Braeburn Scholars at the Tournament of Champions
22nd November 2025
A team of Braeburn scholars recently travelled to Yale University to compete in the World Scholars Cup Tournament of Champions, joining top students from around the world for a week of academic challenge, cultural exchange and discovery.
Before the events began, the team explored New York and Connecticut, visiting landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Oculus, while also enjoying sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline. The crisp American autumn provided the perfect backdrop as the delegation settled in and bonded.
The Tournament officially opened in Yale’s historic Woolsey Hall, where scholars were welcomed through interactive activities, including the popular Scholars Scavenge and a lively encounter with Painted Warrior, the WSC alpaca mascot. Academic rounds soon followed, with Braeburn students debating, writing and tackling the demanding Scholars Challenge at the atmospheric Watson Center.
At the Cultural Fair, our delegation proudly showcased Kenyan heritage, sharing curios and cultural insights with students from across the globe, representing 67 countries. The Scholars Bowl, Scholars Show and Scholars Ball added further excitement and celebration to the week.
A standout moment came at the Awards Ceremony, where Christianne Otieno earned an extraordinary 10 medals and Atinuke Olajide achieved 6 medals, both emerging as Braeburn’s top scholars and contributing to an impressive overall medal haul. Out of more than 1,200 students, Christianne placed among the top 12 scholars worldwide in Collaborative Writing, while his team, consisting of Atinuke and Maximilian Mwangi from Braeside Thika, won all three of their debates, an exceptional accomplishment.
The scholars returned home enriched by new friendships, global experiences and a renewed confidence gained from competing on an international stage, an achievement the entire Braeburn community is proud to celebrate.
Eunice Muthama
