Youths vying in speech

Amazing speeches and empowered youths- another NAMF success story


On Saturday, April 5th, 2008, the seventh annual NAMF speech competition and Fundraising dinner was held. It was a resounding success! The topic this year was: 'Is the media the primary cause of youth violence in Canadian society?' Students were invited from more than 100 public and private schools across the GTA.
While the preliminary did not happen due to insufficient applicants, the finals saw nine enthusiastic speakers vying for the three top prizes: laptops, Psps and Mp3 players respectively. The judges described the competition as “tight”, with each participant doing their very best to win one of the popular prizes. The presentation showed individuality, sincerity, careful research, and distinct points of view. All were well delivered.
The caliber of presentations was excellent and every speaker deserved to win. The judges were Mr. Nadeem Memon, a PhD candidate at OISIE/UFT, who teaches at Centennial College; Mr. Omar Zia, who holds a Masters in Education and teaches in the Peel District School System and Mr. Mark Persaud a lawyer and community leader.
In the primary category (grades 6 to 8) the first prize went to Daniya Muhammadi. Rehan Khan topped the secondary school category. In attendance was the honorable Minister of Labor of Ontario, Mr. Brad Duguid. He applauded the efforts of the ‘nervously seated’ students and emphasized the value of competitive challenges, like this one, as it marks a bright future for Canadians, an issue he is dearly committed to.
Pride was evident on the faces of many parents and supporters. At the intermission NAMF Islamic Academy presented a wonderful choral recitation.
Funds raised at the dinner will go towards NAMF’s new building. Special thanks to all the donors and our generous sponsors Alimas Roti, Deen Pharmacy and Scouts Canada.
An educator attending with her family commented: ‘NAMF must be commended for providing this valuable educational opportunity for youths. Events like this develop communication skills in young people and give them an opportunity to express themselves freely. This goes beyond ordinary classroom instruction and actively involves students in creating a better world.’

Brother Ashraf from IMO, a former popular venue of this event, said: We definitely need to encourage our young ones as Ilm is power and the vibrancy to deliver it is a skill; indeed events like this will nurture deliverance and will be of great encouragement for our young ones and greatest of pleasure for parents!