About this event
ESY Entrees and their Regional Presidents do not need to register for the event
Join us to support the next generation of professional speakers at the PSA UK & Ireland Emerging Speaker of the Year 2026 Semi-Final, taking place live in Leeds.
All speakers appearing at this event are winners of their regional heats, selected from across the UK and Ireland. They now come together for the semi-final stage of the competition, each delivering a five-minute talk in front of a live audience and judging panel.
From this evening, speakers will be selected to progress to the Emerging Speaker of the Year 2026 Final, which takes place live on the main stage at Impact! 2026 the following day.
What is Emerging Speaker of the Year?
Emerging Speaker of the Year (ESY) is one of the PSA’s flagship competitions, created to help associate members elevate their speaking, sharpen their message, and gain valuable stage experience.
Speakers deliver a five-minute talk. Slides are not permitted, although props may be used. The focus is on clarity, structure, presence and impact.
What to expect
- Live, five-minute talks from regional heat winners
- A supportive, focused atmosphere with a real sense of occasion
- Insight into the PSA speaking competition pathway
- The opportunity to support speakers at a pivotal stage of their development
Why attend?
- Encourage associate members who have already proven themselves at regional level
- Experience high-quality, emerging speaking talent
- Learn by observing short, high-impact talks
- Begin your Impact! 2026 experience connected and inspired
What’s at stake
From this semi-final, selected speakers will progress to:
- The Emerging Speaker of the Year 2026 Final
- A live appearance on the Impact! 2026 main stage
The overall winner of Emerging Speaker of the Year 2026 will receive recognition within the PSA community and a 15-minute main stage speaking slot at Impact! 2027.
Further details and confirmed speakers will be announced shortly.
Find out more about the Emerging Speaker of the Year competition here:
https://thepsa.co.uk/speaker-factor/emerging-speaker-of-the-year-competition/
The venue
Get in touch with the organiser
Carol Benton
