We’re beyond proud to celebrate our debaters for their extraordinary performances at the Shanghai International Debate Open 2026!
From 20 to 22 March 2026, the Shanghai International Debate Open brought together some of the brightest young debaters from across the region for three days of rigorous competition across Open, Under-16, and Under-14 divisions. One of the most fiercely contested international tournaments on the Asian circuit, it challenges students to think on their feet against top-tier opposition. Our debaters rose to the occasion in spectacular fashion, returning home with two championship titles, six semifinal finishes, five quarterfinal runs, and 14 speaker awards.
Lifting Two Trophies
In the Over-16 division, Tony S. (CIS) and Adam P. (CIS) were crowned Champions after a commanding run through the bracket. Adam capped off the weekend by being named Finals’ Best Speaker, a testament to his poise under pressure and his ability to think on his feet when the stakes were highest.
In the Under-16 division, Isabella Z. (BMA) claimed the Champion title, adding 4th Best Speaker to her haul. Her relentless dedication, grit, and passion were on full display across every round.
Deep Runs Across Every Division
Our debaters advanced deep into the knockout rounds in all three age categories. In the Over-16 Semifinals, we celebrated Pacey Q. (TLS), Emi R. (CIS), Gwyneth C. (DGS), Clarisse P. (SPCC), Ryan Q. (HKIS), and Kelly A. (SPCC). In the Open Quarterfinals, Jeffrey S. (WIS) and Samuel K. (CIS) showed tremendous composure against strong opposition. Under-16 Quarterfinalists Renee Y. (ICS), Angela Q. (GSIS), and Miya L. (CIS) each brought sharp analysis and confident delivery to the table, and Jasper N. (CIS) reached the Semifinals in the Under-14 division, one of the youngest brackets at the tournament.
Named Among the Top Speakers
The speaker tab reflected the depth of talent across our squads. In the Over-16 division, Adam P. (CIS) was Finals’ Best Speaker, followed by Samuel K. (CIS) at 3rd, Jeffrey S. (WIS) at 5th, Tony S. (CIS) at 6th, Aiden T. (CIS) at 9th, Kai Kai W. (ASJ) at 11th, Moses L. (CIS) at 12th, Kelly A. (SPCC) at 13th, and Ryan Q. (HKIS) at 14th. In the Under-16 division, Emi R. (CIS) took 2nd Best Speaker, Isabella Z. (BMA) placed 4th, and Gemma Y. (KGV) was named 6th. In the Under-14 division, Renee Y. (ICS) earned 7th Best Speaker and Jasper N. (CIS) placed 8th.
