3279: Young Champions Rise Through Debate
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This episode of Radio Miraya features a heartfelt conversation with three young champions from St. Mary's Academy Secondary School in Khododjik, South Sudan, who have triumphed in the 2026 South Sudan Debaters and Public Speakers Championship for Central Equatoria State. The team—Aker Denyak, Adiou Majok, and Awol Chol—share their inspiring journey, from initial fears of public speaking to becoming state champions, highlighting the critical role of teacher mentorship, family support, and personal resilience. They reflect on the emotional highs of victory, the lessons learned in sportsmanship and confidence, and their preparation for the upcoming national competition in Rumbik. The guests also deliver powerful messages to parents, educators, and aspiring debaters, emphasizing belief in oneself, the importance of environment in growth, and the need to actively create opportunities rather than wait for them. Their stories underscore the transformative power of debate in building leadership, confidence, and national pride among youth. The episode is a celebration of youth potential, community investment, and the ripple effect of encouragement. The hosts and guests weave personal narratives with broader social messages, making the conversation both intimate and impactful. The young debaters’ humility, vision, and gratitude shine through, offering actionable insights for young people and caregivers alike. Their journey from local underdogs to state champions exemplifies how determination, support, and self-belief can overcome systemic challenges and open doors to future success.
Believe in your abilities—even if you’ve failed before; persistence and self-trust are key to success.
Supportive environments—families, schools, and communities—play a crucial role in nurturing young talent.
Opportunities are not handed out; they are created through action, courage, and initiative.
Public speaking and debate build confidence, critical thinking, and leadership skills essential for future careers.
Emotional support from teachers and parents is more valuable than material resources in overcoming setbacks.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introducing the State Champions
“It's actually a very big privilege for us to win such a tournament because TBA is so far branded the biggest tournament that can be hosted and to be a champion of such a tournament is like very it delights my heart.”
The Emotional Journey of Victory
“It's the best feeling ever. It's actually so exciting. I feel like it's a responsibility that has been placed on your shoulders, and it means you have to work hard to make sure you inspire others.”
Origins of Passion: What Inspired Them
“I saw that, I was like, okay, so if people are able to support me, at least I should also have something that compensates for that support.”
The Power of Support: Teachers and Families
The team highlights the unwavering emotional and logistical support from their teachers and parents. They recount how teachers stood by them even after losses, and how parents provided resources without question, fueling their drive.
Skills Gained and Lessons Learned
The debaters discuss the soft skills they’ve developed—socialization, emotional resilience, and the ability to handle pressure. They emphasize that losing doesn’t mean failure, and that grace in defeat is just as important as winning.
“Opportunities are not gotten, they are created. So my friends, families and everyone out there, don't be that guy that sits and thinks that opportunities will come. It was not easy to come to Radio Miraya. It was something we created.”
“It's actually a very big privilege for us to win such a tournament because TBA is so far branded the biggest tournament that can be hosted and to be a champion of such a tournament is like very it delights my heart.”
“It's the best feeling ever. It's actually so exciting. I feel like it's a responsibility that has been placed on your shoulders, and it means you have to work hard to make sure you inspire others.”
Host
Guests
St Mary's Academy Secondary School
other
Awol Chol
person
Adiou Majok
person
Aker Denyak
person
Radio Miraya
media
Irene Lassou
person
South Sudan Debaters and Public Speakers Championship
other
Central Equatoria State
place
Rumbik
place
Teachers Without Borders Association
organization
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