Youth Voices: Karishma Mayes

Speaking to Newswatch ahead of June 16th, the Phoenix resident says she aims to help people in any way she can.

If she isn't helping in her community she is preparing to debate among the best in the province and country.

Growing up, Mayes says she always knew she was different from her peers. A curious mind and a hunger to know more is what set her apart. 

The Solvista Secondary School learner is also the head girl and admits that her duties doesn't stop once she leaves school.

Mayes recently started to get involved in her community by lending a helping hand, most notably to the elderly. 

Her generosity landed her the Young Community Achiever Award for 2015, an award she did not know about and was presented to her by Durban entrepreneur and tycoon, Vivian Reddy.

Although she's in her matric year, Mayes says she is undecided about participating in her 5th provincial debating competition scheduled for later in the year.

Her debating prowess has also rubbed off on her brother who is now following in her footsteps.

Mayes plans to study law next year and will join a debating team at the institution where her application is accepted. 

She says she discovered her passion for debating at an early age and will hold onto it for as long as she can.

To listen to her whole interview with Newswatch's Chanelle Lutchman - click below.