acknowledge the generosity of Mr Francis Farmakidis and his firm, Vobis Lawyers, whose recent donation will support the Union’s work in New South Wales.

    This contribution will be directed towards the Plain English Speaking Award (PESA), a flagship initiative that encourages young people to develop confidence, clarity, and conviction in their public speaking. The Award has a proud tradition of fostering the next generation of communicators, and the support of Frances and Vobis Lawyers ensures its continued success.

    The English-Speaking Union NSW is deeply grateful for this partnership. It is through the commitment of members and friends such as Mr Farmakidis that we are able to uphold the mission of the ESU: promoting international understanding and the use of English as a means of communication and fellowship.

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  • A Triumph of Eloquence: Australia’s 2025 Plain English Speaking Award National Final

    A Triumph of Eloquence: Australia’s 2025 Plain English Speaking Award National Final

    The English language can be complex and beautiful, but the true mark of a great speaker is the ability to communicate with clarity and sincerity. This was on full display this year at the 2025 Plain English Speaking Award (PESA) National Final.

    Held virtually, the competition brought together four of Australia’s most promising young orators: Saxon Miller (QLD), Samantha Lee (WA), Fadzai Bako (VIC), and the eventual champion, Olivia (VIC). It was a testament to their dedication and passion that, even through the digital medium of Zoom, their compelling arguments and personal narratives had such a profound impact. Each prepared speech was a masterful exercise in reasoned thought, tackling subjects of contemporary import with intellectual rigour and genuine passion.

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  • NSW State Final for The Plain English Speaking Award 2022

    NSW State Final for The Plain English Speaking Award 2022

    The final for this award will be held at the NSW Teachers Federation Conference Centre, 37 Reservoir St, Surry Hills NSW 2010.

    For more information on this competition, see the website for The Arts Unit, NSW Department of Education