Hi everyone!

My name is Sami Jama, and I am a senior at Moorhead High School. For the past three years, Speech and Debate has been the cornerstone of my high school experience. It’s where I learned to find my confidence and connect with others through the power of performance and advocacy.

I’ve poured my heart into this activity: I’ve previously won NIETOC (National Individual Events Tournament of Champions) in Original Oratory, was a runner-up in Poetry and Drama at the MSHSL state tournament, while also winning Dramatic Interpretation at almost all tournaments this year while also going back to back champ in Original Oratory at NIETOC!

But most of all, I am beyond excited to share that I have qualified for the National Speech & Debate Tournament being held in Richmond, Virginia, this June!

This trip is extra meaningful to me because my birthday is also in June. There would be no better way to celebrate turning 18 than by representing Moorhead on the national stage. I would love nothing more than to spend my birthday in Richmond, doing what I love and competing against the best in the country.

Competing at the national level is the culmination of years of practice and rehearsals. However, the costs associated with a trip of this scale, including registration fees, airfare, and a week of hotel accommodations are high. As I prepare to graduate and move on to the next chapter of my life, covering these expenses on my own is a significant challenge.

I am asking for your support to help make this trip possible. Your donation is greatly appreciated.

No contribution is too small. Whether it’s $5, $25, or $100, every dollar brings me closer to Richmond. If you aren't able to donate at this time, sharing this page with your friends and family would mean the world to me.

Thank you for supporting the voices of young speakers. I am so grateful for this community and can't wait to make you proud at Nationals!

Sami Jama ♥️