StorySiri – My Story, My Values
The success of this year’s competition has strengthened plans to establish the event as an annual highlight in the Brisbane chapter’s calendar. Organisers have expressed interest in expanding future editions through partnerships with local schools, youth organisations and community groups.
by Saketh Manda
The Basava Samiti Chapter hosted a vibrant and inspiring public speaking competition on 8 November, drawing a diverse group of young participants from across the community for an evening dedicated to confident communication, cultural reflection and value-based expression.
The event forms part of the organisation’s ongoing commitment to promoting education, empowerment and ethical leadership among youth. Participants were invited to reflect on real-life situations where they had demonstrated values drawn from the teachings of 12th-century social reformer Guru Basava, whose principles of equality, compassion, integrity and social responsibility remain central to the Charity’s mission. Throughout the evening, students delivered speeches highlighting moments of personal growth, acts of kindness, and lessons learned from their everyday experiences.
Audience members praised the high calibre of speeches, noting the strong organisation, clarity and composure shown by the speakers. These contestants incorporated personal anecdotes to demonstrate how Basava’s teachings continue to inspire decision-making in modern life, giving their speeches a sense of authenticity and emotional depth that resonated with the audience.
Organisers emphasised that the purpose of the competition extends far beyond the development of public speaking techniques. “Our focus is on giving young people a platform to express themselves,” an event coordinator said. This program brings Basava’s ideals into a contemporary community setting and encourages young people to think deeply about the values they want to embody.
The event drew a warm and supportive crowd of families and community members, who applauded each speaker and fostered an encouraging atmosphere for both new and experienced participants. In keeping with the Charity’s inclusive approach, every speaker received appreciation, acknowledging their effort and courage. Every performer was also recognised for outstanding content, delivery and confidence, reflecting the event’s emphasis on both skill and substance.
The success of this year’s competition has strengthened plans to establish the event as an annual highlight in the Brisbane chapter’s calendar. Organisers have expressed interest in expanding future editions through partnerships with local schools, youth organisations and community groups.
These collaborations aim to broaden participation, provide additional opportunities and continue fostering leadership skills grounded in cultural, ethical and community-focused values.
As the evening concluded, many attendees praised the event for creating a space where young voices could be heard, celebrated and empowered. The competition not only showcased emerging talent but also underscored the enduring relevance of Basava’s teachings in shaping confident, thoughtful and socially conscious young leaders.
Basava Samiti Asia Pacific conducted this event in two cities in Sydney on the 16th November 2025 and in Brisbane on the 8th November 2025. Both cities rejoiced the reflections and adoption of the values. Sydney also welcomed the speakers of the Batch 6 Learn2Grow Program, CEO Talk from Mr.Emmanuel Musoni, Executive Manager GALPD graced by three councillors from the Blacktown city council.
