The Debate Society at Rahma Center
By the Grace of Almighty, for the second year in a row, our Debate Society reached the semifinals of the OCDL National Championship. Of more than 100 teams that competed, we sent five.
How our teams finished:
★ Two teams won 2 of 3; one team won 4 of 5
★ Two teams advanced to Day 2 and on to the semifinals, dropping just one round each
Two debaters against the odds
One team stood out: just two debaters — 5th and 6th graders — faced three-person teams every round, and still won 3 of 5.
Facing the best — and coming out ahead
Our two semifinalist teams faced and beat a Golden Gavel winner and a respected team with a 14-season record — a testament to our students’ preparation and poise, alhamdulillah.
A bonus honor: a topic suggested by one of our own debaters was chosen for the National Finals Impromptu Round.
None of this happens by accident
Our society runs entirely on volunteers — high-school judges who showed up all season while juggling finals, SATs, and AP exams, and coaches who left work early, week after week. Every drill, round, and certification happened because our community made our children’s growth their priority.
“He who has been given eloquence in speech has been given a great portion of good.”
— Imam Ali (AS)
Thank you to our coaches, parents, volunteer judges, and debaters. We are so proud of you, and truly humbled.
The journey continues, iA.
— Your Debate Society at The Rahma Center
As Imam Ali (عليه السلام) said:
“He who has been given eloquence in speech has been given a great portion of good.”
We strive to help every student find their voice, speak with clarity, and use their words to shape the future. Your support fuels the next generation of thoughtful & confident leaders.