Lina Surianto was invited to serve as a judge at the Shine a Light speech contest, an event dedicated to nurturing emerging public speakers and celebrating the art of communication.
Evaluating the Next Generation of Speakers
The Shine a Light contest brought together speakers from diverse backgrounds, each sharing their unique stories and perspectives. As a judge, Lina evaluated contestants on their delivery, content, structure, and ability to connect with the audience.
Drawing on her extensive experience as a Toastmasters consultant and public speaking coach, Lina provided thoughtful and encouraging feedback to each participant, helping them identify their strengths and areas for growth.
Why Speech Contests Matter
Speech contests are more than competitions — they are transformative experiences. For many participants, stepping onto that stage represents a personal victory over fear and self-doubt. The supportive environment of a contest like Shine a Light gives speakers a safe space to push their boundaries.
"Every speaker who took the stage showed incredible courage," Lina reflects. "Judging isn't just about picking a winner — it's about recognising the growth journey each person is on and encouraging them to keep going."
Giving Back to the Speaking Community
Serving as a judge is one of the many ways Lina gives back to the speaking community. Her commitment to developing confident communicators extends beyond her coaching practice into active involvement in events that promote public speaking as a life-changing skill.