Members prepare to showcase Group Debating skills, in association with SONI Ltd
The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster have a busy programme of competitions and events for the remainder of 2026. One of these competitions is the highly attended Group Debating, which is kindly sponsored this year by SONI Ltd.
Speaking about their continued sponsorship of the organisation, William Sufferin of SONI Ltd said, ““SONI is pleased to sponsor the upcoming Group Debating Competition being hosted by the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster. As an organisation that works with communities across Northern Ireland, we recognise the important role the YFCU plays in developing future leaders and giving young people a platform to share their views and build confidence. We wish all participants every success in this year’s competition.”
This competition is a great opportunity for members to showcase their group debating abilities. Competitors are required to speak on a particular topic chosen by the organisation in advance of the competition. As with most competitions run by YFCU, there are six age categories: 12-14, 14-16, 16-18, 18-21, 21-25 and 25-30, and members are scored on factors such as their platform manner, voice production and delivery, content, delivering techniques and ability to present motion.
The heats for each County take place at the beginning of November and will see hundreds of members from across Northern Ireland come together to compete for a place in the final. The final is scheduled for Monday 23rd November 2026 at Ballymena Academy.
Kristina Fleming, President of YFCU commented, “Group Debating is a fantastic opportunity for our members to share ideas, challenge perspectives and tackle complex issues, while developing their confidence, critical thinking and communication skills. On behalf of YFCU, I would like to sincerely thank SONI for their continued support and sponsorship of this competition. Their support allows us to provide our members with these valuable opportunities to grow, develop and have their voices heard, and we are delighted to have them involved with Group Debating. We are really looking forward to getting our 2026 competition underway on Tuesday 10th November”.
