Bryan Dong

Born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, Bryan Dong is a civically engaged and globally minded international student at the Middlesex School in the United States. Driven by his passions in equity, debate, and public service, Bryan seeks to create meaningful impact in communities both locally and internationally. Deeply involved in discourse, he is one of twelve members on the USA National Debate Team, selected from over 140,000 NSDA members nationwide. With more than six years of competitive debate experience, Bryan previously competed on the USA National Development Team and now represents Team USA while serving as the World Schools Debate Deputy Director of Equality in Forensics. He has coached dozens of students to regional and state-level tournaments and contributed significantly to expanding World Schools Training resources globally. Beyond debate, Bryan is an academic activist committed to justice-driven scholarship and service. He has interned with the Massachusetts Trial Courts, volunteered with the American Civil Liberties Union, and collaborated with various African humanitarian organizations. Internationally, he contributes to reparative justice efforts, conducts research on South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and works with organizations including the South African Institute of International Affairs and Afrika Tikkun. Bryan is also the founder of the Juventus Justice Foundation which seeks to expand legal education and pro-bono support to marginalized youth in the juvenile justice system. At school, Bryan serves as debate captain, chief writer of The Anvil, a DEI workshop host, and an organizer for TEDxMiddlesex. Outside of his work, he enjoys African literature, crafting elaborate ramen dishes, and spending time with his teammates. Through discourse, scholarship, and action, Bryan strives to foster more just, equitable, and inclusive systems.