The 26th Japanese Language Speech Contest in Ottawa
On Saturday, March 7th, 2015, the Organizing Committee for the Japanese Speech Contest in Ottawa, in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan, was pleased to host the 26th Japanese Language Speech Contest in Ottawa at the Embassy of Japan. The aim of the contest, this year sponsored by the Japan Foundation and Mitsui & Co. (Canada) Ltd, is to promote Japanese language education in Canada.
A total of 24 contestants, including students from Carleton University, University of Ottawa, the Ottawa Japanese Language School and Queen’s University delivered their speeches over the course of the afternoon. Topics ranged from impressions of Japanese culture and customs from a Canadian perspective to the role of the family and the quest for self-discovery. The audience enjoyed speeches that were not only humorous but emotionally compelling. At times, laughter of both contestants and the audience could be heard throughout the auditorium.
Performing speeches in front of a large audience requires a great deal of courage even in one’s mother tongue. However, the chance to present speeches in Japanese can be a rewarding experience, as well as an opportunity to better understand different cultures and gain valuable skills for the future.
In his opening remarks, Minister Karube of the Embassy of Japan noted the countless and long-lasting benefits of learning a language. In addition to being able to converse with new friends and colleagues, learning a language allows you to better understand the culture and society by whom it is spoken.
The top winners of each category (Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced) will represent Ottawa at the 26th Canadian National Japanese Speech Contest to be held on Saturday, March 28th, 2015 at the University of Calgary.
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