By Selloane Ntshonyane
- Tanya Jakeni from Idutywa has represented South Africa at major international debating competitions in Germany, the United States and Finland.
- The 19-year-old plans to study international law and now mentors learners through a debate team she started at a local school.
At just 19, Tanya Jakeni from Idutywa in the Eastern Cape has already represented South Africa on some of the world’s biggest debating stages.
Jakeni started debating in 2022 while attending Bertharry English Private School.
She said her late deputy principal, Mrs Z Zwana, first noticed her talent and encouraged her to speak at school events.
“She believed in me when nobody did,” Jakeni said. She said the support helped her overcome fear and build confidence.
In 2023, she represented her school at the Ekurhuleni North District Model United Nations competition.
Her team won and advanced to provincial level.
Wanting to grow further, Jakeni entered private debating leagues where she competed against participants from all nine provinces.
Her strong performances led to her selection to represent South Africa internationally. In September 2024, she travelled to Germany and placed third out of 60 countries.
That result opened more doors. She was invited to the Gauteng Women’s Excellence Awards hosted by Premier Panyaza Lesufi.
There, she met leaders including Dr Naledi Pandor and Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma.
Later in 2024, Jakeni won first place in a competition in the United States, beating contestants from 40 countries.
In December 2025, she again took first place in Finland, competing against participants from 70 countries.
During the Finland event, her iPad with her presentation was stolen minutes before she was due to speak.
She improvised and still won. Jakeni said debating has taught her resilience, patience and respect for different views.
She completed matric last year and plans to study international law overseas.
She has also started a debate team at Eagles View Christian School, mentoring learners under the name Eagles Advocates.
Pictured above: Tanya Jakeni with her award.
Image source: Supplied
