NCF and SmartStore applaud young Bajan writers

By Shamar Blunt

Chief executive officer of the National Cultural Foundation (NCF), Carol Roberts-Reifer, has lauded the island’s youth for their impressive entries in the recently held My Barbados: Our Future Contest which saw children ages 7-12, writing essays of 200 to 400 words and submitting video recordings in recognition of the country’s 55th year of Independence and its switch to being a parliamentary republic.

While speaking at Thursday’s prize-giving ceremony, ast the Daphne Joseph Hackett Theatre, she told participants that the NCF strongly
believed that young children had their part to
play in adding their voice to the recently-held Independence celebrations.

“When we were tasked with coming up with a number of national activities to celebrate our 55th year of Independence and our transition to a parliamentary republic, we felt strongly that we had to find a creative and exciting way to engage the 7-12-year-old demographic.

“I felt strongly about that because very often we seem to believe that you little ones are not aware of what is happening in the world when I know for a fact that you are, and you actually have some very well thought out and interesting ideas about what is happening in your world,” she remarked.

The top 55 entries all received tablets compliments of the SmartStore, with the top three entries in the 7-9 and 10-12 age categories receiving additional prizes.

The competition also attracted a diverse group of entrants, including Barbadians of African and Indian descent, with students entering from a wide cross-section of schools.

Roberts added that stories submitted touched on a variety of subjects, which highlighted many aspects of the Barbadian landscape.

“[They included] traditional foods, and also heritage and recreation. Many of you touched on the theme of missing family and social gatherings, and this is understandable given the desire to socialise and interact, which has all been disrupted because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In congratulating the young writers, the CEO advised them to continue to let their voices be heard.

“On behalf of the board of management and staff of the NCF, I congratulate you on this achievement. You are all winners, and I want you to continue to believe in yourself, continue to give voice to what you really believe in, whether it’s sports, politics, food, friendship or fashion. Never be afraid to speak.”

The top three entrants in the 7-9 age group were Isabella Elias, Mercedes Morris and Shaquana Blackman. In the 10–12 age category, Sarah Chauhan, Shaylon Franklyn and Jamaya Johnson took top positions. (SB)