Our Bureau
Edison, NJ
Over 200 students from Kindergarten to 12th grade came together to speak, shine, and soar at the 3rd Annual Verbal Vortex Public Speaking Tournament, held across Edison and West Windsor last week.
Hosted by Taruna Ramani, TEDx speaker, TEDx speaker coach, and founder of Power Speakers Unlimited and the Verbal Vortex Tournament, the event welcomed young participants to express themselves through speeches, poems, and impromptu challenges.
While younger students brought imagination and heart to the stage through creative speeches and poetry recitations, middle and high school students tackled both prepared speeches and impromptu speaking, where topics were assigned on the spot, challenging students to think quickly and speak with impact.
“Our mission is simple,” said Ramani, “to give every child a platform to be heard. Public speaking is more than a skill—it’s a doorway to confidence, leadership, and future success.”
The event was run through the PSU Foundation, a nonprofit focused on youth empowerment. The finals were judged by a distinguished panel of Toastmasters champions, educators, authors, community leaders, and media professionals.
The tournament was made possible by the dedication of high school volunteers and families who believe in the power of communication.
Following the success of the tournament, Power Speakers public speaking classes will launch in Edison this fall, offering students of all ages the chance to build confidence and communication skills year-round.
For more information on upcoming programs and future events, visit its website.
