Achievements
Debating their way to victory
The two elocutionists from Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park outshone themselves through the power of words
Speaking before an audience by exuding clarity of thoughts, confidence and leadership skills is not everyone’s cup of tea, either you are born with it or you acquire it by focus and determination. Having aced the second category, these two orators – Ali Hasnain and Aarav Madan from Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park made their teachers and parents proud by displaying exceptional oratory finesse at the Interschool Zonal Level Cultural Competitions clinching the first position.
Just like there are no free lunches in this world, the achievement didn’t come easy as both prepared rigorously by pushing all limits.
“The preparation was quite difficult. I had to manage my time very wisely as my debate and exams were around the same time, in fact my debate was coincidentally scheduled on the same date as my UT Exam. I wrote my content within 2-3 days and then practiced my presentation and delivery style for approximately the same amount of time for clear and convincing delivery,” expressed the Class IX student Ali.
Though, for Aarav, his strategy highlighted consistency and support. “I practiced almost every day, working on my voice, clarity, and confidence. It wasn’t easy, but with our English teacher’s guidance, my mom’s constant support, and my own practice, I slowly built the confidence to perform well on stage.”
Iterating about the challenges each one faced during the competition, Ali shared, “The most challenging part of any debate for me is writing an appealing introduction so that the judges are engaged. Convincing and persuasive delivery is also very important.”
Aarav explained, “The most challenging part was definitely the long wait before our turn and the pressure that built up in those moments. On stage, it wasn’t just me — we performed together as a team. My fellow debater, Ali, deserves a lot of credit because we balanced each other’s strengths and supported one another throughout the debate.”
The two rhetoricians also credit their school for extending unwavering support.
“Apeejay School has supported us throughout this journey in the best way possible. Our Vice Principal always motivated us and gave us the confidence to push our limits. The teachers also guided us on delivery and presentation. Their feedback helped us improve our overall presentation and be more compelling in speaking,” both Aarav and Ali shared together.
