Priscilla Slinger and Jessica Schmidt of Pembroke Secondary College hope their confidence and ability can help them outshine their city counterparts in the Vida's Voices competition hosted by the Victorian Women's Trust.

"I really want to beat the other schools, as we were one of the only state schools there and the only co-ed school," Priscilla said.

"We were asked to represent our school, so it would be good to do well," Jessica said.

Vida's Voices, named in honour of Vida Goldstein, who was a tireless campaigner for women's rights, requires the 100 girls to deliver one prepared and one impromptu speech on the changes to women's status in Australia.

Priscilla said she had enjoyed researching the prepared topic. "We've learnt so much and I've found it really interesting. As far as the actual speech goes, I'm pretty confident although I do tend to get nervous at the start."

For Jessica, speaking in front of a large crowd will be the challenge. "I tend to get butterflies in my stomach and sweaty palms - I'm much better in front of a smaller crowd."

At an intensive training day last week, the girls got a chance to meet their competition.

"It was more like a bonding day but we also got to learn about persuasive techniques, posture and other ways we can perfect our speeches," Priscilla said.

"We thought it was a practice so we already had our speeches prepared, but we are the only ones, so now we just have to perfect them - hopefully that has given us an edge."

Victorian Women's Trust executive director Mary Crooks said the competition took participants out of their comfort zone.

"It's a great way to help young women find their voice - and use their voice - so they can make a positive contribution in their communities."