2026 Table Topics Competition

For those who may not know, Table Topics is an impromptu speaking activity where contestants are given a topic, then after (roughly) 5-10 seconds have to give a 1-2 minute speech on the topic. The topics can be anything, and the goal is to speak clearly and coherently on the topic while maintaining a good stage presence and engaging the audience.

I competed in the 2026 Table Topics competition, winning first place in the club, area, and division level competitions! The division level competition was held in Cambridge, Ontario, and had contestants representing clubs from Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Stratford and the surrounding areas.

The competition was a lot of fun, I love practicing public speaking and I especially enjoy Table Topics. The district competition (with individuals from everywhere south of Ottawa) is scheduled for the beginning of May, but my wife and I have a trip planned for Vietnam, so I won't be able to compete. While I'm disappointed that I won't be able to move on, I'm really proud of my performances, and I'm looking forward to the next competition!

David with the District & Division directors First second and third place contestants All table topics contestants

Prompts

These are the prompts I was given at each level of the competition

Club Level

What does courage mean to you?

Area Level

The best we can be.

Division Level

How a good day feels.