Questions & answers
Everything you might be wondering
Still unsure after reading? Email us — Coach Priya is happy to talk it through.
What does it cost?
There is one fee per 12-week level. Email Destinationspeechimp@gmail.com and we will send you the current fees for the level you are considering — a deposit holds the spot and is credited to tuition, with the balance due on the day of Orientation.
My child is shy — will this work?
Shy speakers are exactly who this is built for. Several of DSI's Distinguished Youth Leaders arrived described as “shy and reserved” or “very reserved.” With a maximum of seven children in the room and a pre-assigned role at every meeting, confidence is built in small, manageable reps rather than one terrifying leap.
How big are the groups?
Seven children, maximum. Comparable youth leadership programs average around fifteen. The small size is the whole point: every child speaks at every meeting and gets coached individually.
Where do you meet, and is there an online option?
Workshops are hybrid. Attend in person at Mercerville Hall, 2333 Whitehorse Mercerville Road, Suite C, Hamilton Township, NJ 08619, or join live online — whichever suits your family.
When are sessions, and how long are they?
Sessions run on Sundays for 1½–2 hours, twelve times per level. The agenda is packed to the minute with every child assigned a speaking role, so we start on time to end on time — though a meeting can run slightly long depending on speech lengths.
What if we miss a week?
Attendance at 11 of the 12 meetings is important, and 10 are mandatory. Because every child holds pre-assigned roles each week, an absence affects the whole group — so please only sign up if you can commit fully to the spot.
Does my child have to start at Level 1?
Starting at the Competence level is strongly recommended, since it establishes the roles and the meeting structure everything else builds on. Registration directly into Bronze is considered case by case — just ask.
What is DSITalks?
The Grand Finale of every 12-week level: a live speech show and contest where every participant presents in front of family and independent judges. Best Prepared Speaker is awarded there; Best Impromptu Speaker or Extempore Debate MVP is decided by the cohort on Day 11.
Is there homework?
Yes, and it is light but real. When your child is assigned Speaker they write their speech at home — we strongly encourage children to write their own. As Leader of the Day they prepare a tongue twister and six open-ended questions (Competence), or a Word of the Day and a pros-and-cons issue slide (Advanced). As Evaluator, nothing is needed in advance.
What is a Distinguished Youth Leader?
DSI's highest educational award, earned by completing all four levels — Competence, Bronze, Silver and Gold. That means 25+ prepared speeches, 40 impromptu, 16 evaluations, four turns as Leader of the Day, service as a Coach's Assistant, and verified community service. Twelve young people have earned the plaque since 2021.
Is this public speaking or leadership?
Both, deliberately. Children give speeches, but they also chair meetings, moderate debates, facilitate discussions, evaluate peers and recognise others. The Gold level requires five verified volunteer hours of community service — leadership, practised.
Do you run summer or travel workshops?
Yes — travel and summer workshops are available on request. They sit outside the four-level youth ladder, so email Destinationspeechimp@gmail.com and we will tell you what is running.
How do I register?
Download the 2026 Program Booklet (PDF), complete the registration form on the final page, and email the scan to Destinationspeechimp@gmail.com. We will confirm the deposit that holds the spot. One form covers every child in the family.
Ready to see your child on that stage?
Email Coach Priya your child's grade and a line about them. You'll get the current fees, the next start date, and an honest answer on whether this is the right level — within 1–2 business days.