BPW/USA 2007-2008 Young Careerist National Speak-Off

While individual state/territory federations have their own guidelines for competition, it is strongly urged by the national committee that Young Careerist Candidates be allowed to individually select any of the speech topics below.  To level the judging field with several topics to select from, it is important to stress that Young Careerist Candidates are judged at every level of competition on the quality of their speech presentation.

FAQ:  Do the local, district/region, or state levels have to select a speech topic from the national list?

Answer:  No.  However, when the state/territory representative participates in the national Speak-off, she/he must speak on a topic from the national list.

FAQ:  Can a state/territory Young Careerist Representative change her/his speech topic prior to the national Speak-off?

Answer:  Yes.  It is important that a Young Careerist Representative be allowed to select  a topic from the approved list about which she/he feels most passionate.  Feedback from past Young Careerist Representatives indicates they were uncomfortable with only one assigned topic.

It is important to note that a copy of the speech the Young Careerist Representative intends to deliver at the national Speak-off must accompany all paperwork sent to the national chair.  This paperwork must be postmarked or e-mailed by June 30, 2008.  No changes can be made after the paperwork is submitted.

Speech Topics

1. What other words could you find for the acronym “BPW” and how does it match or complement “Business and Professional Women”?

2.  Is the United States ready for a female President – why or why not? 

3. What can BPW offer women leaving military service and/or what can women leaving military service offer BPW?

4. How will you use your experience in the YC program to enhance/change your life or influence others?

5. How can men and children help women achieve equality and what responsibilities do women have to educate men and children on the inequalities that exist today for women?

6. Would the new e-member BPW membership be advantageous for a young career professional? Why or why not?

7. How might Young Careerists encourage their colleagues/peers/friends to participate or personally market the program to increase participation and to continue their BPW involvement?

The BPW/USA Mission Statement and the BPW/USA National Legislative Platform are available on the BPW/USA Web site at www.bpwusa.org.  Speeches are to be four minutes in length. No props are allowed and all Young Careerist Representatives will be required to remain at the podium when speaking. For additional information, please see the 2006-2007 BPW/USA Young Careerist Program National Competition Guidelines as posted on the Web site.