A schoolgirl was crowned winner of a public speaking competition last night.

Nia Muhammad of Epping St John's in Bury Lane, Epping, took to the stage at the west Essex final of the Jack Petchey Speaking Out challenge and impressed judges with an impassioned speech entitled 'Why Do You Judge Me?"

The year 10 student gave a heartfelt speech on stereotypes she feels she faces in today's society and why she wants to change that.

Competing against 13 other students, who had beaten thousands to reach the regional final, Miss Muhammad took home the only perfect score of the night.

Passmores Academy's Adam Olath took home second place with his confident speech on 'the enemy of the people', which turned out to be white bread, and Shenfield High School's Robyn Smith took home third with her speech on 'Selfies'.

Epping Forest Guardian:

Passmores Academy's Adam Olath came in second.

A virtual semi-final on June 7 will see Nia's speech replayed to a team of judges who will select 15 grand finalists from the 37 Borough champions who have won their regional heat this year.

If successful, Nia will head to London's Piccadilly Theatre on July 6 where she will speak in front of eight celebrity judges with the chance of winning the grand prize of £5,000 – £2,000 to the winner in the form of a bursary and £3,000 to the winner’s school.

Epping Forest Guardian:

Shenfield High School's Robyn Smith took home third place.

Father, Mr Muhammad said: "Nia worked so hard for this and truly believes in what she spoke about.

"As her parents, we are so proud but Nia did this by herself.

"She wrote all of it."

Guest judge Jo Roberts, CEO of the Wilderness Foundation said: "To hear and watch vibrant youth, speak from their hearts on matters that matter to them, gives real hope for the future. 

"It takes courage, confidence and passion.

"I am honoured to have been included to support and help."