December 12 – SBS Radio today announced the winners of the SBS National Languages Competition 2018 – a nationwide initiative which aims to inspire and encourage language learning and retention. The competition received nearly 4000 entries from all states and territories across Australia spanning 82 languages, including Mandarin, French, Japanese, Arabic, German, Greek and Spanish.
Selected across five age categories, the winning entries were chosen based on their creative approach and unique stories. Winners are: Ayaan Khan from Geelong English Language Centre, VIC (Age 4-7, English), Harneep Kaur from Creekside K-9 College, VIC (Age 8-12, Punjabi), Summer Frisch from Cairns School of Distance Education, NSW (Age 13-15, Italian), Kelsey Booth from St Margaret AGS, QLD (Age 16-18, Mandarin), and Georgia Leyendekkers who recently graduated from Murdoch University, WA (Age 18+, Indonesian).
SBS Director of Audio and Language Content, Mandi Wicks said, “We are thrilled with the response the competition has garnered with many participants entering the 18+ category, and English language learners entering for the first time this year.”
“Our winners demonstrated their dedication, commitment and love for learning languages through their inspiring entries. Many of the entries showcased how learning another language deepens cultural understanding; strengthens family ties and improves future career prospects.”
Winners were announced earlier today (Wednesday 12 December) at an awards ceremony held at SBS in Sydney hosted by SBS Managing Director, James Taylor and SBS Director of Audio and Language Content, Mandi Wicks, with special guest Hon. Dan Tehan MP, Minister for Education.
In its third year, the SBS National Languages Competition 2018 expanded to engage Australians of all ages learning a language, including English and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages. Participants were required to answer: “What amazing possibilities does learning a language open for you?”, by submitting a photo or illustration accompanied by a caption in the language of their choice and an English translation. Throughout the entry period, photo submissions were built into a mosaic of the map of Australia in real time and entries were shared across social media platforms.
The SBS National Languages Competition 2018 was sponsored by the Australian National University and supported by Community Languages Australia.