Alumni Spotlight: Saiyuri Rampathi

Matric Year: 2024

School: Trinityhouse Randpark Ridge

At just 19, Saiyuri Rampathi is already juggling university life, chasing big academic dreams, and coaching the next generation of Trinityhouse debaters. A proud Trinityhouse Randpark Ridge alumna (Class of 2024), she’s passionate about English, Linguistics, and mentoring – and somehow still finds time for series, music and market strolls.

We sat down with Saiyuri for a lively chat about life after school, debate, dreams, and what keeps her going. Spoiler alert: she’s as inspiring as she is down-to-earth.

You have only just matriculated, what has life been like since leaving Trinityhouse?
The transition has been a big one, but I’ve found my feet and I’m loving it so far. I am thoroughly enjoying my degree, and coaching debate continues to be a source of inspiration. This season feels very much like one of discovery, both academically and personally.
 

You chose English and Linguistics, what drew you there?
Honestly, it’s been a winding road. But once I got here, I knew this is where I belonged. My mentors sparked my love for literature and critical thought, and I realised how powerful literacy is for dignity, agency and even social change. The dream? One day becoming a professor, bridging English Studies and Applied Linguistics. (Yes, I know I sound like a nerd, but a passionate one!)
 

And on top of studying, you’re back at Trinityhouse as a debating coach. What’s that like?
I believe coaching carries a profound responsibility. Teaching is both a privilege and a calling, but it is also a two-way journey where I continue to learn from my debaters. My vision is to put Trinityhouse debating firmly on the map and to inspire students to see how it can open doors, create opportunities, and give them a powerful voice they never knew they had.
 

Looking back, how did Trinityhouse shape this love for debating?
Everything started at Trinityhouse. The coaches, the teachers, the mentors, they transformed my academic life and my personal journey. My first debate coach and a handful of English teachers opened doors I never even knew existed. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
 

What advice would you give to current Trinityhouse students?
Take it all in! Don’t waste time trying to create a “perfect” high school experience – it doesn’t exist. Instead, step into every moment with the mindset that you can learn from it. Be intentional, grab opportunities, and when life feels tough, look for those small glimmers of good that God leaves behind. They’ll keep you going until brighter days arrive.
 

Balancing university and coaching – how on earth do you do it?
I won’t lie, I haven’t perfected it yet! But the beauty is that I genuinely love both. When my studies get heavy, coaching feels like a breath of fresh air – and vice versa. Plus, what I’m studying feeds directly into my coaching, shaping the way I train my debaters. So, in a strange way, it’s all connected.
 

What’s the “big dream” for Saiyuri?
Academically, I want to become a professor specialising in critical literacy and consciousness. Personally, it’s simpler: to live with hope, resilience and intention – never cynical, always grounded. Oh, and somewhere in the far future, I’d like to start a family too.
 

Let’s lighten things up a bit, what do you do outside of books and debate?
Well, my hobbies are pretty nerdy – I love reading research, exploring new ideas and coming up with arguments to challenge my debaters. But I balance that out with series, films, music, markets, and time with family and friends.
 

Quick-fire round: let’s go!
Tea or coffee? Tea, always.
Debating or conversation? Conversation. (Though, I really enjoy both!)
Favourite song? Kun Faya Kun by AR Rahman – it always strengthens and comforts me.
Life quote? “Instead of praying ‘God, help me through this’, pray ‘God, help me see you in this’.”

Saiyuri’s story is proof that alumni don’t have to wait decades to inspire. With her mix of passion, purpose, and humour, she’s making her mark already, and reminding us all that the Trinityhouse journey doesn’t end at matric, it just changes shape.

Are you a Trinityhouse alumnus with a story to tell? Join the Trinitonian Alumni Network and let’s celebrate your journey too – because every story matters.