Hillcrest High learner wins public speaking competition
Principal of Hillcrest High says this was the first year the school competed in the SALA competition, making this win even more exceptional.
FROM a contingent of five learners who were selected to compete in the SA Literary Association (SALA) annual public speaking competition from Hillcrest High School (HHS) recently, three won places in the semi-final round, with Grade Nine learner Osaze Mhlongo reaching the national finals and winning the competition overall.
“This was the first year that Hillcrest High School competed in the SALA Public Speaking Competition making this win even more exceptional,” said principal Denise Knight.
“The event is a challenging and competitive one that features the best and brightest speakers from around the country and to have three learners go through to the semi-final round was also an outstanding achievement.”
Also read: Inter-school showcase at Westville Senior Primary a success
Team Captain Lubanzi Maluleka and vice captain Simphiwe Mostert and team members Simtholile Ngcobo, Keegan Compton-James and Osaze competed in the regional Durban Coastal leg against some fierce competition from the city’s best schools. Despite exceptionally close scoring, Lubanzi, Keegan and Osaze all reached the provincial semi-final round, taking on a significantly expanded field of entrants.
Public speaking coach Elton Smith said that Osaze, HHS’s youngest entrant, showed exceptional maturity in both content and delivery, progressing through the semi-finals to be selected to compete in the national round finals against much older and more experienced speakers from schools across the country. He delivered a compelling “campaign speech” and impressed his coaches and the judges with his composed performance.
“To be a national champion at this age is remarkable, and Osaze has shown what hard work and dedication can bring,” said Knight. “In the context of a talent pool consisting of the best and brightest speakers from across the country, many of whom have been speaking for years, it is an astounding accomplishment.”
For more from the Highway Mail, follow us on Facebook , X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Click to subscribe to our newsletter here
