In a world where voices can often quarrel and die out, the art of speech and debate can offer up as not just a platform for respectable arguments, but can pose as a revolutionary tool for self-empowerment. Regardless of your background, uniting such a diverse community of individuals in this platform is what makes this journey foster confidence within the individuals. But how do we create such an inspiring environment, where everyone can not only freely share their unique skill and perspective but embrace another’s?
The Importance of Diversity
Firstly, what does it mean for a community to be diverse? To me, it encompasses a group of individuals from different races, genders, sexual orientations, and backgrounds coming together to engage in an enriching and dynamic space like Speech & Debate. As optimistic as it sounds, many individuals often face barriers that restrict their confidence and participation. For example, people have to fight against societal norms, stereotypes and discrimination of all kinds which can often be unfair struggles. But by acknowledging and understanding these challenges, we can work together to create a unified space when everyone has a sense of belonging. Not only can this benefit our mental health but it opens doors for creativity and discovery that the world can benefit from.
Cultivation Confidence Through Inclusivity
Often wishing for confidence to sprout within yourself or your community is just not enough. Most times, action is required to regenerate this process. Some ways can include participating or hosting mentorship programs that provide inclusivity in a supportive network, where individuals can exercise and build their confidence through guidance. Another way is through casual debates on diverse topics that can resonate with experiences of everyone, without regard to their background. This can not only help you embrace your own confidence but help push others to get to know their confident-selfs.
Coming back to the main argument, by understanding the importance of diversity within a community and leveraging that aspect to cultivate your own confidence or your surroundings’ is what makes the previously mentioned inspiring environment. Without either of these ideas embracing one another, the community would not be able to flourish to the heights that we desire. Together, we can transform not only the Speech and Debate platform but all fields of life, if only one can value diversity and use it to thrive.
Nishka Gandu
Bentonville, AR
11th Grade
Instagram-@nishka_gandu
Comments