By Merritt Frey, Executive Director

At Mali Rising, we think young people have the ideas and energy needed to change the world. But all too often, these voices are discounted and ignored. That’s why the Speech Up! contest exists — to give young people a forum to share their ideas for real change that will matter to other young people globally.

The Speech Up! video contest asks high school students to create a compelling argument around an important international education issue, and deliver that argument in a short video presentation. Our prompt this year: The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 4.1 states: “By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes.” What are the three most critical changes to the status quo you would propose to help achieve that goal in low-income countries like Mali?

The contest is open to all students in grades 9-12 in public, private, and home schools within the United States. Students create a video speech addressing this year’s theme in 4 minutes or less. Please review the official rules and grading rubric for more direction.

Contest winners receive a cash award, gifts, and online publicity. Winners will also be featured on our website and social media. Awards are as follows:

• First place: $1,000 award and recognition publicized online

• Second place: Gift from Mali and recognition publicized online

• Third place: Gift from Mali and recognition publicized online

• People’s Choice: Fun Mali goodies basket and recognition publicized online

We will begin accepting entries on November 1. For now, students should review the contest rules and rubric on the contest website, explore the tools we’ve provided, and start building their speech! (Please note: We have also gathered lesson plans and other tools for teachers who may want to incorporate Speech Up! into their English, government, civics, social studies, or other classes.)