Four Indispensable Strengths to Become an Outstanding Debater
Song Chansakana, a former runner-up in the National Youth Debate 2022, turned her weakness in public speaking into strengths. Photo: ThmeyThmey
- By Nhek Sreyleak
- January 22, 2024 12:13 PM
PHNOM PENH – Song Chansakana, a former runner-up in the National Youth Debate 2022, turned her weakness in public speaking into strengths.
National Youth Debate is an annual debate competition organized by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport to test contestants’ dialectic in Khmer while defending an argument in public.
After moving out of her comfort zone to take part in this competition, Sakana’s public speaking skills have significantly improved and pushed her to do more research.
“At first, I had no interest in debating as I was still hesitant about my public speaking skills,” she said.
“When I was in grade 11, I took the plunge and participated in the national youth debate in 2022 with four other teammates after being encouraged by my school.
“At that time, I thought it would be great if I passed. If not, I would consider it as an experience and lesson,” she said.
Sakana identified four indispensable strengths that led her to become an outstanding debater. Those include herself, her family, school and society.
Sakana said the most significant factor is to know our own personality and be aware of our strengths and weaknesses. Regardless of people’s support, the debater will fail if they don’t support themselves, she said.
“Effective time management also matters to our success. Most importantly, we ought to take care of our health before the competition,” she added.
Her family has also played a crucial role in her preparation, stressing that she has received endless support from her parents, siblings, aunts and uncles.
In addition, Sakana is convinced that the school also helped pave the way for her to reach the final round and come second in the 2022 debate competition.
“Thanks to teachers and principals. I felt so motivated. It was a great opportunity as I have never been involved in such debate competitions before,” she said.
The last factor is society. She stressed that peace enabled her to take part in the competition with other debaters.
Sakana has just graduated from high school with a grade A in 2023.
Originally written in Khmer for ThmeyThmey, this story was translated by Rin Ousa for Cambodianess.
