VANDERBIJLPARK.– Remember the name, Katiana Michaela Wiese, because for years to come, it will surely be on many people’s lips.

After a grueling two-day event yesterday and today, December 13 and 14, in Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City, where Wiese (14) had to go head-to-head against other young speakers from all around the world, she was named the 2025 world public speaking Green Project Champion.

The young Champion from Vanderbijlpark had participated in the South African Green Project Public Speaking Competition which was held on August 16, this year in Vanderbijlpark, and  she had then been invited to compete at the prestigious Global Green Project Public Speaking Competition in Vietnam, representing South Africa.

The competition consisted of a prepared project proposal, followed by extemporaneous speaking in the semi-finals and the final leg of unprepared speaking against two other finalists from Korea and Vietnam.

“As I stand here, global champion, I realise the power of passion and purpose. Proving that even the smallest actions can spark a wave of change. Don’t be afraid to dream big, speak up, and take action – your voice matters, and together, we can create a greener, brighter future!”, Katiana said.

The event was more than just a competition, as it served as a global platform for young leaders to share innovative ideas on environmental sustainability, conservation, and creating a greener future for all. It was also a chance to bring a unique South African perspective to a critical global conversation.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster at the conclusion of the event, today, Katiana’s father, Charl Wiese said that as her parents, they are extremely proud of Katiana’s achievement.

“We’re accustomed to her, and her brother, competing on a national and continental platform, however, for her to have competed at the global level was overwhelming and we couldn’t be happier with her accomplishment, especially considering the level of competitiveness she faced, not to mention it was 3 rounds of fast paced, quick thinking, head-to-head combat.”

He extended gratitude to all her (Katiana’s) well-wishers who assisted financially (for her) to be able to fund her trip and the registration fees.

“Without their generosity this wouldn’t have been possible.”