The competition was won by Omar Hazari of Sri Lanka, while Theodora Todoran of Romania finished second. The other finalists were Olivia Wright (Australia), Jordan Albert Williams (Bermuda), and Konstantin Svilokos (Serbia).
London, United Kingdom: Ian Karlton Muyimba, an 18-year-old representing Uganda, has finished third at the English-Speaking Union’s (ESU) International Public Speaking Competition (IPSC) 2026, one of the world’s largest and most prestigious public speaking contests.
The Grand Final was held on July 17 at the Royal Institution in London, bringing together national champions from 45 countries and regions after more than 100,000 students participated in preliminary competitions worldwide.
Contestants delivered speeches inspired by the theme “Lighting One Candle,” a haiku by renowned Japanese poet Yosa Buson.
‘A Dream Come True’
Speaking after the competition, Muyimba described representing Uganda on the global stage as a life-changing experience.
“Opportunities to come to London don’t usually come to Uganda, especially for a young person like me. But to be chosen to come and participate in the biggest public speaking competition is a dream come true.”
He added: “I believe that I’ve held the pen and I’ve been given the paper, and I’ve written the first sentence about the next story of my country, and that sentence began in London.”
The finalists were assessed on their public speaking ability, critical thinking, originality and delivery before an international panel of judges.
Head judge Zaven Kouyoumdjian, a Lebanese journalist, broadcaster and author, praised the quality of the finalists’ performances, saying: “Public speaking is all about having the courage to share your ideas, to find your voice, and to create a connection with others.”
He added that the passion displayed by contestants from different cultures demonstrated that shared values and aspirations unite young people around the world.
Besides competing, participants took part in a week-long programme of cultural and educational activities across London. The programme included visits to Tate Modern, London County Hall, and intensive public speaking workshops conducted by experienced communication professionals.
Established in 1980, the International Public Speaking Competition is organised annually by the English-Speaking Union (ESU) to promote effective communication, cultural exchange and international understanding.
Over the past four decades, the competition has grown into the world’s largest international public speaking contest, engaging more than 100,000 young people from over 40 countries each year.
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