Student Surprised By Debate Contest Win, Sets Eyes on National Stage
By Elizabeth Kucherera
Mutare, Zimbabwe – Christabel Mukanduri never expected to win. The Form 4 student from St Joseph High School practised debating for just five days. Yet last week, she stood before ten schools at Leadermold College and was named best female speaker.
“I was shocked!” Christabel said with a bright smile. “I practised less than a week, and now I have this award.”
The buzzing debate tournament brought together talented students from across Mutare. Crowds cheered as speakers battled with words, showing bravery and quick thinking. Among them, Princess Magombeyi, a Form 3 student from Christabel’s school, won public speaker of the day. “Training was short,” Princess admitted, “but I gave it my all.”
Even last year’s champion from Heartlane College agreed Christabel deserved the honor. “Today was a learning experience,” she said. “The best truly won.”
But beyond the trophies, a bigger mission emerged. Leadermold College director, Mr. Magombedze thanked Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Youth for their support in grooming leaders through public speaking and debate but urged sponsors to help students in remote areas. “Children in districts like Buhera and Chimanimani deserve chances too,” he pleaded, “We should leave no one or no place behind.”
David Mamvura, Chief President of Royal Studio Africa, which ran the event, shared exciting news: “This program will soon go national,” he announced. “And we’re taking it beyond Zimbabwe – the whole continent must prepare!”
He called on partners across Africa to invest in youth: “The future is in young people’s hands.”
For Christabel, the win is just the start. “This showed me anything is possible,” she said. With debates expanding nationwide, she ’is ready to speak up again and inspire others to find their voice.
