Representing Khulna’s first Bengali-medium team, GCGSDC 1, she faced unique challenges but won five of eight rounds in her initial attempt
In the realm of debate, where logic, intelligence, and the power of persuasion converge, Debjani Kurchi Kakon from Khulna stands out.
With an unwavering commitment to uplifting others, she has become a remarkable figure, shattering stereotypes and creating a lasting impact.
Debjani has fearlessly used her voice to advocate for Bangladesh’s vulnerable communities, setting a powerful example for young women debaters across the nation.
After a health setback ended her dream of becoming an Olympian, Debjani pivoted to public speaking, sharing her story to inspire others.
Her debate journey began on the stage of a Bengali Asian Parliamentary Debate Tournament, where she defeated a senior team as a novice.
This early victory captured the attention of the debate community, propelling her to both national and international stages, where she has competed in over 80 debates and won more than 25 championships, runner-up titles, and best debater trophies.
Driven to push her boundaries, Debjani made her debut in the English debating circuit by participating in the World Schools Debating Championship.
Representing Khulna’s first Bengali-medium team, GCGSDC 1, she faced unique challenges but won five of eight rounds in her initial attempt.
A year later, her team reached the novice semifinals, marking a historic milestone. By 2023, she became the youngest octo-finalist in the open category of the WSDC pre-Worlds.
Debating on national platforms enabled Debjani to build a strong network. After her SSC exams, she moved from her hometown to join the Mirpur Cantonment Public Debating Club (MCPDC), where she quickly became a cornerstone, serving as both President and coach, dedicating her time to guiding younger debaters.
Reflecting on her journey, Debjani said: “Debate taught me to be the adult I needed growing up. I hope every student like me experiences the empowerment I feel standing at the podium. That feeling is unmatched.”
Debjani’s notable achievements include winning the Bangladesh Television Debating Championship 2024, the 17th, 18th, and 20th Pre-Worlds from 2020 to 2023, the Inter Cantonment Debating Tournament 2023, the BFF Samokal National Science Debate Competition 2019, and the MTB LSS Earth Championship 2020. She aspires to study STEM abroad, focusing on biology and physics.
Recently, Debjani attended a gender-focused workshop titled, Building Awareness Against Disinformation Among Youth, hosted by the Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS) in collaboration with the US Embassy in Dhaka.
As the youngest participant among university graduates and professors, Debjani credited her debating experience for granting her access to such valuable opportunities.
A firm believer in the value of setbacks, Debjani’s story is one of resilience and determination.
Her journey exemplifies breaking barriers, uplifting others, and using debate as a force for change.
For now, her goal is to continue coaching, debating, and eventually representing her university at the World University Debating Championship.
Debjani continued strength as she continues to inspire and break new ground, an unstoppable force for positive change.
