A team of Jamaican men showed the world what it means to “Use Your Words” as they won the prestigious 2023 Junior Chamber International World Debate Championship, held in Zurich, Switzerland, on November 17.
It follows their regional victory earlier in the year, becoming the Americas champion.
JCI World Debating Championship, known for its rigorous process, invites the most exceptional talent from across the world. As such, JCI Jamaica’s victory is a testament to their unwavering dedication, commitment, and hard work.
The team is made up of Odell Marsh – National President of Junior Chamber International who also acted as team coach along with Marklon Bedward- 1st Speaker, Miguel Edmondson – 2nd Speaker, Reneil Clarke – Team Captain, and Vitkor Omarsson – 2023 JCI World President in the world championship showcased their unparalleled debating skills, leaving a lasting impression on judges and spectators alike.
Their ability to deliver compelling arguments, employ logic, and reasoning, and eloquently articulate their viewpoints set them apart from the competition.
Marsh credited their resounding victory “to thorough research, meticulous preparation, and an unwavering determination.” This is because they knew they had fierce competition with going up against Malaysia.
With Jamaica presenting the ‘against’ argument for the Final Motion – “Innovation is more important than regulation in promoting entrepreneurship,” Malaysia had to settle for the runner-up spot.
Marsh told SLEEK news that the team is, “Grateful for the opportunity to represent our country and contribute to the global discourse, knowing that JCI Jamaica’s success in the JCI World Debate Championship not only brings recognition to the team but also highlights members’ aptitude for intellectual engagement and critical thinking.”
The Jamaica JCI aims to use this victory to further its recruitment drive to build out its organization across the island through junior JCI organizations in high schools and tertiary institutions.
Marsh says the win “Will also help to recruit potential sponsors to the organization to fund many of our other programmes including the Creative Young Entrepreneurs Program which is geared towards exposing young entrepreneurs to the wider world through mentoring and pitching.”
Jamaica is now the World and Americas champion for 2023.
