Hosted by Jack and Jill of America, Inc, Southwest Florida Chapter
The Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Southwest Florida Chapter proudly hosted its first-ever Ann Owen Gordon Oratorical Competition at Dunbar High School, celebrating the power of oratory and the brilliance of Black youth.
This event, which will become an annual tradition, featured 20 talented participants competing in three categories:
Rising Voices Showcase (Ages 5-9) & Speak Up, Speak Out Showcase (Ages 10-12)
Theme: The Crown We Carry, The Legacy We Leave
Most Outstanding Speaker: Ms. Jordyn Scott
Ann Owen Gordon Oratorical Competition (Ages 13-18)
Theme: Black Brilliance, Rise and Shine: Our Future We Define
1st Place: Ms. Jayden Davis
2nd Place: Mr. Jonathan Tobler
3rd Place: Ms. Lydia-Joi Holloway
Winners received monetary prizes, trophies, certificates, and exclusive interviews on Lee Pitts Live. All participants were recognized for their dedication, and medals were awarded to younger contestants.
The competition was made possible through months of preparation, guided by Toastmasters speaker and Jack and Jill alum, Mr. Philip Wilkerson, along with the Oratorical Chair, Mrs. Marsha Reid, and committee members Ms. Tenisia Tyre and Mrs. Prudence Minton.
A special thank you to our distinguished judges for their time, expertise, and thoughtful evaluations:
Ms. Veronica Barber, Ms. Lashaun Collier, Mr. Jarrett Eady, Ms. Gwynetta Gittens, Judge Archie Hayward, Mrs. Sonya McCarter, Pastor Dr. Terry Mobley, and Mrs. Janelle Sparrow
We are also grateful to our guest speaker the legendary Ms. Cleaster Mims, community sponsors, Mr. Carl Burnside, Principal of Dunbar High School, Mrs. Jacquie Matthews Williams of Jacquie’s Event Photos, and Charlene De’Towe of Studio 4:13 Photography for their support in making this event a success.
As we reflect on this incredible inaugural event, we look forward to expanding the competition, engaging more young speakers, and continuing to empower future leaders for years to come.
About Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is a membership organization of mothers dedicated to nurturing future African-American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving, and civic duty. Founded in 1938, the organization continues to empower children through a wide array of enriching programs and activities. For more information regarding Jack and Jill of America, Inc. visit their website at JackandJillinc.org.
For media inquiries, please contact: Autumn Watkins Holloway Chapter President Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Southwest Florida Chapter At SWFLJJOA@gmail.com or (239) 898-7577.
