When words transform destiny: A look back at Ramissou Boni's triumph at the "Voices of Tomorrow" final

Cotonou, February 27, 2026. A date that will be forever etched in the history of MY BARIKA and in the hearts of hundreds of young Beninese. In the electric atmosphere of the Benin Excellence hall in Godomey, silence fell — giving way to the power of words.

After months of fierce competition, BONI Ramissou, from CEG Kandi (Alibori), was crowned National Champion of the first edition of the eloquence contest "Les Voix de Demain" (Voices of Tomorrow).

A final marked by excellence

Over 160 candidates entered, representing all 12 departments of Benin. Only 10 finalists earned the privilege of taking the stage for the grand finale. Before a panel of expert judges and an audience including education authorities and prestigious partners such as the Fondation Vallet and CAEB, these young leaders proved that the "New Generation" is ready to take flight.

Ramissou Boni: The meteoric rise of the lioness from Alibori

Ramissou's journey is the very definition of resilience and hard work. Ranked 15th in the pre-selection phase with a score of 81.5/100, nothing foreshadowed such a dominant performance in the final. Yet once on stage, Ramissou transcended the statistics. With perfect diction, expressive gestures, and a powerful conviction that moved the audience, she reminded everyone that eloquence is not merely the art of speaking well — it is the art of making truths resonate. Her victory sends a powerful message: no matter where you come from or where you start, boldness and preparation forge champions.

"The voice convinces, but emotion and gesture make it powerful — they transform a speech into impact." — MY BARIKA Organizing Committee

Mouphtaou Yarou's vision: From the court to the podium

For MY BARIKA's founder and president Mouphtaou Yarou, this success is the culmination of a deep conviction. A former professional basketball player who attended the prestigious Villanova University (USA), he has brought the discipline of high-level sport into education.

"I learned at Villanova that talent alone is not enough without work ethic. Today, with 'Voices of Tomorrow,' we give young people the most powerful weapon in the world: the ability to structure their thinking and persuade," he said proudly.

More than a competition — a springboard for life

Ramissou leaves not only with the title of "Voice of the Year 2026", but also, thanks to our partners, with a complete package for her future:

• The prestigious trophy and a gold medal

• A state-of-the-art educational tablet

• A collection of classic and African literary works

• An intensive public speaking coaching program

  
  

A note of thanks to our partners

This event would not have been possible without the institutional support of the Ministry of Secondary, Technical and Vocational Education, and the logistical support of Benin Excellence. Together, we are building a Benin where every child — from Kandi to Cotonou — has the right to dream and the power to speak.

The impact of eloquence on youth

Eloquence is far more than the art of speech. It empowers young people to assert themselves, defend their ideas, and engage in constructive debate. By developing their communication skills, we give them the keys to becoming active and responsible citizens.

The importance of education

Education is the cornerstone of our society. It allows everyone to flourish, discover their talents, and contribute to the collective good. By supporting initiatives like "Voices of Tomorrow," we invest in our country's future and in the potential of our youth.

Conclusion: Ready to make your voice heard?

Are you ready to make your voice heard? Join us for the 2nd edition! Together, we will keep building a promising future for our young people.

#MyBarika #LesVoixDeDemain #EloquenceBenin #YouthLeadership #EducationForAll