In the hushed hall, the only sound was a single voice carefully enunciating each letter. All eyes were on the spelling contestants.
CityKidz Spelling Bee took place on 25 September, where the champions were crowned not just for their memory, but for their poise, etymology skills and nerves of steel. The journey to the top is a gruelling one but for top spellers each year, it culminates in a moment of unforgettable triumph. This year resulted in the Foundation Phase having a 1st place champion and four joint 2nd place holders.
Congratulations to Amanda Moyo for winning 1st place Spelling Bee Champion in the Foundation Phase. 2nd place went to: Mphoentle Matlhoko, Limile Ndela, Bongeka Stofile and Gabriella Khumalo. Grade 1 was represented splendidly by Sbongakonke Ndlela who had mastered some very challenging words. In the Intersen Phase, first place went to Onyinyechi Mhlambe, Gr 7B. Her moment of victory—marked by the final, correct spelling —was an explosion of relief and joy. Second place went to Hope Makgopa, Gr 6B and in Third place: Chisom Mhlambe, Gr 4C.
There was elation and ululation in the audience as Mrs Pretty Abosi embraced her daughters, Onyinyechi and Chisom, two winners in one family. Halala! We wish the learners all the best of the best and hope they continue to be superstars of the English language. From first to third, these champions remind us that language is a complex and beautiful puzzle. Their victories are not just about spelling; they are about discipline, grace under pressure and the incredible power of a dedicated mind.
