HK speakers take place among best in the world
When Hong Kong first took part in the World Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships in Germany three years ago, the team didn't really have any goals. We were there to learn, and hopefully one day be among the best.
It didn't take long. The team returned this year from the contest in Brisbane, Australia, with the city's first world champion.
Heather Pickerell, of German Swiss International School, won the 'persuasive speaking' category with her 12-minute speech on the troubles of Sub-Saharan Africa.
Benjamin Allen of La Salle College also did well, coming runner-up in the 'world in debating' category. He spoke about nuclear power and global warming.
James Lo, of Diocesan Boys' School, was the sole Hong Kong representative in the 'interpretive reading' contest, reading a thoughtful passage from The Kite Runner.
This year's team was Hong Kong's youngest. Madhav Menon and Alan Gigi, both from South Island School, are only 14 and still have big opportunities ahead of them.
Griffith Cheng of Li Po Chun United World College, Raphael Leung of La Salle and Jennifer Chan of Marymount Secondary School also made valuable contributions to the team.
