On Wednesday this week, Otago Girls' hosted the Pacific Voices speech competition. Held at the OBHS auditorium, it was an event that had been planned throughout the year by Darcie Evans-Tobata in her role as Pasifika Prefect. Darcie, with some support from Mr. Eugene Shields and Ms. Dick, created an event that celebrated Pasifika culture and the values that underpin our Tangata o le Moana. Darcie and her team of senior students welcomed young people from across Dunedin and Oamaru as they spoke on issues close to their hearts or  from a topic provided. The junior speech topic was to respond to the idea that "It is important to protect our culture as it is the foundation of our identity." The senior speech topic was to respond to the notion that “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” We were supported by sponsorship from the Ministry of Education; the Pasifika Advisers from Te Pūkenga/Otago Polytechnic, The University Book Shop, and Island Fresh. The competition was initiated in 2018 when Tiare Makenesi created a vehicle for public speaking as part of her Year 12 coursework. Tiare returned as an adjudicator yesterday, while her mother, Kym was our MC. We congratulate all the contestants for their bravery and their wisdom and we look forward to more of our students entering the competition next year as it's an important skill and a wonderful way to celebrate the gift of oratory. Mili Tudreu from Queen's High school won the junior section while her sister, Tima Tudreu won the senior section. The Mother Tongue Language Section was won by Atunaisa Maiono from King's High school.