Jan. 29, 2009 — The Business and Professional Women Organization of St. Croix is giving young people a chance to speak up and, in the process, jump start their careers.
Applications are being accepted for the 2009 Young Careerist Speak-Off Competition, which will be held April 19.
The program provides opportunities for young adults to network, practice their speech presentation skills, and participate in seminars.
"The Speak-Off promises to be fun for the participants, the organizers as well as the supporters and spectators," said event chairperson Sandra L. Setorie.
To be eligible, candidates must be between the ages of 21 and 35, have been employed in business or the professions with at least one full year of full-time work experience, and support the organization's vision to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information.
To apply, candidates must complete a biographical form and return it to the Young Careerist committee no later than Feb. 20. They must also prepare a four-minute speech on a topic to be released shortly.
The Speak Off program and luncheon, which takes place April 19 at Villa Morales Restaurant in Frederiksted, includes a personal interview with a panel of judges. The Young Careerist Candidates will then deliver speeches before members of Business and Professional Women Organization, audience and the panel of judges.
Prior to the Speak Off date, committee members will meet with the candidates to provide information about BPW programs, offer assistance with speech preparation, and assist them in any other possible way.
Further information on the Young Careerist Speak Off can be obtained by contacting chairperson Sandra Setorie at 643-6885 or BPWSTX President Nissa Bailey at 690-2232 or e-mail the committee at [email protected].