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Effective Speaking

Regardless of career, effective speaking skills are often considered essential to success. Whether speaking formally during a presentation or informally to followers and team members, confident effective speaking is a valuable life skill to master.

The Air Cadet League of Canada supports a national effective speaking program, consisting of competitions that range from local, to provincial, to national. Cadets interested in improving their speaking ability and confidence practice regularly with the effective speaking team, culminating in a Squadron-level effective speaking competition. The top two cadets from this competition move on to compete at a Wing-level, and can eventually compete at provincial and national competitions.

For more information on the air cadet league effective speaking competition, check out the effective speaking page on the National Air Cadet League website.

Registration Form

We would like to remind all cadets participating in the Effective Speaking Program to complete the ACL Effective Speaking Competition Registration Form before they compete at squadron competition. The form is available on the National Air Cadet League website under the “Library” tab. It is essential that all cadets participating in the local competition complete this online form, not just the winners advancing to Zones. Please ensure that all forms are submitted by January 15, 2024 to facilitate event planning, participant confirmations, and necessary approvals.

Date Change for Competitions

A significant change for the upcoming year is that all competitions must be held earlier due to the National competition being scheduled earlier. The national winner of the competition will have the unique opportunity to be invited as a special guest to attend the 100th RCAF Anniversary Celebrations in Ottawa!

All local squadron competitions must be completed by February 11, 2024.

Zones Effective Speaking Competition 2024

Provincial Effective Speaking Competition 2024

National Effective Speaking Competition 2024

Exciting Partnership with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF)

In celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) in 2024, we are thrilled to announce our partnership with them for both the choice of topics and judging in the National competition. This collaboration promises to add a unique dimension to the event and create memorable experiences for all participants.

Effective Speaking Topics for 2024

The Effective Speaking topics for 2024, selected in collaboration with the RCAF, are as follows:

  1. Unveiling Unsung Heroes: Remarkable Stories of RCAF Personnel - Highlight the stories of lesser-known individuals within the RCAF who have made significant contributions to Canada's aviation history and their impact on inspiring future generations.

  2. Wings of Change: RCAF's Role in Disaster Relief Operations - Explore how the RCAF has played a vital role in disaster relief missions, both domestically and internationally, showcasing how it has utilized its capabilities to aid in times of crisis.

  3. Breaking Barriers: Diversity's Impact on RCAF's Effectiveness - Discuss the importance of having different kinds of people within the RCAF and how it has influenced the effectiveness of operations, innovation, and the organization's connection with the broader Canadian population.

  4. Innovations in Aerospace: From Hypersonic to Hypoxia Training - Delve into the cutting-edge technological advancements that have propelled the RCAF forward, exploring not only the benefits but also the challenges associated with adopting new aerospace technologies.

  5. RCAF and Arctic Sovereignty: Guardians of Canada's North - Explore the vital role of the RCAF in safeguarding Canada's Arctic region, including its contributions to surveillance, search, and rescue, and maintaining sovereignty over this vital territory.

  6. Guardians of the Final Frontier: RCAF's Role in Space Exploration - Examine the RCAF's involvement in space-related endeavours, including the 3 Canadian Space Division, and discuss the potential future applications of space technology for Canada's defense and beyond.

  7. Air Cadet Program: Forging Future Aviation Leaders - Highlight the significance of the Air Cadet Program in nurturing the next generation of aviation leaders, fostering skills, discipline, and values that contribute to both the RCAF and Canada's aviation heritage.

  8. Cadet’s choice: How would you recognize the RCAF 100th anniversary?

Contact Information

For any inquiries or questions regarding the Effective Speaking Program:


34 Roland J Groome Squadron Schedule and Deadlines


21 Jan 24 – 1900 to 2100 Meet with 2Lt Martin in 212

28 Jan 24 – 1900 to 2100 Meet with 2Lt Martin in 212

4Feb 24 – 1900 to 2100 Meet with 2Lt Martin in 212

11 Feb 24 TBD time Squadron Competition @ Armouries


• On any Monday, if you want a one on one about your speech to practice or provide feedback, please see 2Lt Martin.

• If Mondays are too busy, then we can video chat if you like.

• Please be sure to read the Competition Resources on the effective speaking page