Gabrielle Thurston
Speech New Zealand is a family to me. I’ve been involved with the organisation in one way or another for nearly fifty years.
The most rewarding moments for me have come from my being an examiner for Speech New Zealand and the many talented candidates I have met and what I have learnt from them. Often in a quiz situation I ponder as to where my recall has come from — lo and behold it has come from a candidate’s talk.
Over the years I have watched and listened to a demonstration on how to skin a freshly thawed possum carcass (not my most memorable examination encounter) to make all sorts of delicious culinary dishes, learnt the best ways to travel cheaply, where the best hiking tracks are in New Zealand, and heard persuasive talks on every relevant issue imaginable — I think I know more about climate change than any politician!
I have listened and enjoyed drama selections, wide ranges of poetry, novel selections and descriptive story telling. I have come to realise these candidates are New Zealand’s future and they know how to communicate by owning and using their voices. A day examining young candidates leaves one feeling very positive and enlightened whilst older candidates exude confidence and potential gaining much admiration for their ability to put themselves outside their comfort zone and challenge themselves.
I am confident I have supported young teachers and examiners as they come through Speech New Zealand enabling them to equip themselves for the challenges of teaching and examining. People are often time poor and a helping hand of encouragement is needed from your colleagues.
Sixty years is a phenomenal achievement Speech New Zealand, you have certainly helped our Nation to communicate. I feel privileged to have been a small part of the organisation’s goals and achievements.
Congratulations and hearty best wishes for the future.
