Fostering Confidence and Articulation through Public Speaking
The three-day annual International Sikh Youth Symposium organized under the auspices of the Sikh Youth Alliance of North America (SYANA) took place in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. The symposium, held at the esteemed Gurdwara Sahib Charlotte, drew the participation of 60 enthusiastic attendees from both the United States and Canada.
Fostering Growth and Expression Since 2000
Kuldeep Singh, the national convener of the Symposium and SYANA, shared that this event has been a tradition since the year 2000. Functioning as an annual public speaking and debate competition, the symposium focusses on Sikh youth from the United States and Canada. Its primary objective is to create a nurturing environment where young Sikhs can enhance their skills in public speaking, oral and written communication. Notably, the symposium encourages the exploration of Sikh history and philosophy alongside the development of these essential skills. The event offers a platform for youth to delve into a range of topics, spanning from fundamental aspects of Sikhism to an in-depth study of Gurbani, thereby fostering a reconnection with the core tenets of the Sikh faith.
Levels of Excellence: From Local to International
Kuldeep Singh further elaborated that the public speaking competition is open to children aged 6 to 22. The dynamic competition unfolds in three progressive levels: local, regional and international. It commences at the grassroots, with local competitions spanning various cities across North America. The stakes then rise to the state-level, where the competitions are divided into 13 regions spanning the United States and Canada. The winners of these regional contests advance to the international level, held in August every year.
Nurturing the Speakers of Tomorrow
The participating children are categorized into five age groups, each receiving a designated book to study. An immersive learning experience awaits, as they not only read but also answer three challenging questions. The answers to these questions serve as the foundation for their eloquent speeches, lasting between 6 to 7 minutes. While the first four groups engage in prepared speeches, the fifth group participates in a debate centered around a yearly chosen topic.
Enlightening Discourse and Youthful Wisdom
On the first day, groups 1 to 3 delivered speeches before the sangat and a panel of judges. These speeches were based on three questions derived from the books for each group: “Basic knowledge of Sikhism”, second “Sikh Sakhis for the Youth”, and third “The Turban.” On the subsequent day, group 4 presented their speeches based on the book “Guru Granth Sahib – A Supreme Treasure.”
Debating the Path Forward
Group 5, comprising youth aged 16 to 22, engaged in a spirited debate. Guided by the topic “Sikh Way of Life / Sikh Rehat Maryada and Gurbani,” these young minds dedicated nearly 3 hours to answering questions, presenting opening statements, articulating responses, and offering closing statements. Dr. Satpal Singh, a distinguished figure from Buffalo, New York skillfully moderated the discussion.
Celebrating Achievement
A celebratory banquet and dinner were held at the Discovery Place Science Museum auditorium in downtown Charlotte, honoring the regional winners. The audience also enjoyed the play “Sparrow and the Pippal” by the Sikh youth from Charlotte, based on the story books “Fascinating Folktales of Punjab” written by Gurmeet Kaur. A Gursikh traveler and motivational speaker Nishan Singh from Australia appreciated the organization of such programs and congratulated all the participants and organizers for the event. The event’s vibrancy was further elevated through engaging sports and recreational activities, fostering an atmosphere of unity and shared enjoyment.
A Successful Culmination: Recognizing Brilliance
The symposium culminated with the announcement of results during the Kirtan Darbar at Gurdwara Sahib on the final day. Kesar Singh from Mississauga, Pahul Kaur from New Jersey, Tejas Singh from Texas, Jasleen Kaur from Texas & Amanat Kaur from Seattle (joint winners, group 4), along with Sehaj Singh from Hamilton, Canada emerged as first-place winners across groups 1-5. In recognition of their participation, all attendees were bestowed with a special distinguished speaker plaque.
The 2023 International Sikh Youth Symposium transcended geographical borders, igniting the flames of knowledge, expression, and unity among Sikh youth, thereby fortifying the foundations of their faith and identity.
SYANA International Symposium 2023 Video: https://youtu.be/Bt3Mqyy1Jc
