Speech Contest 2026 Winners

On November 9th, the Manatee River Soil and Water Conservation District Board held their annual Speech Contest! This year’s theme was, “From Source to Sea. Every Drop Has A Journey.” Students from Manatee County presented speeches focusing on Florida’s water systems and their importance in our community, please help us celebrate our winners!

First Place: Sophia Austine from Parrish Community High School

First Place: “Beneath Our Boots”: Florida’s Hidden Gem, presented by Sophia Austine from Parrish Community High School

A group of people poses for a photo, with a woman holding a "Second Place" certificate, celebrating an achievement.

Second Place: Protecting Florida Aquifers by Preserving Watersheds and Reducing Water Usage, presented by Amanda Hakes

A group of people poses for a photo at an event where a woman holds a "Third Place" certificate and check.

Third Place: Drop by Drop We Make A Difference, presented by Destiny Altoro from Palmetto High School

A group of people stands together, with a young woman holding a first-place award in a meeting room.

Middle School First Place: The Downstream Impact, presented by Ethalia Vasquez-Navarro from Lincoln Memorial Middle School