Jemma Tresling, a Grade 10 learner at St Mary’s School Waverley, has emerged as a beacon of excellence in the South African debating community. Known for her exceptional skills and unwavering dedication, Jemma has recently been selected to represent South Africa in the 2024 Development Teams, marking a significant milestone in her young debating career.
Jemma started debating in 2021 to overcome personal challenges and was inspired by her peers’ confidence and improved communication skills. She secured a spot on the junior debating team in high school and delivered a speech emphasising the importance of her voice and contributions.
Her journey was filled with obstacles. “As a debater, I struggled with two main challenges: lack of knowledge when I first started debating and a significant self-confidence issue,” she acknowledges. Overcoming these obstacles required support from her peers and mentors, as well as a dedication to continuous improvement.
Balancing academics with debating commitments was challenging, but with support from teachers and coaches, she learned to prioritise effectively, similar to student-athletes. This support network was instrumental in managing both academic and debating responsibilities.
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The rewards of her dedication are evident. “The most rewarding part of my experience has certainly been the shift in confidence that I have experienced,” Jemma shares. “It is such a unique feeling of empowerment, especially as a young woman given this platform of expression.”
Jemma’s success is also deeply rooted in the unwavering support of her family and school community. “My parents are immensely supportive irrespective of the number of achievements or rewards I receive.” The school’s commitment to acknowledging her achievements and fostering a supportive atmosphere has helped her thrive.
Looking ahead, Jemma aspires to continue representing South Africa in international competitions and aims to rank highly in these events. She also dreams of becoming a lawyer, combining her advocacy skills with a commitment to excellence.
Despite setbacks, like her team’s loss in the 2023 Tanzania National World Schools Debating Championship, Jemma remains resilient, viewing these experiences as opportunities for growth and motivation.
Jemma’s debating journey illustrates the power of dedication and perseverance, with a promising future in the global debating community.
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