Students from Potosi High School’s FFA chapter took a big step in developing their leadership and public speaking skills by attending their first fall speaking conference of the year at Belle High School on Wed., Oct. 22.
The event brought together FFA chapters from across the region, offering students the opportunity to participate in workshops, meet FFA fellow members, and practice essential communication skills in a supportive environment.
Before the convention, FFA sponsor Mrs. Nickleson said, “I have never been to an FFA fall speaking contest before, so I am very excited to see how it all works. I believe my students are going to deliver excellent speeches!”
The fall speaking conference included sessions on speech delivery, confidence building, leadership in agriculture, and the importance of advocacy within the FFA. Students heard from experienced speakers and FFA alumni, as well as participated in group activities designed to sharpen their speaking and teamwork abilities.
For many of the Potosi students, it was their first time participating in an FFA event while others have been doing it for a few years.
Senior Harlee Kley said, “To be honest, I really didn’t know how to feel before doing my first public speaking contest. I was nervous, but then shook that off once I got there and just relaxed until myself it’s gonna be what it’s gonna be. After the first girl came out of the room, she talked about how bad she did, so it gave me enough confidence to go in there and be truly me and that’s what I did.”
Kley’s performance was confident enough to earn her the opportunity to compete at districts on Thurs., Nov. 13 in Rolla, along with senior Myla Blair.
The Potosi FFA chapter looks forward to building on this experience as they continue into the fall season, with upcoming contests, service projects, and leadership events on the calendar.
