Welcome to the panel, Cecilia Knapp

On Monday 10th July, Jack Petchey’s Speak Out Challenge Grand Finalists will take to the stage of the Cambridge Theatre. Every speech is unique and inspiring in its own way, making it an incredibly tough decision to determine who the next Jack Petchey’s Speak Out Challenge Grand Champion will be.

The panel consists of artists, presenters, athletes and campaigners all known for using their voice to create change. They will judge the competition based on the content, delivery, structure and positive impact of each speech and help us crown this years winner.

In no particular order, let’s meet the judges! 

Cecilia Knapp is a poet, playwright and novelist and the Young People’s Laureate for London 2020/2021. She teaches creative writing in a variety of settings. She was resident poet at Great Ormond Street Hospital for two years and is lead tutor for the Roundhouse’s prestigious poetry collective.

We asked Cecilia, in your experience, what does it mean to find your voice?

“To realise that your story and your perspective is important, no matter who you are. It is a valuable contribution to the world and helps us all become more connected. To find your voice is to find a way to express yourself in your unique way, in a way that feels right for you.”

Why is empowering young people important to you?

“Too many young people don’t feel like creativity is for them. But if we don’t ensure everyone can have access to creativity, then we will only ever be hearing from a small section of society. Everyone should be entitled to the empowerment and the many benefits that comes from sharing your voice. Everyone can do it- there is no wrong answer.”

What does communication mean to you? 

“Creative communication isn’t just about sharing information. It is about finding the language to express something inexpressible. It is about making something felt. It is about generating empathy.”

Thinking about our young speakers, how can they provoke the change they want to see in the world?

“Never underestimate the power of writing to cut to the heart, to expose the truth and to make a difference.”