The Minister of Education’s Debate Challenge 2025 concluded with resounding success on Sunday, 16 March, 2025, at the CedarBridge Academy Cafetorium. Young debaters captivated the audience by showcasing excellence and eloquence.
Since October 2024, 34 talented young debaters have participated in the weekly training sessions. These students competed in the preliminary, quarter, and semi-final rounds, culminating in the finals on Sunday, 16 March 2025.
The grand final students in the 10-11 age group debated the motion “This House would ban social media”, while the 12-14 age group tackled the complex topic “This House believes that major tourist destinations should significantly limit the number of tourists that can visit.”
After fierce and compelling debates, the following students emerged victorious:
10-11 Age Group Champions:
• Russian Thompson, Connor Faries and Xela Hall
12-14 Age Group Champions:
• Nylah Matthews, Rudy Puhekker, and Etana Holdipp-Lynch
Additionally, the top individual performers from the preliminary rounds were recognised:
• Russian Thompson was named Overall Winner in the 10-11 age category.
• Annabelle Nelson claimed the Overall Winner title in the 12-14 age category
In attendance at the finals were, the Minister of Education Senator, the Honorable Crystal Caesar, JP and Commissioner of Education, Kalmar Richards, and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Senator the Hon. Kim Wilkerson, JP, commended the students for their poise, intellectual agility, and public speaking prowess. They emphasised the significance of debate as a critical tool for youth empowerment and expressed their pride in seeing public school students excel on such a grand stage.
Debate leader and coach Gladstone Thompson stated, “I am so proud of our students and how they demonstrated their ability to engage in meaningful, well-researched discussions. The level of research, critical thinking, and articulate argumentation displayed by the participants left the audience and adjudicators in awe. The future of Bermuda is undoubtedly in capable hands.”
Minister of Education, Crystal Caesar stated, “Today, we have witnessed something extraordinary. We have been in the presence of young minds who have challenged, inspired, and electrified us with their eloquence, conviction, and confidence in articulating their points.
Minister Caesar added, “As we bring this phenomenal event to a close, I want to acknowledge that this is not just an ordinary debate tournament. It is a historic and unforgettable moment that will be etched in the memories of all who have witnessed these talented students.
“We owe gratitude to those who laid the foundation for this event. The former Minister of Education, the Hon. Diallo Rabain, was the catalyst, inspiring the creation of this tournament and encouraging Mr Gladstone Thompson to bring this vision to life. Because of their leadership and foresight, we have had the opportunity to experience the joy, pride, and inspiration these young people have brought to our community. The success of this year’s Minister’s Debate Challenge would not have been possible without the dedication and leadership of Gladstone Thompson, the Dynamic Debater’s team, and Kim Jackson and the Mirror’s team.”
“If we remain committed to the triad of success—the parent, the educator, and the student—and if we work tirelessly to strengthen that partnership, ensuring it is free of distractions and negative influences, then Bermuda will be well-equipped to face the challenges of the future with strength and confidence.
“As we close this chapter of the Minister’s Debate Challenge 2025, I extend my deepest appreciation to everyone who has played a role in making this tournament a success—the organisers, educators, parents, and most of all, our phenomenal debaters.”
For information about future debate opportunities, contact Mr. Gladstone Thompson – dynamicgladstone1@gmail.com