The World Scholar's Cup in Qatar

The World Scholar's Cup is an extraordinary and transformative experience. It offers much more than just academic competition—it creates lasting connections, challenges you intellectually, and allows you to compete against individuals with exceptional capabilities. By the end of the World Scholar's Cup, your fellow competitors become lifelong friends. This academic event thrives on the pillars of knowledge, creativity, and courage, inspiring teamwork and a competitive spirit.

Our journey began in Qatar after enduring three flights that landed us at our hotel in the early hours of the morning. Eager to prepare for the day ahead, we settled down for some much-needed rest. While our juniors embarked on their debates, scholars' challenges, and collaborative writing, the seniors attended the opening ceremony and were grouped with unfamiliar faces, providing an opportunity to socialize and perhaps assess our competition. The day commenced with an exhilarating scavenger hunt at an indoor amusement park, where we not only enjoyed rollercoaster rides but also completed intriguing tasks. In the evening, we reconvened at the Qatar National Convention Center for a social dinner before returning to the hotel to rejuvenate.

On the second day, the seniors understood the significance of this momentous day abroad. It marked the commencement of our debates, with some of us engaging in morning sessions and others in the afternoon. Although debating can be uncomfortable, it undeniably enhances our skills as public speakers. Subsequently, we proceeded to the collaborative writing segment, where individuals chose between writing traditional essays or exploring their creativity based on one of the six provided questions. Afterward, we faced the scholars' challenge, a solo multiple-choice test. Returning to the hotel, we embraced our cherished kangas and dirahs before joining fellow scholars at the cultural fair, which showcased the awe-inspiring traditions, cultures, and cuisine of various countries.

The third day commenced with the scholars' bowl, another multiple-choice test, but with the added advantage of team communication and a prominent question board visible to everyone. The revelation of answers after the time elapsed evoked a mix of frustration and exhilaration. We then proceeded to witness the debate showcase and scholars' show, where individuals passionately presented organized arguments and showcased their talents. Among them were Kristine, Lara, Lilah, and Gracie, who took the stage with beautiful songs. Following an eventful day, we returned to the hotel, refreshed ourselves, and headed to the scholars' ball, where we danced until the late hours, well, at least until 11 pm.

Fortunately, the seniors were granted a day off next. We commenced with a visit to the Tanzanian ambassador, as per his request, to share our experiences in Qatar. Later, we enjoyed shopping at a vast mall, explored a captivating museum with digital presentations of history and interactive stations, visited a bustling market, and concluded the day with a delightful dinner before returning to the hotel.

On the final day, the scholar's show began, and I had the privilege of performing. The experience was exhilarating as the stage surpassed anything I had ever seen before, and the crowd was exceptionally large. Finally, before embarking on our exhausting journey home consisting of three flights, we gathered for the closing ceremony. This momentous occasion celebrated our achievements, with the first accolade bestowed upon our beloved teacher, Mr. Kennedy, who won the trophy for Coach of the Year. All of the senior Braeburn students received medals in debating, the scholar's challenge, or collaborative writing. Our team, consisting of Jasmine, Serena, and myself, proudly earned a team trophy for sixth place in collaborative writing, while I personally received a trophy for first place in the same category. Receiving an award in a competition where thousands of scholars possess similar capabilities and potential is genuinely challenging. Lastly, I would like to express my utmost gratitude to our teachers, Mr. Kennedy, Ms Patricia and Ms Taylor.

Article by Kennedy Ombuni