Our Mission
Speech 4 Each (S4E) aims to empower individuals who struggle with public speaking, including those with speech impediments, non-native English speakers, and women in competitive workforces. Through a variety of initiatives, we strive to spark a passion for speaking—an essential form of self-expression. We are dedicated to preparing individuals for future success by fostering the lifelong skill of confident communication and helping them find the power to advocate for themselves and others.
OUR TEAM
As we embark on our journey at Speech 4 Each, our diverse team will use their great and unique abilities to contribute to fulfilling our mission.
Sophie Zhan
Founder and Executive Director
Hi! My name is Sophie Zhan and I'm a junior at The Hockaday School in Dallas, TX. Growing up, public speaking and speech were always important parts of my life. Especially when I got to high school and began competing in NSDA Original Oratory as well as Mock Trial, both which heavily employed speech and were activities I avidly enjoyed these. However, my sophomore year of high school, I got lingual braces which impaired my speaking immensely by giving me a lisp. At the time, I was completely defeated since speech was such a big part of my life and me. When adjusting to braces in the first few months, my confidnece in my speaking dropped immensely low and I found myself restraining myself from speaking. However, with speech being such an important trait of mine, I was determined to keep improving myself. During my time of introspection, I was inspired to help others with speech insecurities, like mine, gain confidence in verbal self expression. For this reason, I started Speech 4 Each to build a community of people with speech impediments to help grow courage in their public speaking.
Lily Roberts
Director of FEMiliar Voices
Hi everyone! My name in Lily Roberts and I am a junior at The Hockaday School in Dallas. One of the first times I stood at a podium and microphone in front the entire 8th grade when I had been nominated for class president. I remember being so nervous beforehand, so I practiced my speech over and over again until I felt comfortable. I didn't win the election, but I did discover how much I enjoy public speaking. But not everyone has those opportunities or has the chance to take part in a speech or debate class. That's what led me to create a program for students called "SOAR" - which stands for Speak Out You Are Ready. It includes large and small group activities that help students find their voice and the power they have by speaking up for themselves. I also founded a nonprofit called "Stronger Together" which encourages people to find their passion and volunteer. Speaking to student in classrooms or at different events is something I really enjoy doing in my role as Miss Fort Worth’s Teen. I am so thankful to be able to be part of Speech 4 Each because it's important that we all have the confidence, and skills, to speak up and speak out!
Mimi Davison
Director of Young Authors
I’m Mimi Davison, a high school junior in Dallas, Texas. Growing up, I had a lisp that greatly impacted my overall confidence, from raising my hand to speak in a classroom to signing up for activities at school. It can be exhausting to feel as though you can’t express yourself properly. As someone who is also deeply passionate about literacy among children, I believe possessing the confidence to speak fluently is also an essential tenet of literacy. I am a social impact intern within the Hockaday Writing Center, and I created my own program for elementary school students to write their own books. Working with young writers each week has brought me to further realize how reading and writing abilities can be improved through practicing speech. I am also very interested in global issues including climate change. Through my own personal experience as a member of the Environmental Board, speaking up and encouraging others to speak up about issues that are important to you is only becoming more important in our changing world. I am so excited to work with the rest of the board on inspiring growth through Speech 4 Each.
Tex Davison
Director of Outreach and International Affairs
Im Tex Davison, a member class of the class of 2027 at St. Marks School of Texas. And speech has always been my passion because it brings people together, no matter their backgrounds or beliefs. I’m fascinated by how language bridges gaps, and my work with the Inclusion and Diversity Council has deepened my appreciation for creating spaces where every voice matters. Joining your international affairs team would let me combine my love for speech with my interest in different cultures and languages, fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration on a global scale. I really look forward to joining this non profit and be a leader of its international affairs.
Audrey Yoo
Director of Social Media
My name is Audrey and I’m currently a junior at Frisco Centennial High School. Some things I enjoy doing in my free time are playing guitar, singing, fencing, and baking. I’m beyond thrilled to be part of the mission in inspiring speeches for young kids!
