Somersfield Student Competes in International Public Speaking Competition
October 21, 2024 — Somersfield Academy’s Zarah Siddiqi ‘26, proudly represented the school at the prestigious The International Independent Schools Public Speaking Competition [IISPSC], which kicked off on October 17th. The event, co-hosted by The Bermuda High School and Saltus Grammar School, welcomed 99 students from the USA, Canada, and India, alongside 16 local students, to compete in various public speaking categories.
Zarah joined her fellow Bermudian participants in a series of challenges, including Parliamentary Debate, Impromptu Speaking, and Dramatic Interpretation. Competing against students from 34 schools worldwide, Zarah demonstrated the confidence and critical thinking skills central to Somersfield’s values.
As the competition unfolded across multiple days, it was an opportunity not just to showcase talent, but also to connect with peers from different cultures. The event was attended by local dignitaries and supported by sponsors like the Bermuda Tourism Authority.
Zarah's participation underscored Somersfield Academy’s commitment to developing independent thinkers who thrive in international settings. With the competition continuing through the weekend, her involvement has already left a lasting mark on the event.
Overseas schools attending include:
Ambrae Academy
Balmoral Hall
Branksome Hall
Buckingham Browne & Nichols School
Collingwood School
Crofton House School
Deerfield Academy
Gray Academy
King’s-Edgehill School
Lakefield College School
Lauremont School
MacLachlan College
Mulgrave School
Ridley College
St. Andrew’s College
St. Clement’s School
St. John’s Ravescourt School
Strathcona Tweedsmuir School
The Bishop Strachan School
The Country Day School
The Hotchkiss School
The Roxbury Latin School
The Winsor School
Local schools attending include:
Bermuda High School
Saltus Grammar School
Somersfield Academy
Warwick Academy