Angel Masha, a Grade 11 HTS Witbank learner, is preparing to represent Mpumalanga in the National Road Safety Debate Competition on September 27.

This comes after the 17-year-old was selected as part of the urban category team advancing to the nationals during the provincial leg of the competition, held in eMalahleni on August 15.

“Being part of the national team and having the opportunity to represent Mpumalanga on a national stage is a feeling I cannot fully put into words,” Masha said.

“I am incredibly grateful, proud and humbled to carry my province’s name with me.”

Perseverance pays off

The learner shared that she did not simply wake up announced among the best, but that her journey has been one of perseverance, patience and growth.

She said she started debating when she was in Grade Nine. At the time, she was not selected to be part of the team, but still attended the competition and watched the participants with great admiration.

When she entered in Grade 10, she faced early elimination, but instead of giving up, she said she leaned on her faith, drawing strength from Philippians 4:13.

“Maybe those failed attempts were not failures at all. Maybe it simply wasn’t my time to shine yet. The hard work was only preparing me for my moment.”

Returning this year as her team’s third speaker, Masha said she dedicated countless hours to research and speechwriting, often spending more than 10 hours refining her arguments.

Fortunately, her perseverance paid off, earning her a spot at nationals.

Ready for national stage

“I have seen myself grow from the first stage until now, and I am incredibly proud of how far I have come,” she said. “Right now, there is a sense of anticipation because I know that soon I will be behind the curtain, ready to give everything I have.”

Masha expressed gratitude for her family, teachers, coach and God, who all continue to be her biggest support system throughout her journey.

“You are my true motivators. You are the people who helped carry me this far. Without you, I may never have fought until the end,” she said.

“As I step onto the national stage, I carry more than just my own dreams. I carry the support, encouragement and belief of everyone who has stood beside me throughout this journey.”

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