University of Macau Debaters Reach Grand Final in Greater Bay Area Novice Championship 2025
University of Macau Debaters Reach Grand Final in Greater Bay Area Novice Championship 2025
Members of the University of Macau English Debating Team (EDT), Jing Ming Maria Lin Jiang, Zoe from the FSS and CKYC, and Li Yayi, Kathy from the FST and LCWC, have advanced to the Grand Final of the Greater Bay Area Novice Championship 2025. Despite having only paired up for less than a month, their outstanding performance has earned them a place in the final round of this prestigious tournament.
Zoe and Kathy’s journey to the Grand Final has been truly inspiring. They rapidly developed their skills and knowledge by learning from senior debaters and judges throughout the competition. Demonstrating grace in triumph and resilience in the face of challenges, they adeptly adapted to various debate motions while continuously refining their arguments and strategies. Their dedication and hard work ultimately led them to overcome numerous teams and secure their spot in the final.
Although they did not claim the championship, both Zoe and Kathy expressed immense enjoyment from the experience, emphasizing the invaluable lessons learned during the competition. They extend heartfelt gratitude to the University of Macau and the EDT family, whose guidance has been instrumental in their journey from beginners to finalists. They also appreciate the opportunity to represent UM in this championship, which allows novice debaters to learn, practice, and engage in meaningful exchanges with peers from universities across the Greater Bay Area.
In addition to Zoe and Kathy, four other teams from EDT have also performed exceptionally well. Quarter Finalists Nathan Briane Nibbs (FBA and CYTC) and Ip Chi Cheong (FST and CKPC); Octo Finalists Bi Man I (FBA and CKPC), Liu Si Cen (FAH and CKLC), Chen Xi (FLL and LCWC), He Jun Ting (FBA and CKLC), Zhang Zhi Xin (FAH and LCWC), and Deng Lin Di (FAH and CKYC). Their strong performances demonstrate the high level of skill and dedication within the UMEDT.
The contributions of the EDT judges are also noteworthy. Wang Sizhe (FSS and CKLC), who was awarded the 2nd Best Judge and served as the School Grand Final Chair; Wang Xirui (FAH and CKYC), the Open Semifinal Chair; Zhu Shuairon (FBA and CYTC), the Open Semifinal Panelist; and Zhang Kai (FSS and HFPJC), the Open Octofinal Chair and Open Semifinal Panelist, all did an excellent job in guiding and supporting the tournament.
Looking ahead, the UM English Debating Team is committed to participating in future tournaments. They aim to build on this success, continually striving for greater achievements while fostering a spirit of excellence in debate. The team is excited about the growth and learning opportunities that lie ahead as they work together to enhance their skills and proudly represent the University of Macau.
Group Photo of UM EDT members
Li Yayi, Kathy and Jing Ming Maria Lin Jiang, Zoe
Jing Ming Maria Lin Jiang, Zoe
Li Yayi, Kathy
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