A few words for a flight

Ju-Ané Oberholzer
The 30th annual German Sprachwettbewerb (Speaking Competition) took place on September 16th, 2017. Roshaan Leukes, a fellow Grade 11 learner, worked hard to win a free flight ticket to Germany in May 2018.
“In Grade 8, I partook for the first time in the Sprachwettbewerb and came second. It was the worst feeling in the world because I was exceedingly positive about that first place. I then told myself that I’m going to re-enter in Grade 11 to give it another shot. I must add that I was rather unsure at first as it seemed quite daunting, but Mrs. Schommarz and my fellow foreign language buddies managed to convince me to do so!” As a result, Roshaan took up arms ad entered the competition.
This was not just a competition, but there were also various fun activities. The Goethe-institute made sure that there was plenty to do for each and every participant- even if it just meant eating the day away! When it was to time take part, you were teamed up with someone form another school, had 15 minutes to prepare, and then it was expected of you to speak the best German you can! She learned that “Remaining calm in a stressful situation is the key to true success. Stressing just ruins your chance of making a success of a tough situation.” Grade 10 and 11 learners who came first won free flight tickets to Germany, and when Roshaan heard that she won, she exclaimed, “It was the most phenomenal feeling in the world! I am incredibly happy, but also very emotional as I didn’t quite expect it. I have tremendous joy in my heart- not only for winning, but also for having had the opportunity to represent my school in the 30th Sprachwettbewerb presented by the Goethe- institute. No words can describe the satisfaction I have within me, knowing that I made my school, my family and myself exceedingly proud. I feel really elated to have done so. “
When I asked her what she will do in Germany, she replied, “I am tremendously excited for my trip to Germany. I’m going to visit several cities and ensure that I get an accurate and deep understanding of the German culture and way of doing things- something I’ve always wanted to do. I’m also planning on watching a German football game to experience the remarkable atmosphere we only see on television.
She advises all future German Foreign Language students to also take part in this competition if they are lucky enough to get the opportunity, she urges everyone to follow the montra, “work hard, work smart and work effectively.” But most importantly, off course, speak as much German as possible!