PROUD WINNERS OF GAUTENG SPELLING BEE CELEBRATED WITH AWARDS

By Madali Chibambu

• Representatives from several child and youth care centres recently took part in a Spelling Bee at the Itereleng Residential Care Facility for the Disabled in Ga-Rankuwa, in the City of Tshwane.
• The event promotes a love of learning and literacy, as well as acknowledging the hard work of the young competitors.
• Spelling Bee coordinator, Cebolenkosi Ngubane, emphasised the broader value of the competition, noting it provides an opportunity for children from different regions to interact and build relationships beyond the classroom setting.

Excitement and pride filled the air as participants from various child and youth care centres in the north of Gauteng were honoured for their outstanding performance in a Spelling Bee competition held at the Itereleng Residential Care Facility for the Disabled in Ga-Rankuwa, in the City of Tshwane.

Despite the rainy weather conditions, the young contestants arrived early, well-prepared and eager to showcase their spelling prowess. Their dedication paid off as they were rewarded with trophies, certificates, and medals in recognition of their hard work and determination.

Participating child and youth care centres included Walter Sisulu, Mary Moodley, Rearabilwe, Desmond Tutu, Dr F&F, Busisiwe Modisakeng, Mabutho Hlatswayo Igugulethu, and Don Mattera.

Learners proudly represented their centres, dressed in uniform and carrying packed lunches, reflecting both unity and enthusiasm.

Spelling Bee coordinator, Cebolenkosi Ngubane, emphasised the broader value of the competition, noting that it provides an opportunity for children from different regions to interact and build relationships beyond the classroom setting.

“As care workers, we value the time spent with children during such events. It allows them to engage, especially during informal moments like lunch, where they connect and learn from one another,” said Ngubane.

He further highlighted that the competition plays an important role in enhancing literacy, expanding vocabulary, and nurturing a love for reading and language.

It also encourages a deeper understanding of word origins and meanings while strengthening memory and public speaking skills in an engaging and supportive environment.

The competition catered to learners from Grade 1 to Grade 12, with winners emerging across all grade levels.

One of the proud recipients, Thabang* (name withheld to protect his identity), shared his excitement after receiving his first-ever medal and certificate.

“The competition was tough, and I never thought I would make it to the finals. Spending more time reading my books really made a difference,” he said with a smile.

The event celebrated academic excellence and strengthened the importance of creating platforms that inspire learning, confidence, and connection among young people.