By Eric White

ON Tuesday 10th May, Year 10 pupil, Isha Abdul, represented St Mark`s at the West Essex regional finals Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge.

This prestigious event was hosted by the King Harold Academy in Waltham Abbey.

The event was hailed as ‘a wonderful night`, by town clerk, Kathryn Richmond.

Speakers were described as, `passionate and enthusiastic` by Louis Walton youth engagement assistant officer, Epping Forest.

Forest. I certainly agree. The different topics were inspiring and current, speakers were confident and had worked very hard to achieve their place in the finals.

All of the speakers put aside their nerves and delivered passionate and interesting speeches.

Isha performed her speech, `Yester-me`, which inspired the audience with a positive message about change.

Isha worked hard over the months, editing, practising and thinking of the best way to deliver her message through hours of research and studying past contestants.

She took home an award and definitely made St Mark’s proud.

St Mark’s would also like to say thank you to Ms McGuinness and Miss Incedal for accompanying and supporting them throughout this amazing process.

Also praise must be given to Isha`s family and friends who supported her and raised the atmosphere!

It was no doubt an evening that will remain in the memories of many guest competitors and teachers for many years to come.

Credit: Charmaine Kangwende