About IDC

Founded in 2020, the International Debating Championships (IDC) has grown into a respected global online debating tournament. It provides a diverse international platform that expands debating opportunities and connects students across the Australasian and Asia-Pacific regions and beyond.

A Global Stage for Young Debaters

Founded in 2020 by Georgia Chahoud in partnership with the Sydney Debating League, the International Debating Championships (IDC) has swiftly evolved into a respected, independent international championship. Our journey has been marked by passion, commitment, and a profound impact in the debating community.

We take pride in offering a valuable platform where schools and institutions can engage with new cohorts of debaters beyond the confines of earlier tournaments in the year and cities, and expand their competitive horizons. As a pioneer in online debating, IDC now attracts over 260 teams annually, primarily from the Australasian and Asia-Pacific regions, while reaching across continents to include participants from Africa and the Middle East.

With a dedicated focus on the Australasian and Asia-Pacific regions, IDC is committed to innovation and excellence within the debate and public speaking industry. We have introduced pioneering initiatives that reshape the debate landscape and set new standards.

At IDC, we embrace diversity and inclusivity, welcoming students from all backgrounds into a supportive, collaborative environment that fosters growth, mutual respect, and a sense of global community.

Students debating
10,000+
Participants
OUR MISSION

We see debate as a tool for peace, understanding, and ethical leadership

At IDC, our mission is to empower young minds through the transformative art of debate, fostering open-mindedness, empathy, and a commitment to positive change. We provide a platform where students confidently express diverse perspectives, challenge ideas, and build bridges across cultures, nurturing a global community.

IDC Core Values

Inclusivity

We create a welcoming environment where students from diverse backgrounds feel respected, heard, and encouraged to share their unique perspectives.

Respect

We promote respectful discourse that challenges ideas thoughtfully while honouring every individual with dignity.

Excellence

We uphold high standards in debate, organisation, and participant support to deliver a first-class learning experience.

Empowerment

We empower students to find their voices, express their ideas with confidence, and grow into effective communicators and future leaders.

The People Behind IDC

Meet the Team

Our team is composed of passionate individuals with extensive experience in debating, education, and event organization. Dedicated to inspiring the next generation of leaders, our team brings together expertise from various fields to create an enriching and inclusive debating experience for all participants.

Learn more about the people behind the International Debating Championships (IDC), who work tirelessly to ensure that every championship is a memorable and impactful experience for students around the world.

Georgia Chahoud

Co-founder

With a vision for global inclusivity in debate, Georgia co-founded IDC to provide students worldwide with the opportunity to engage in meaningful discourse. President of Macquarie University Debating Society, 2017–2018.

Conna Leslie

Former Chief Adjudicator

As Chief Adjudicator, Conna is responsible for setting challenging, thought-provoking motions and ensuring high level adjudication standards. With a background in university-level debate, Conna provides insightful guidance and feedback for participants.

Jade Di Girolamo

Chief Adjudicator

Jade supports the Chief Adjudicator in training and mentoring adjudicators, drawing on extensive experience as a competitive debater and judge. She is committed to upholding a high standard of debate across all rounds.

Jack Glass

Deputy Chief Adjudicator

Jack supports the Chief Adjudicator in training and mentoring adjudicators, drawing on extensive experience as a competitive debater and judge. He is committed to upholding a high standard of debate across all rounds.