Sioux Falls teen places 6th in national speech and debate tournament

SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO) – A Sioux Falls teen is celebrating after placing among the top 10 finalists in the National Speech and Debate Tournament last week.

Siyanne Redda graduated from Washington High School in May, but her time as a warrior wasn't quite over. Last week, she competed in the National Speech and Debate Tournament in Des Moines.

“It’s, I guess it wraps up my high school career with speeches and debates and everything, so it was a good way to end my time with Washington,” Siyanne Redda said. “So I’m really happy about that.”

She finished on a high note, placing 6th nationally in the tournament.

“It meant a lot to me. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a very long time,” said Siyanne Redda. “We watch these videos of people performing on that final stage as a learning experience, like how to be like them, how to make their speech as good as theirs. »

Siyanne Redda is no stranger to the art of delivering a great speech, whether on the debate stage, at graduation or in front of the city of Sioux Falls.

“My hope for you, Sioux Falls, as I seek growth in my own life, is that you maintain this strong sense of who you are. This tight-knit, supportive community as you grow as well,” Siyanne Redda said during the 2024 State of the City address.

His family couldn't be more proud of all his accomplishments.

“Siyanne is someone who sets goals and works hard to achieve them.
“And it’s paying off,” said Adane Redda, Siyanne Redda’s father. “She’s going to do great things in the future to change people’s lives.” »

In the fall, Siyanne will attend Harvard University to study neuroscience, Spanish, and mathematics.
Currently, she is enjoying the rest of her summer visiting family in Ethiopia.