Sri Lankan teen wins prestigious International public speaking competition

Colombo, May 23 (Daily Mirror) - Sixteen-year-old Sashane Dassanayake has brought global recognition to Sri Lanka by winning the 2025 International Public Speaking Competition, held at the English-Speaking Union (ESU) International Headquarters, Dartmouth House, London, from May 12 to 16.

Competing against students aged 16–20 from over 50 countries—including the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia, Sashane impressed judges with a powerful and reflective speech that balanced emotional intelligence, global awareness, and a compelling personal narrative.

A student of Lyceum International School, Nugegoda, Sashane began his journey with regional and national rounds in Sri Lanka, where his charismatic delivery and insightful content consistently won acclaim. His final speech in London stood out for its clarity, depth, and persuasive strength.

The ESU Sri Lanka, founded in 1981 by the late Dr. T.P. Amerasinghe, organizes annual workshops and coaching sessions on public speaking, culminating in a national competition judged by an independent panel. The national winner then represents Sri Lanka at the international finals in London each May. The ESU International is presided over by HRH Princess Anne, The Princess Royal.

Sashane was welcomed at Bandaranaike International Airport by ESU Sri Lanka President Tilak Amerasinghe, General Secretary Yasmin Nimaladasa, his family, teachers, and schoolmates.

 “I am deeply honored to bring this title home to Sri Lanka. This platform gave me the voice to speak not just for myself, but for many young people across the world who are passionate about creating change,” Sashane said speaking to the media.

Tilak Amerasinghe said that Sri Lanka last claimed the world title in 2000.

“After a 25-year gap, Sashane has brought pride and honor not only to our nation but also to the ESU of Sri Lanka,” he said. “This victory highlights the potential of South Asian youth voices in shaping global discourse,” he said.

The International Public Speaking Competition is the largest of its kind, involving over 100,000 students across various stages from more than 50 countries worldwide.