Kamal Dennis, a Year 10 student from The Douay Martyrs Catholic School in Ickenham, has won the Regional Final of Jack Petchey’s “Speak Out Challenge” and is now a semi-finalist in the UK’s largest youth public speaking competition.
Competing against thousands of students from over 500 state schools, Kamal’s powerful speech on racism in football impressed the judges at Vyners School on 4th December 2024. The competition, run by Speakers Trust and funded by the Jack Petchey Foundation, helps young people develop confidence and communication skills.
Kamal is now one of 38 regional champions vying for a place in the Grand Final at the Cambridge Theatre, London, on 7th July 2025. As Regional Champion, they received a £100 gift certificate and the opportunity to join the ranks of past winners who have gone on to success in media, business, and public speaking.
On winning the Regional Final, Kamal said: “Keep dreaming because your work can make a difference. Believe in your words because they are powerful.”
The competition also recognised Otto Keyte (Vyners School) and Bella Mensah (Swakeleys School for Girls) as runners-up.
The speakers were congratulated by the Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Colleen Sullivan, who said: “Thank you to those who have supported the young people taking part in tonight finals, the teachers, families and friends of the challengers. You will have had a hand in shaping the views and visions of those who have spoken and contributed to their confidence and success.”
