Greenwood Park Primary pupil crowned spelling bee champ
Speaking about her triumph, Hadassah said she was ‘shocked and excited at the same time’ when her name was announced as the winner. While fortuitous proved to be the toughest word of the contest, she approached it with calm confidence.
Eight-year-old Hadassah Pather from Newlands East has made her school and community proud after claiming first place in a recent district spelling bee competition.
The Greenwood Park Primary School pupil impressed judges and spectators with her composure and sharp memory, securing victory with the word fortuitous.
Speaking about her triumph, Hadassah said she was ‘shocked and excited at the same time’ when her name was announced as the winner. While fortuitous proved to be the toughest word of the contest, she approached it with calm confidence.
“I learned this word, so I knew I would get it right. My mum even had a feeling it would come up in the competition,” she explained.
Her preparation involved dedication and discipline. Hadassah shared that she practiced by learning a few words at a time, much like her weekly spelling tests.
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Her mother, Gizzele Nicole Pather, would test her regularly, helping her pronounce and break down difficult words.
“I also practiced in front of the mirror. Breaking up words helped me, and I have a very good memory,” she added. Hadassah expressed deep gratitude for her mother’s unwavering support throughout her spelling journey. “My mum supported me from day one right to the end, and her constant support means everything to me. I am grateful for her,” she said warmly.
Her mother echoed this sentiment, praising her daughter’s determination.
“Hadassah was diligent and dedicated when it was study time. She worked hard and was sometimes hard on herself. She wouldn’t back down until she got the word right. She has a retentive memory, so I was confident she would at least make the top 10. She surprised me by taking first place. Well done, my baby, your hard work has paid off,” Gizzele shared.
Offering advice to aspiring spellers, Hadassah encouraged her peers to embrace consistency and confidence. “Hard work pays off. Learn your words and be confident,” she concluded. Hadassah Pather with other participants of the spelling bee competition.
