Authors: Grace Li and Vrinda Iyengar
We’re pleased to have interviewed SpeakLit for this installment of our Student Spotlight Series, where we discussed their mission expanding legal awareness, advocacy, and youth empowerment!
Q1: Please introduce yourself and describe your organization.
Hi! My name is Manu Gamage, and I’m a Year 12 student with a huge interest in law, legal research, and advocacy. I’m an aspiring lawyer who genuinely enjoys exploring cases, understanding legal systems, and learning how law shapes society.
I’m also the founder of SpeakLit, a youth-led organization created for aspiring lawyers, political science enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the legal world. SpeakLit focuses on legal awareness, advocacy, youth empowerment, and public speaking. Our goal is to create a welcoming space where young people can learn, share ideas, and grow their confidence while exploring law and justice together.
Q2: What prompted you to start SpeakLit?
SpeakLit began in August 2025 when I was actively looking for opportunities to gain real exposure to the legal field, especially through case studies, research, and hands-on learning. While there were resources available, I noticed a gap: there weren’t many platforms that combined legal education, creativity, and meaningful participation. Instead of waiting for the right opportunity, I decided to create one. SpeakLit was built to fill that gap, for students like me who are curious, motivated, and passionate about law but need a supportive place to start. It’s a space where young people can learn, collaborate, and grow while making a positive impact.
Q3: What misconceptions about politics do you think are most prevalent among youth?
A common misconception is that politics is boring, too complicated, or doesn’t really affect young people. Many youths feel that their voices won’t be heard, so they choose not to engage at all. In reality, politics and law influence everyday aspects of our lives, from education and rights to opportunities and social change. When young people realize this, politics becomes something empowering rather than intimidating. Youth voices bring fresh perspectives, and they play a crucial role in shaping the future.
Q4: Can you expand on some of your open roles and what they each do on a day-to-day basis?
SpeakLit runs through teamwork and collaboration, with three main roles: Legal Research Interns, Social Media Interns, and Bloggers/Article & Design Team members.
Legal Research Interns work on assigned cases or research topics on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, producing well-researched and detailed analyses. These are then shared with our Social Media team, who turn the research into engaging and informative content.
Bloggers receive prompts related to law, politics, or advocacy and create articles that reflect their ideas and perspectives. All research pieces, blogs, and articles are published on our Blogspot, giving volunteers real exposure and a sense of contribution.
Q5: How does volunteering with SpeakLit help students grow as leaders or communicators?
Volunteering with SpeakLit helps students grow in a very natural way. We prioritize teamwork, open discussion, and mutual support, so everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas and opinions. I offer guidance, feedback, and mentorship throughout the process, while making sure each team member has a platform to express themselves. Through research, writing, speaking events, and collaborative projects, volunteers build confidence, leadership skills, and strong communication abilities in a friendly and encouraging environment.
Q6: Lastly, how can readers support or get involved with your organization right now?
Readers can support SpeakLit by following us on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn, all under the same username handle, where we share updates, legal insights, and opportunities to get involved. Anyone interested in joining or learning more can find all relevant links, including application forms, through the Linktree in our bio. We’re always happy to welcome new people who are curious, passionate, and excited to learn!!
Thank you so much to SpeakLit for having this interview with us! Make sure to check out their socials @speaklitofficial!
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