Speech Trek, an annual speech contest, began in 2007 and was AAUW California’s signature high school program. It was open to female and male high school (grades 9-12) students. The contests begin at the branch level. First-place winners’ videos from each participating branch were then uploaded for judging. The top three contestants advanced to the state finals & competed for cash awards.
Speech Trek 2025 was AAUW’s the last statewide contest. The topic was:
Climate change is happening. The effects are widespread and touch upon almost all aspects of our life on this planet. Select one area of impact and explore the effect climate change is having on women in the USA, and around the world.
The 2025 state contest prize amounts were:
1st: $2500
2nd: $2000
3rd: $1000
4th: $500
5th: $500
On February 15, 2025, we held our La Mesa-El Cajon Branch Speech Trek contest. Four high school students participated. Our first-place winner was Isabella Guevara. Isabella’s speech was videoed and sent to the California state semifinals. It was an inspiration and pleasure to see and hear these young speakers!