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Thobeka tops debate contest

THOBEKA Nkabinde will represent Western Cape in the Anglo American and Sowetan Young Communicators Awards in Johannesburg later this year.

Thobeka topped in this popular debating competition that was held in the Western Cape legislature chambers at the weekend.

This Anglo American and Sowetan project is organised in partnership with the Department of Basic Education and Munsa, who are the YCA's administrators and academic development practitioners.

The competition seeks to uncover talent, confidence and passion among South Africa's young people who are in Grades 11 and 12 in the public high schools, for whom English is a second language.

Fourteen schools across the province were represented in Cape Town.

Overall winner and Grade 12 pupil Thobeka, 17, of Huguenot High School in Wellington, called on young people in her prepared speech to grab opportunities created by national competitions and to strive for greater things. She scooped a R1000 prize.

Second-placed Siphesithu Mbuli, 17, a Grade 11 pupil at Cape Academy in Constantia, received R800, while Marilee Manuel, 17, who is also a Grade 11 pupil, but is from Knysna High School, received R500.

Shamiela Letsoalo, Anglo American's marketing and sponsorship manager, said it was important for youngsters to set goals and to strive for success.

Addressing the pupils Letsoalo said: "Through your participation in these awards, and learning the key fundamentals of communication, you are receiving critical training skills."

The finals will be on August 19.

  • In another YCA provincial heat in Mpumalanga, Gomolemo Moleko came first, scooping R1000 and qualifying for a national finals spot.