Three weeks ago, our team was invited to compete in the WHAU Debate Festival, hosted at Kelston Boys High School, alongside students from Avondale College, Kelston Boys’ High School, Kelston Girls’ College, and Henderson High School. 

Representing Waitākere College were Anita Mo’unga, Annika Schwalger, Leikamia Lito, and Benine Vavia. Over three weeks, they dedicated themselves to preparing, refining their arguments, challenging one another, and growing as a team.
With the guidance of our incredible tuakana from The Malosi Project and the unwavering support of Mr T and Miss Iripa, all of their hard work came together on the debate floor.

We are incredibly proud to announce that Waitākere College are the 2026 WHAU Debate Festival WINNERS! Our girls were also acknowledged by our esteemed judges -Hon. Carmel Sepuloni, Angee Nicholas, and Noelani Ah Chong - for their outstanding ability to reflect on and incorporate feedback throughout the competition, their organisation and preparation, and the confidence, personality, and sass they brought to the stage. Their ability to speak with conviction while remaining authentic was a true testament to the hard work they invested over the past few weeks.

Congratulations, Anita, Annika, Leikamia, and Benine. Thank you for representing Waitākere College with excellence, courage, and pride. You have shown the power of preparation, teamwork, and believing in your voices.
A heartfelt thank you to the Malosi Project, our judges, Whau team, whānau, Miss Itamua, Miss Jordyn Passi and everyone who supported our students throughout this journey. 

Photo credit to @capturedbyroberta for the beautiful photos captured on the night. We couldn’t be prouder of what these young wāhine have achieved.