the representative of Estonia at the 2024 International Speaking Competition in London
You’re currently a student at Tallinn Secondary School of Science. What other aspects of your background or interests would you like to share with us today?
One aspect of my life that affected me greatly was my father’s death. I lost him when I was 16. Since then a part of me has always wanted to push further, see what else I can do for his sake. Sadly he won’t ever be able to witness my accomplishments. But as long as I speak my mind and continue doing what I love, a part of him will be with me and that part is definitely proud of how far I’ve come.
How much guidance and support did you need while preparing for both the national and international competitions?
I didn’t need much support for the national competitions. I just practised my speech with peers and teachers. That gave me a lot of confidence in my speech. When preparing for the international competition I enlisted the help of the British ambassador in Estonia. I also took a class at Tallinn University about performing. Both of the experiences helped me prepare for the upcoming competition.
Looking back, what stands out as the most memorable moment from the day of the national competition in Tallinn?
I think the most memorable part of the national competition was the impromptu speech heat. It was much more formal than the one in the international competition as well. I greatly enjoyed the pressure and having to think of a speech on the spot.
When you found out that the winner of the national competition was unable to attend the international event, and you were chosen to represent Estonia in London as the runner-up, what were your initial thoughts and emotions?
Initially I was taken aback, because I had already come to terms with the fact that I didn’t win. When the winner came up and asked me to chat I was surprised, but when I found out her intentions I was flattered. It’s amazing that I was given such an opportunity to represent my country abroad. Her speech was very great so I’m glad it got the recognition it deserved. I’m also truly thankful and honoured that she approved of me taking her place in the international competition.
How did Ross Allen, the British Ambassador to Estonia, along with the team from Tallinn University, assist you in preparing for the international competition? Was there any particular piece of advice they offered that stood out to you?
Speaking with Ross Allan helped me narrow down my examples and the subject matter of the speech. His advice assured me that such a speech would have international appeal. Ross Allan is also a very pleasant person to speak to, so I’m very grateful for the opportunity. The Tallinn University team was incredibly helpful. Being given the opportunity to analyse my own body language and mannerisms from a video taken just a few minutes before was crucial. They pointed out some small details in my body language that I could change to improve the presentation of my speech. Overall, the help from Tallinn University and Ross Allan was irreplaceable.
During your time in London, what were some key lessons you learned about public speaking, and how did participating in the competition contribute to your personal growth?
The oracy coaches at the competition mainly focused on improvisation and conveying our message and tone through different techniques. It was definitely eye-opening and made my performances more focused and concise. The competition taught me that I can go incredibly far if I’m determined. The sky’s the limit as they say.
How significant was the support from your family, teachers, and national organizers during the competition in London?
My mother and one of the English teachers from my school were accompanying me on the trip. My mother was very good emotional support, she was there to listen as much as she could and share opinions on my speech and others as well. She is a very honest and smart woman so I can trust her judgement when it comes to things like public speaking. Mrs Vahenurm also accompanied us on the trip. Her judgement and experience were irreplaceable during the trip. I would spend evenings drilling my speeches in their hotel room. The trip would have been immensely more difficult if either of them hadn’t been there.
What advice would you give to the next student who has the opportunity to represent Estonia on such a prestigious platform?
I would tell them to be confident in who they are and what they are talking about. Pick a topic you care about and present it in a way that will speak to people. If you don’t reach the finals, it doesn’t mean your speech was bad. As long as you can get people to speak on the issue and get involved, then in my book you’ve already won. Most importantly, don’t forget where you’re from. Introduce Estonia to people and be proud of our culture. Especially in the times we live in, it is paramount that people know who we are and where we come from.
Lastly, is there anything else you’d like to share or reflect on regarding your experience?
In my opinion, one of the best parts of the experience was meeting other participants. All the other representatives were wonderful and lovely people.
Viktoria was interviewed by Kristi Vahenurm