Hoërskool Birchleigh learner excels on national stage of debating

Tshepiso Polo, a Grade 11 learner at Hoërskool Birchleigh, is proving to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of debate.

Despite only starting his debating journey in Grade Nine, later than most, he has worked tirelessly to establish himself, earning a place in the South African National Team Trials and making history for his school.

Polo’s path to debating was unexpected. Having grown up playing sports, he had never considered joining the debate team until his mathematics teacher and debate coach, Siphiwe Milazi, encouraged him to try out.

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“My coach saw something in me that I hadn’t recognised in myself,” Polo said.

“I went to the trials, made the team, and quickly fell in love with it.

“The topics we discussed, about the state of the country, society, and our beliefs, sparked something in me.

“Those authentic conversations were what drew me in.”

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In his first year, Polo’s talent was evident.

He qualified for the Gauteng trials, where he made it into the province’s top 20 and earned a spot on the provincial team.

It was there that he met coach Siyabonga Ndelebe, who played a pivotal role in honing his debating skills.

“Because I started later than most, I had a lot of catching up to do,” Polo said.

“Coach Siyabonga took the time to train me one-on-one, helping me develop my skills. I’ll never forget those intense sessions on unusual topics, which built me into a stronger speaker.”

One of his most memorable moments came during a competition where his speech left the audience in awe.

“I don’t even remember what I said, but the crowd was hyped,” Polo said.

“My coach shook my hand and told me that was a 73-point speech, a remarkable score for a junior.”

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Polo’s mother, Tsholo Polo, expressed her immense pride in her son’s achievements.

“I never imagined him excelling in something like debating. He was always introverted and preferred doing things on his own. I worried that he wouldn’t develop socially,” she admitted.

“But now, he’s a completely different person. Debate has helped him grow, and I couldn’t be prouder.”

Polo’s success at nationals earned him a place in the prestigious South African National Team Trials.

The trials consisted of eight intense rounds, and his performance secured him a spot on Team SA Proteas WSDC Class of 2025.

“I was in disbelief when they called my name,” he said.

“I didn’t expect it to happen that way. It took a moment for it to sink in, but when everyone started cheering, I knew it was real.”

Coach Siphiwe Milazi reflected on Polo’s growth, calling him a rare talent.

“When Tshepiso started, he knew nothing about debating, but I could tell he had a special mind.

“He progressed rapidly, won the junior league, and returned from nationals as a completely different debater.

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“Now, I trust him to coach my junior debaters because I feel like there’s nothing more I can teach him—he’s that advanced.”

After making the South African team, Polo felt a responsibility to help others develop their skills.

He has since taken on a mentorship role, coaching both junior and senior debaters at his school.

“You don’t need to be in a big or private school to succeed,” Polo said. “If you have talent and work hard, you can achieve anything.”

Hoërskool Birchleigh principal, Carmen Govender, commended Polo’s dedication and success.

“I am beaming with pride for Tshepiso Polo. Being selected for the South African debating team is a testament to his hard work, passion, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

“We encourage our learners to explore their talents, make their voices heard, and continue pushing boundaries.”

With his spot on the national team secured, Polo is now preparing to represent South Africa on the world stage, proving that dedication and passion can take you anywhere.