Online Reporter
Brenda P Shumba, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE recently launched Lilos School of Public Speaking is making waves in Bulawayo’s educational landscape, with its second Spelling Bee competition — held on Saturday — drawing 65 learners from 12 local schools.
Building on the success of its inaugural edition, which attracted 92 participants, the second Spelling Bee, hosted at the Church of the Ascension in Hillside, continued to grow as a vibrant platform for enhancing language mastery and self-confidence, among learners from Grades Three to Seven.
The event captivated participants, teachers, and parents alike, offering a blend of healthy competition and educational enrichment.
Winners shone across the grade categories. In Grade Three, Gavin Munyamana (Masiyephambili Junior) claimed the top spot, with Shayne Mukandi (Masiyephambili Junior) in second place and Tamuda Kamusoko (Petra College Junior) finishing third.
In Grade Four, Lloyd Mgutshini (Masiyephambili Junior) emerged champion, followed by Buhlebemvelo Dube (Moray Primary) in second and Elroi Mashaba (Petra College Junior) in third.
In Grade Five, Lakidzani Huni (Petra College Junior) took first place, with Hayley Porter (Ark of Hope, Barham Green) and Vitalis Ruwuyo (Petra College Junior) placing second and third, respectively.
In Grade Six, Natalie Mtukwa (Kumalo Primary) secured first place, Cheryl Mabvurungwe (Coghlan Primary) came second, and Limkolwe Musi (Coghlan Primary) claimed third.
In Grade Seven, Indipile Maphosa (Petra College Junior) stood out as the overall champion with exceptional spelling skills.
As part of its broader educational initiative, Faith Dube, founder of Lilos School of Public Speaking, announced preparations for their next major event — a Public Speaking competition scheduled for August 2.
“The contest will be open to learners from Grades Three to Seven and will feature both prepared speeches (two minutes) and impromptu segments (one minute), giving students an opportunity to refine their confidence, critical thinking and communication skills,” Dube said.
She emphasised that the school’s vision extends beyond hosting competitions.
“Lilos School is about empowering students to express themselves clearly and confidently — whether in the classroom, on stage, or in everyday interactions. Initiatives like the Spelling Bee and the upcoming
Public Speaking Competition help nurture the soft skills that are critical for academic and personal success,” she said.
Affectionately known as Mamlilo — her maiden totem that inspired the school’s name, Dube brings 23 years of teaching experience to the initiative.
derick.khumalo