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nggi Nurqonita was selected the first Speaker ambassador on Saturday in a contest held in conjunction with the launch of The Jakarta Post’s Speak! magazine for young people.

The 16-year-old from SMA 98 state high school in East Jakarta presented a proposal for a peer-regulated school safety program, called “Schoolturahmi”.

The event was held at Epicentrum in Kuningan, South Jakarta, with major sponsor Indosat, as well as support from Inti College Indonesia, the British Council and Lenovo.

The runner-up was Lydia Sophiani, 18, from SMA 3 Bandung, who discussed education of street children, and third was Ajay Puri, 16, from the British International School. He focused on teaching computer literacy to underprivileged children.

The top three each received cash prizes and an electronic notebook. As Speaker, Anggi will have her own column in the English-language monthly magazine.

Judges concurred it was difficult to choose a winner among the 15 finalists, selected for meeting the criteria as bright, motivated young people who want to make a difference in society.

“We were impressed by the talent and maturity of the finalists, and their concern for the real social issues affecting society today,” said judge Ami Sukesna from Inti College Indonesia.

The event, which included performances by Calvin Jeremy and school bands and dance groups, marked the official debut of Speak!

The 76-page magazine discusses pop culture, lifestyle and education issues in a fresh and engaging manner.

Currently, Speak! is distributed free to 300 schools in Java and Bali, and is also available in Gramedia bookstores and lifestyle outlets in major cities.