Barry Sullivan Law Cup Winner
On Friday, April 19, students from across the province travelled to UBC Robson Square in Vancouver to compete in the Barry Sullivan Law Cup, a public speaking competition hosted by the Canadian Bar Association. The topic for this year's competition was to consider what responsibility, if any, should Canada bear in respect of refugees.
Sara Gray, a Grade 12 student at Kelowna Christian School, made history by winning the first-place trophy at the Barry Sullivan Law Cup. This is a significant milestone for Kelowna Christian School, marking the first time a student has not only competed but also emerged victorious in this prestigious competition. The final judging panel, comprising esteemed figures such as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of BC, the former dean of UBC Law School, and the current president of the Canadian Bar Association - BC branch, praised Sara's ability to address key Canadian issues, heralding a new generation of excellent advocates.
Sara's persuasive and well-researched speech was delivered with incredible poise. It was a pleasure to see her efforts rewarded with a first-place finish. This is the first time a KCS student has won, and it has been years since the trophy has been won by a student outside of the Lower Mainland.
A couple of months ago, my school principal emailed me about the possibility of taking part in the Barry Sullivan Law Cup, a public speaking competition put on by the Canadian Bar Association. I've always had a passion for giving speeches, and public speaking in general, so I agreed right away! I started researching right away with the help of my coach, Ms. Mrozek, and then workshopped the speech until I felt it gave a concise yet robust response to the question. When we arrived at the competition, we were divided into five rooms of eight students, from which one finalist each would be selected. I was excited to find out that I had been chosen as a finalist, and so I gave my speech again in the auditorium in front of everyone in attendance. I was absolutely amazed by the quality of all the speeches given, and it was an amazing experience to be able to go and listen to so many people's thoughts on such an important topic. Ultimately, I was thrilled to be chosen as the winner, and I'm incredibly grateful to Mr. Klassen and Mrs. Mrozek for putting in the time and effort to make this experience a possibility for me!
Sara Gray, Grade 12 student
Sara and her coach, Ms. Mrozek
With The Hon. Judicial Justice Alison Campbell, 1st winner of the Barry Sullivan Law Cup.
Sara with the final round judges
- The Hon. Chief Justice Christopher Hinkson of the Supreme Court of British Columbia
- Dr. Catherine Dauvergne, KC, UBC Peter A. Allard School of Law
- Scott Morishita, President of the Canadian Bar Association, BC Branch
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Comments 1
Guest - Jessie Davis
on Thursday, 25 April 2024 15:08
Congratulations Sara!!