The Art of Speech

Dear IASAS Friends,

Welcome to the IASAS Forensics Competition!

It is with great excitement that we welcome you to this year’s IASAS Forensics Competition. This gathering is not just an assembly of the region’s most talented speakers and debaters; it is a celebration of the power of words and ideas that connect us across cultures and borders.

The privilege of participating in this competition is a testament to the dedication, intellect, and courage of our young people to stand up and make their voice heard. As competitors engage in debates, deliver speeches, and present your interpretations, be reminded that words have the power to change hearts and minds helping us live in a more just and peaceful world. Embrace this opportunity to showcase your skills, to argue and persuade, to enlighten and be enlightened.

But let us not forget, beyond the intensity of competition, lies the invaluable chance to forge new friendships. The connections you will make during this event, with peers who share your passion for forensics, are just as important as the trophies and accolades. These bonds will support you, challenge you, and inspire you long after the competition ends.

The IASAS Forensics Competition is also a unique platform for growth. It is a space where you can expand your horizons, not only by engaging with diverse viewpoints but also by embracing the rich tapestry of cultures represented here. As you interact and share experiences with students from different backgrounds, cherish the opportunity to grow, not just as competitors, but as global citizens.

Dear IASAS Cultural Convention Forensics & Debate Delegates and Coaches,

Welcome to Bangkok and ISB. We are delighted to be hosting IASAS CC FAD this year and are excited to welcome delegates from all over the region to our campus and participate in the 2024 Forensics and Debate Cultural Convention.

I am pleased and proud that our IASAS organization recognizes and provides a platform for students who excel in the art of debate and public speaking to take the stage and engage in intellectual debate and oral presentation. The skills of argumentation, persuasion, analysis, critical thinking, and clear communication are essential for success in today’s society, and over the course of the next few days, you will see these skills on display by all of our delegates.

Congratulations to all delegates for all of the hard work, practice, and time spent honing your skills (or learning new ones) in the lead-up to CC. I would also like to extend my gratitude to your coaches for the help and support they have given to you throughout your journey to your selection for and, ultimately, participation in the Forensics and Debate CC. We are also thankful to the many ISB faculty and extended community for their help as judges, observers, and audiences over the course of this convention, for without their involvement and attendance, we would not be able to run this great event. In terms of event planning and organization, Mr. Anthony Giles and the team in the activities office deserve special thanks for the coordination and execution of IASAS CC here at ISB. Thank you to site supervisors (insert names here) for ensuring the smooth running of events across the campus.

Long story short: I was a theatre kid. A bubbly personality, mixed with some insecurity, sprinkled with a bit of weird, and a whole lot of hustle. The life of a performer is not for the faint of heart and I knew very quickly my ability to show up, connect with my audience, and convey a strong message was going to be my ticket to success. And it was.

Fast forward a few years and these skills have come in handy to land me careers in a few different fields: non-profit sales, public speaking coaching, and real estate to name a few. I'm obsessed with the idea that we all have a unique way of showing up and if you can get in touch with that inner spark (that inner theatre kid, in my case), it will lead you to more opportunities, better connections, and stronger relationships.

Favorite things: French fries (hot and crispy), funny dog videos on social media, outfits that make me feel fabulous.