The cultural season at Hoërskool Nylstroom kicks off every year in January. One of the highlights is participation in the nationwide ATKV public speaking competition. It is always a great honour for any learner to be part of this team.

To represent the school, learners first go through the internal house competition, then the ATKV competition, and ultimately a place in the inter-schools public speaking team may follow.

With her excellent speech and lively delivery, Tijana Bosman  ̶  an Abraham Kriel child and Grade 9 learner at Hoërskool Nylstroom  ̶  had the audience on the edge of their seats. Her three strong, persuasive arguments and brilliant contemporary references repeatedly captured everyone’s attention. It quickly became clear that she would be an asset to the team.

The inter-schools team consists of 16 learners  ̶  a great honour and privilege to represent the school in this way. Alida van Heerden, culture-evening coordinator at Hoërskool Nylstroom and Tijana’s teacher, says: “Tijana performed her task with pride and responsibility. Early on she showed that she possesses perseverance and displays strong leadership qualities. Her self-written and thoroughly prepared speech was of a particularly high standard. There is no doubt that she will continue to develop her talent throughout her high-school career.”

This year’s inter-schools public speaking competition was hosted by Hoërskool Frikkie Meyer. It was a day full of conversation, persuasion and time with friends. As tradition dictates, all the culture learners were honoured during a gala event the previous week. At the function a guest speaker motivated the participants and reminded them of their special talent and the responsibility that comes with it. The evening ended on a delicious note with soup, vetkoek and cupcakes.

With her sharp powers of observation, love of the language and genuine care for people, it is clear that Tijana will enjoy many future successes as a public speaker. She lives out her talent and passion for the art of words to the full.

Well done, Tijana  ̶  your Abraham Kriel family is proud of you!