I developed  a passion for public speaking through a teacher who initially practically forced me to go on stage and do a speech in Grade 9. Ever since I took that first step on to that stage, I never left.

The core message of my speech was rape culture. This was prompted by the reality of gender based violence in South Africa and the world at large.

This being my first contest I was able to reach District semi-finals and that is an achievement. I have learnt three lessons from this journey which are humility, unpredictability and confidence in my ability as a speaker.

My personal goal this year was to be the world champion of public speaking. I guess the journey continues.

Never stop dreaming but also remember that a dream will remain a dream unless or rather until goals are set to turn that dream into a reality.