Unleashing Intellectual Titans: Jamaica College Debate Team 2024
In the hallowed halls of Jamaica College, where excellence is not merely a goal but a way of life, a group of young minds gathers, fueled by passion, intellect, and an unyielding thirst for knowledge. The Jamaica College Debate Team of 2024 stands as a beacon of brilliance, setting ablaze the realms of discourse with their unmatched eloquence, sharp wit, and unwavering determination.
Their journey is not just about winning arguments; it’s about nurturing a culture of inclusivity and empowerment. With a commitment to fostering the next generation of debaters, they reach out to schools and communities across the island, sharing their expertise, inspiring confidence, and igniting a spark of curiosity in the hearts of young minds.
In the crucible of competition, they faced their first challenge against St. George’s College in the BK Debates, arguing in the affirmative “That this house supports the implementation of a 4-day work week across all industries.” Their victory at the Summit Hotel was not just a triumph in debate, but a testament to their meticulous preparation and unwavering teamwork. However, their journey encountered a setback in the second round against Maggotty High School, where they had to argue against “the prioritization of a sin tax over the implementation of exercise campaigns.” Despite the loss, they emerged stronger
and more determined, learning invaluable lessons that will fuel their future endeavors.
Special thanks are owed to the indomitable leadership of their president, Lejoux Choung, whose guidance and vision have been instrumental in shaping the team’s success. Alongside him stand the formidable team members: Owen Codner, Nicolai Henry, and Yatneil Walters, whose dedication, resilience, and unwavering spirit embody the true essence of the Jamaica College Debate Team.
As they reflect on their victories and setbacks, the Jamaica College Debate Team of 2024 remains steadfast in their pursuit of excellence. They understand that setbacks are merely stepping stones on the path to greatness and that true success is not measured solely by wins but by the lessons learned and the impact made along the way.
In the hearts and minds of all who witness their brilliance, the Jamaica College Debate Team of 2024 serves as a testament to the power of intellect, the strength of unity, and the boundless potential of the human spirit. They remind us that no challenge is too great, no obstacle too daunting and that with passion, perseverance, and a steadfast belief in oneself, anything is possible. And as they continue to inspire and uplift, they pave the way for a brighter, more enlightened future for generations to come.
WORD SOUND EMPOWER (W.S.E.)
Unearthing The Voice In You
Word– a single distinct meaningful element of speech or writing.
Sound – a thing that can be heard.
Empowah – [empower] makes (someone) stronger and more confident, especially in controlling their life and claiming their rights.
“The Word, Sound, Empowah Movement” (W.S.E) is the new name of our club at Jamaica College, formerly known as the debating and public speaking society. W.S.E is more than a meeting of brilliant minds to play with words and win matches. Indeed, we do more than use words to spin stories and persuade an audience. Ultimately, W.S.E is the manipulation of distinct and meaningful elements of speech, heard by all who may listen to make both the speaker and the hearer stronger and confident.
We achieve this through a variety of debates and oratorical competitions. Through these events, students gain excellent oral and written communication skills, critical thinking skills, tools for effective research, and strategies to overcome the fear of public speaking.
Some Achievements
Since September (2018) we have gone on to the quarter-finals of the African Caribbean Institute of Jamaica’s (ACIJ’s) debate competition (October 2018) and won the prestigious Rita Marley Public Speaking Competition (February 2019). We continue with matches in the National Burger King Debate Competition as well as the National Tourism Debates for Secondary Schools. After a season of first observation, then preparation, the gentlemen of WSE are poised to return the name of Jamaica College to arenas from which it has too long been absent. We continue to work as we prove that here at Jamaica College, we are good at EVERYTHING. As is recited at each meeting: “The podium is [y]ours”.
WORD SOUND EMPOWER (W.S.E.)
Unearthing The Voice In You
Word– a single distinct meaningful element of speech or writing.
Sound – a thing that can be heard.
Empowah – [empower] makes (someone) stronger and more confident, especially in controlling their life and claiming their rights.
“The Word, Sound, Empowah Movement” (W.S.E) is the new name of our club at Jamaica College, formerly known as the debating and public speaking society. W.S.E is more than a meeting of brilliant minds to play with words and win matches. Indeed, we do more than use words to spin stories and persuade an audience. Ultimately, W.S.E is the manipulation of distinct and meaningful elements of speech, heard by all who may listen to make both the speaker and the hearer stronger and confident.
We achieve this through a variety of debates and oratorical competitions. Through these events, students gain excellent oral and written communication skills, critical thinking skills, tools for effective research, and strategies to overcome the fear of public speaking.
Some Achievements
Since September (2018) we have gone on to the quarter-finals of the African Caribbean Institute of Jamaica’s (ACIJ’s) debate competition (October 2018) and won the prestigious Rita Marley Public Speaking Competition (February 2019). We continue with matches in the National Burger King Debate Competition as well as the National Tourism Debates for Secondary Schools. After a season of first observation, then preparation, the gentlemen of WSE are poised to return the name of Jamaica College to arenas from which it has too long been absent. We continue to work as we prove that here at Jamaica College, we are good at EVERYTHING. As is recited at each meeting: “The podium is [y]ours”.
Some members of the Jamaica College Debating and Public Speaking Society 2015.
Some members included: Gavin Smith, Wayne Moody, Kevaughn McAdam, Jevaughn Banton, and Alex Narcisse accompanied by their faculty advisor Ms. K Bryce