In a display of oratory prowess, 13-year-old Inathi Tofa, a pupil at Merrifield College, emerged as the overall winner in the Alexander Road Public Speaking and Debating tournament held in Gqeberha.
Unpacking complex issues facing the African continent, the young public-speaking prodigy captivated the audience with her powerful words — a skill she had cultivated since the age of five.
Inathi’s speech reflected on our past as Africans and where we are now.
Inathi said winning the competition was a dream come true.
“I have always had an interest in public speaking, from when I was five and reading my children’s books out loud, but my true love for the format started when I was 11, towards the end of my grade 5 year,” she said.
Now in grade 8, she said she was motivated by her specialist English class.
“My speech discussed the critical state of the African continent, why we — the once most culturally diverse empire recorded in history — have become stereotyped, misunderstood and ignored in today’s society and how the rest of the world essentially ignores or refuses to acknowledge our accomplishments and progressions.
“It talks about what we should be doing, not only as Africa but as a world in a modern age, where certain acts such as reparations and the return of African items should have taken place decades ago.”
She said she chose her topic because it was important for other people to know African history.
“As much as certain parts of history, such as slavery and colonialism, have been taught in schools, it’s important to address the causes and effects of these topics on our soil.”
She said taking the stand in front of people was fun and exciting.
Even though she sometimes has stage fright, that does not stop her doing what she loves.
“It was quite an amazing experience, it was my first time going to a tournament outside East London.”
Inathi said winning the competition came as a shock.
“I’m honestly still in shock to this day. Every time I look at my certificate or someone congratulates me, I get taken by surprise.
“I’m grateful to have won because this was my first official first-place victory and I’m more than grateful that I was given the opportunity.”
Her aunt, Sinekhaya Nazo, took part in debating, but she was the first in her family to take the public speaking route.
Her recipe for success in public speaking was choosing the topic you are passionate about and running with it.
“I believe that anyone who has a pencil, pen and a voice can use these tools to make something impactful and interesting.
“All children wanting to try public speaking should attempt it.
“It really is an amazing skill and talent to have. It shows a more creative yet analytic view that can only be achieved by public speaking,” she said.
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