Josephian in PESA 2025

The YMCA Plain English Speaking Awards (PESA) 2025 took place from 16 April to 20 August, with the aim of promoting the effective use of spoken English. In the semi-finals and finals, contestants delivered prepared speeches inspired by interactions within experiential learning journeys with special needs individuals. They also faced an impromptu round, in which speakers had two minutes to prepare a speech on a randomly selected topic.

We are proud to announce that Chua Wen Yi Elizabeth (FN603) clinched 3rd Place in the JC/CI/ITE/Polytechnic category. Her prepared speeches, titled “The Rhythm of Real Connection” and “The Hidden Hands Behind Every Dance,” reflected on the friendships made during her Zumba session with YMCA Club Lite, a community for the mentally disabled, and highlighted the often unseen value of care work in fostering inclusion within Singapore.

Elizabeth’s authenticity shone through in both her prepared and impromptu segments, impressing a distinguished panel of judges that included media personalities Mr Steven Chia and Ms Andrea Heng from CNA.

Elizabeth shared, “My PESA journey has been deeply enriching, offering me a greater appreciation of how individuals with special needs are supported within the YMCA community. I am inspired by the dedication and compassion behind this important work, which has broadened my understanding of inclusion in Singapore. At the same time, the competition challenged me to grow as a speaker - cultivating both confidence and eloquence. I am grateful for this opportunity to mature in empathy, insight, and the ability to express my ideas meaningfully.”