VT Seva Detroit’s 8th Annual Public Speaking Event in collaboration with Speech Showdown 3.0: Inspiring Voices, Empowering Change

Every great movement starts with a voice. At VT Seva’s 8th Annual Public Speaking Event, young speakers step onto the stage to amplify their voices, share impactful stories, and advocate for change. This event is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of expression, leadership, empowerment, and service.

For eight consecutive years, VT Seva has provided a stage where young minds articulate their ideas, develop confidence, and engage with pressing global and social issues. The competition is designed to nurture public speaking skills while fostering awareness about important causes. Through compelling speeches, participants are refining their oratory abilities and embracing their role as changemakers.

What sets this event apart is its deep connection to service. Every speech delivered reflects a commitment to making a difference. This aligns perfectly with VT Seva’s overarching goal—to inspire individuals to take action, contribute to society, and use their skills to uplift others. It’s not just about speaking; it’s about inspiring real change.

Our event began with a welcome from Mr. Raju Bhramandabheri, founder of Speaking Masters LLC. Next, Mr. Suresh Raju introduced VT Seva and our organization’s mission to all those in attendance. VT Seva values education and youth empowerment as two of our key pillars, and our Public Speaking Event is a continuous reflection of VT Seva Detroit’s commitment to the youth of our community.

Our amazing judges for this event were introduced by Mrs. Priya Jaisankar and Mrs. Archita Kramadhati.

Recognition and Beyond

VT Seva Detroit extends its deepest gratitude to Mr. Raju Bhramadabheri for his unwavering support and dedication to the organization’s mission. His contributions have played a crucial role in the success of VT Seva’s Public Speaking event, empowering young minds, and fostering leadership. VT Seva Detroit is honored to have the continued support of Mr. Raju Bhramadabheri, founder of Speaking Masters LLC, and we sincerely appreciate his efforts in helping us amplify our vision of service, education, and empowerment.

We would like to extend our thanks to our judges, Ms. Laura Green, Ms. Stacey Hearn, Mr. Orin M. Lewis, and Ms. Karla Guillen.

Ms. Laura Green has 21 years of experience in education field and understands that public speaking is not just a skill; it’s a gateway to confidence, leadership, and future success. Her commitment to empowering students ensures they find their voice and use it to inspire change. Ms. Green helped our students convey their points and use their voice to express themselves and the views they stand for.

Ms. Stacey Hearn’s path from machinist to a devoted school secretary reflects her love for creating a safe and supportive student environment. Her years of service, both as a volunteer and as a guiding presence in the school, have made her a pillar of warmth and encouragement for students. Her ability to work with students and support their growth made her an excellent judge for our public speaking event.

Mr. Orin M. Lewis is a Level 2 Director at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan with 24 years of industry experience. He is a national First Call Resolution and multi-year Customer Satisfaction award-winning leader with 25+ years of transformational leadership expertise. Mr. Lewis has a bachelor’s degree in Business Management, a black-belt certification in the Lean Six Sigma Methodology, and is a Certified Master Life Coach. He is a graduate of the Americas Health Insurance Plans Minority Management Development Fellowship and a board member of Fresh Perspectives Seminars, a non-profit organization focused on assisting under-served youths with acquiring college funding. His wealth of leadership experience and oratory ability provided a unique perspective to all our participants.

Ms. Karla Guillen is a teacher at Holly High School and an ESL tutor at Graham Elementary School for Avondale Schools. She is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University with a degree in Spanish Language Teaching. Her experience with language and working with students made her an ideal choice to judge this competition and help our participants learn and grow.

Once our competition began, students took to the microphone and delivered their compelling and eloquent speeches. While our winners receive trophies and accolades, every participant walks away with invaluable experience, mentorship, and a stronger voice. Many of our past participants have gone on to become influential and passionate speakers, student leaders, and strong advocates in their communities. Please join us in celebrating all of our event winners!

While winners receive trophies and accolades, every participant walks away with something invaluable—experience, mentorship, and a stronger voice. Many past participants have gone on to become influential speakers, student leaders, and passionate advocates in their communities.

Our top 8 results from the Third to Fifth grade prepared speech competition:

1. Arnav Acharya (Trophy and Certificate) 

2. Vihaan Pawar  (Trophy and Certificate) 

3. Srivibha Dingari  (Trophy and Certificate) 

4. Advika Batchu (Medal and Certficate)

5. Tarini Brahmandhabheri (Medal and Certificate) 

6. Renesh Sreenath (Medal and Certificate) 

7. Anika Dacharaju (Medal and Certificate) 

8. Shreyanshi Singh (Medal and Certificate)

Our top 8 results from the Sixth to Eighth grade extemporaneous speech competition:

1. Loukya Annem (Trophy and Certificate) 

2. Saanvi Rameswarapu (Trophy and Certificate) 

3. Saanvisri Karnakanti (Trophy and Certificate) 

4. Eshan Bulusu  (Medal and Certficate)

5. Adhip Pisapati  (Medal and Certficate)

6. Aishwarya Pasuparthi  (Medal and Certficate)

7. Aaryan V Gajawada  (Medal and Certficate)

8. Sabreesh Velladurai  (Medal and Certficate)

Thank you!

We are deeply grateful to all youth and adult volunteers who made our 8th Annual Public Speaking Competition a resounding success! With all of your support through registrations, donations and pledges were were able to raise funds to support 7 students education for one whole year. From setting up the venue to the final cleanup, your dedication and teamwork were the backbone of this event. Thank you for bringing water, coffee, tea, and snacks to keep everyone refreshed and energized throughout the day. A special shoutout to Mama Eatz for their delicious biryani, adding an extra flavor of joy to the event!

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Blog Written By: Priya Jaisankar