Annual Perry Rotary Preston Johnson Speech Contest
Saturday, March 30, 2024
By Marietta P. Olaivar- Lomboy DNP
Annual Perry Rotary Preston Johnson Speech Contest: Fostering Hope and Integrity in Houston County Youth
Perry, Georgia - March 30, 2024

The Perry Events Center was abuzz with youthful energy and eloquence as the Annual Rotary Preston Johnson Speech Contest unfolded on March 30, 2024. This prestigious event, open to all high school students in Houston County, serves as a platform for young minds to express their thoughts on themes vital to Rotary International's mission of service and community building. This year, participants had the choice of delving into two impactful topics: the timeless principles of the "Four-Way Test" or Rotary's overarching theme, "Create Hope in the World."
Rotary International, founded in 1905, has been dedicated to promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, supporting education, and alleviating poverty across the globe. The Rotary Preston Johnson Speech Contest stands as a microcosm of this commitment, empowering local youth to articulate their visions for a better world.
The winners of this year's contest demonstrated exceptional insight, eloquence, and passion:
• First Place: Reed Black, Westfield High School
• Second Place: Gianna Castro, Houston County High School
• Third Place: Joy Sanders, Warner Robins High School
Other Contestants:
Aiden Carter, Northside High School
Ingrid Diaz, Warner Robins High School
Sar Phaw, Warner Robins High School
Htoo Paw, Warner Robins High School
Reed Black captivated the audience with his poignant reflections on the power of truth and integrity in building trust and fostering meaningful relationships using the principles of the Four-Way Test. Joy Sander's speech resonated with hope and optimism, emphasizing the transformative impact of small acts of kindness and compassion. Gianna Castro impressed the judges with her eloquent portrayal of converting her passion into a mission to give hope to others, creating a brighter future for communities in her school and worldwide.
As the winners, Reed Black, Gianna Castro, and Joy Sanders, advance to the Zone competition on April 13th at Georgia Christian School in Valdosta, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of their peers and mentors. Their voices serve as beacons of inspiration, reminding us all of the potential for positive change that resides within each young heart and mind.
Congratulations are in order not only for the winners but for all participants who bravely stepped onto the stage, shared their perspectives, and contributed to the rich tapestry of ideas woven at the Annual Rotary Preston Johnson Speech Contest. In their diversity of thought and expression, these students embody the spirit of Rotary's commitment to service, fellowship, and the pursuit of a brighter tomorrow.
Thank you to our participants, parents/families, teachers, support group from different schools, judges, Perry Rotarians, Rotary District Governor 6920 Dr. Felix Smith, PDG Heather Kellen, City of Perry, and everyone involved in making this event a success.