August 2024 

What an Incredible Month at the Bitou Spelling Stars 2024 Competition!

Wow, what an unforgettable journey we've had throughout August with the Bitou Spelling Stars Competition! Hosted by the amazing Bitou 10 Foundation and in proud partnership with the Bitou Municipality Libraries, this month-long event has been an absolute showcase of talent, excitement, and excellence! 

A huge round of applause to all the bright young stars who participated—you made us all so proud! This year, we were thrilled to see all the Western Cape Education Department schools in the Bitou area come together once again to take part in the competition. From Wittedrift Primary School, Phakamisani Primary School, Wittedrift High School, and Kranshoek Primary School, to Murray High School, Plettenberg Bay Primary School, Crags Primary School, Kwanokuthula Primary School, Plettenberg Bay Secondary School, Harkerville Primary School and Formosa Primary School—each and every one of you brought your A-game throughout the competition! 

We extend our deepest appreciation to our dedicated librarians and volunteers who played a pivotal role in the success of this month-long event. A massive thank you to our English category judges: Emmarenthia Du Preez, Chris du Preez, and Josephine Bruiners, with Mike Kantey announcing the words. Your commitment was evident, and we couldn’t have done it without you! 

For our Afrikaans category, heartfelt thanks go out to judges Stella Jantjies, Dianne McClean, and Varencia Deal, with the wonderful Hetta Ludik volunteering as the word announcer. You all did a fantastic job ensuring fairness and fun throughout the competition!  

And for the IsiXhosa category, we’re so grateful to judges Mhinki Mboxo, Nontsikelelo Funda, and Phumela Mnqaba, with Zandi Cuka (our B10F contracted staff member) doing an outstanding job as word announcer. Your dedication truly shone through all month long! 

A special shoutout to all the volunteers who gave their time and energy over these past weeks to support this event. Your contributions made all the difference, and we are incredibly grateful! 

But this competition was about so much more than just spelling—it was a month-long celebration of literacy, a key to unlocking countless doors for our children beyond the competition stage. By building these essential skills, we're empowering the next generation to achieve greatness, one word at a time!  

Thank you to everyone who joined us, cheered on the participants, and made this entire month unforgettable. Together, we’re making a lasting impact on the future of our community. Let’s continue to champion literacy and celebrate the brilliance of our young learners!