Hoërskool Jeugland learner at the top of public speaking
“I am excited hearing other people’s opinions because I enjoy reading and listening to the news."
Lesedi Mokgatlhane from Hoerskool Jeugland made waves in the public speaking world when she placed in the top three of the Interskole Redenaars Public Speaking League.
Mokgatlhane competed against 36 schools in the persuasive speech and motivational speeches categories, and participants demonstrated their ability to speak effectively in front of an audience and judges.
With a topic the audience and judges could relate to, Mokgatlhane’s performance was described as fascinating.
Mokgatlhane spoke about why she chose her topic, Talk is cheap, and actions speak louder than words.
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“We live in an age when people make endless promises and say countless things but never act on their words.
“Most of our parents, peers and leaders talk the talk but cannot walk the walk, and that adversely affects the youth and society,” she said.
According to Mokgatlhane, she earned honorary colours in public speaking from her school and was named speaker of the year at Laerskool Van Riebeekpark.
“Even though I am a natural speaker and put a lot of effort into my research and preparation, I still get nervous on the big day,” said Mokgatlhane.
“Clammy palms, racing heart, and worry that I’ll forget my speech are the order of the day, but winning is the best feeling in the world. I have a lot to say and a lot of self-assurance.”
“I am excited hearing other people’s opinions because I enjoy reading and listening to the news.”
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Mokgatlhane said she was passionate about interacting with various types of individuals and talking about a range of topics.
“To avoid a conversation with me, my poor mother needs to pretend to be asleep. The most rewarding experience is the adrenaline from having all eyes on me for that brief period.
“I enjoy singing in the choir, playing netball, and reading in my leisure time. I also enjoy being on TickTok and teaching Sunday school.”
The former public protector, Thuli Madonsela, Oprah Winfrey, and Mark Zuckerberg are role models for Mokgatlhane, who stated, “But the cream of the crop is my grandmother, Mirriam, who, even at 66, is still studying and always eager to learn, even from a mere 14-year-old.
“Mamo is a former professional nurse. She is tall and quiet, unlike me, but when she speaks, it is to influence, heal, direct, and build,” she said.
She now moves on to the finals at Laerskool Concordia next month.
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