With August 12 marking International Youth Day, a couple of Launceston teenagers are proving age is no barrier when it comes to having your voice heard.

Launceston Church Grammar year 12 student Eamonn Shorter topped the field in the Rostrum National Public Speaking competition this month to claim first prize in senior category, while fellow student Jye Marshall has wrapped filming on a popular tv program.

The former’s public speaking prowess will serve him well in his post-high school career, should he succeed in getting into his chosen course of a music/law degree.

“I’d like to become an agent, whether it be in performing arts or sports,” Eamonn said.

“I feel working a few years in a law firm would be a good experience, because it involves contract negotiating and good speaking skills, which I have worked hard to develop throughout the past few years.”

The 17-year-old has already signalled his intention to move away from Launceston, citing Melbourne or Canberra as his preferred locations of study.

“It’s going to be a bit nerve racking to leave, but when I do go to uni in a different environment, it will be naturally refreshing,” he said.

“I’ve enjoyed my time in Launceston, but I also like to experience different places.”

Like Eamonn, Jye Marshall, has also had the chance to showcase his talents on a national platform.

The 16-year-old is a presenter of Get Arty, a television program designed to aid children in arts and craft projects. Having just returned from filming the second series in Sydney, he said it was a way to combine his two passions.

“I’m really into fashion and presenting, so this is like the ideal job for me,” he said.

“My friends at school have said they really enjoy watching it, as have my family.”

Jye’s classmates would already be well aware of his design talent, with the year 11 student creating his own suit for the annual Launceston Church Grammar Ball held earlier this month. He has also been active behind the camera, taking photos for his school and in his leisure time.

As with Eamonn, Jye said he was open to idea of leaving Launceston to pursue his passions, but added he does not see himself staying away for too long.

“I would like to do a bachelor’s degree and maybe start my own label, so I would probably have to go away for a little bit,” he said.

“I think I would have to come back at some point though, because it is so beautiful here.”