Twenty children who showcased of their ‘knockout’ public speaking skills were hailed as inspiring by Wolverhampton West MP Warinder Juss.
The youngsters spoke passionately about subjects including the power of kindness, how to stop bullying online, never giving up, and overcoming adversity, after being mentored in a groundbreaking scheme that boosted their confidence through boxing.
During the event last Sunday at Tettenhall College, Warinder Juss, MP for Wolverhampton West said: “I personally feel inspired by the things they say. All the things they talk about are things that affect everyone, children, and adults alike.”
He also paid tribute to Jin Atwal, founder of Magical Mind Coaching, who had led sessions supported the children.
“The work that Jin does is absolutely amazing. This is so crucial and important” he said.
“Events like this are so important because they help children to develop confidence, resilience and communication skills.”
As well as Warinder, Wolverhampton City Council’s cabinet member for Children, Young People and Education, Jacqui Coogan also cheered the young speakers on.
Winners and runners up came from Magical Mind Coaching clubs across the city.
The children all took part in a programme called VoiceBOX run weekly for an hour and a half in Whitmore Reans, Blakenhall, and Low Hill. It’s made up of team games to build confidence, boxing to boost resilience and public speaking games to help communication skills.
Judges included Peter Hill, who successfully pitched Deborah Meaden in Dragon’s Den for investment in his innovative pet products in 2018.
Jin launched the scheme after an earlier effort to engage young people in public speaking faltered as he learned children were too scared to attend, so he also incorporated games and boxing. He was inspired by his own childhood difficulties in finding a voice as he grew up in a chaotic home marred by aggression.
Speaking on the impact of the day, he said: “I’m always so proud of the children. Coming up and standing up on this stage is a massive achievement and every single one of them has done an amazing job.
- Winners were:
Juniors:
1st: Aiyana Atwal, 10, The Power of a Positive Mindset – Tettenhall.
2nd: Haadiya Hassam, nine, Mia and the Art Competition, Blakenhall.
3rd: Mahad Ghani, nine, Voice That Took Its Time, Whitmore Reans.
Seniors:
1st: Mia Bedi, 13,GuardX app, Wombourne.
2nd: Deanna Gilmore, 11, Ultimate Smart Bottle, Low Hill.
3rd: Moses Nwogwugwu, 11, Edu Fun App, Blakenhall.
