London Design and Engineering UTC learner Asad Phillips recently represented the school at the regional final of the Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge, organised by the Jack Petchey Foundation.

The event brought together young people from across the region to share speeches focused on personal experience, confidence and self-expression. Asad delivered a powerful and deeply moving speech reflecting on his experiences with dyslexia and the challenges he has faced with speaking and articulating his thoughts.

Through honesty, courage and determination, Asad spoke openly about overcoming barriers, finding confidence and learning to use his voice. His speech resonated strongly with the audience and judges, highlighting the importance of resilience, self-belief and perseverance. The response from the room was overwhelming, with sustained applause at the end of his speech reflecting the impact of his words and the bravery it took to share his story.

The Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge is designed to support young people in developing confidence in public speaking and self-expression, and Asad’s performance was a powerful example of the programme’s impact in action.

Congratulations also go to the overall winner of the regional final, Jemima Sarker from Sarah Bonnell School.

The evening was supported by a panel of judges including Chelsea Bitonio, Jaden Cabey, James Asser, James Morgan, Kimberleigh Mitchell, Shofa Miah and Zara Farooqi, who played a key role in celebrating and encouraging young voices throughout the event.

Asad’s achievement reflects not only his personal growth and determination, but also the importance of creating opportunities for learners to build confidence, share their stories and develop skills that will support them far beyond the classroom.