Last month, Fundraising & Grants Coordinator Rudri Soni hosted a public speaking workshop for 80 high school students at the California Association of Student Councils (CASC)!

Founded in 1947, CASC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization improving the world’s quality of life by developing skilled, ethical, and empathetic leaders from diverse cultures and backgrounds across California. They offer workshops, leadership conferences, and guided opportunities for youth to write policy proposals to the California State Board of Education. In particular, the Youth Action Summit of California (YASC) is an overnight conference organized annually by CASC at the Westin Hotel—Los Angeles Airport. YASC unites students from their local CASC chapters statewide for three days of workshops, career fairs, and networking opportunities.

On the second day of the conference, Rudri hosted four breakout sessions, all centered around the mechanics of public speaking. Rudri covered Aristotle’s rhetorical triangle, the importance of rhetoric, and how to present with confidence and clarity. Her in-depth presentation placed special emphasis on strategies to mold a speech into advocacy for long-lasting social change. Following the lecture, students gathered in smaller groups where they ideated a novel product and pitched it in a Shark Tank simulation. From makeup brushes to shoes for prom, it was a creative and lighthearted way to practice public speaking in real time.

The third day of the conference was dedicated to the YASC career and networking fair, with attendance from nearly 100 civic organizations statewide. Rudri anchored a table and represented Eloquence Academy. She provided compelling descriptions of the organization, its mission, and its impact. Complete with computer stickers and candy, her table became a lively stop for attendees—an exciting and engaging way to expand our volunteer base and outreach in California!

The results were energizing. YASC concluded with a reflection circle, where participants shared what they learned. Universally, students shared how they felt more confident and empowered to harness voices for positive change in their schools and communities. Their reflections underscored our ultimate goal: by teaching debate, we aim to prepare our students for college readiness, career engagement, and community impact.

We are grateful to the CASC team and Partnerships Program Coordinators May Lee and Felix Nugyen and are proud of what their students accomplished.

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Eloquence Academy, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and 509(a)(2) public charity dedicated to increasing equitable academic debate opportunities for rural and historically underserved students. The Academy offers debate classes, summer camps, workshops, tournaments, in-school programs, and online resources for 2,200+ students across 35 states and 15 countries. Ultimately, EA aims to prepare youth for college readiness, career engagement, and community impact through the transferable skills gained from debate. Follow EA on Instagram and YouTube at @eloquenceacademy.