Youths today are urged to seize opportunities in public speaking as they exhibit increasing confidence and presence in formal environments. This encouragement comes from Alisi Rabukawaqa, coordinator of the Hibiscus 2025 Queen festival and a past Miss Hibiscus, who observed notable progress in young women participating in this year’s event. Rabukawaqa highlighted the rapid adaptability of contestants to public speaking, despite having limited time to prepare.
Rabukawaqa remarked on the elevated confidence levels among contestants, noting that unlike past generations who had months to prepare and still felt nervous, these young women managed to perform admirably with just weeks or days of preparation. She attributes this heightened confidence partly to the influence of digital media, which fosters regular on-camera interactions, encouraging young people to express themselves publicly.
Digital platforms, where youths routinely engage through live sessions and video content sharing, have contributed to their ease with public speaking. This burgeoning confidence and digital fluency equip today’s youth with the potential to impact their nation positively through their voice and presence.
This growing trend resonates with broader social movements highlighted during events like the Hibiscus Festival, where young women have consistently advocated for crucial social issues. For instance, past participants have used the platform to spotlight women’s health, mental health, HIV awareness, and more, demonstrating the festival’s role in advocacy and community engagement.
Rabukawaqa’s observations emphasize the importance of public speaking as a skill that can empower young individuals to participate actively in societal transformation. The advancements seen in this year’s contestants are a promising sign, indicating that today’s youth are poised to make significant contributions to their communities and beyond. By embracing these opportunities, they foster a culture of confidence and leadership that can lead to meaningful change.