NCF giving out 55 tablets to top 55 writers

Children 7 to 12-year-olds have a chance to say what Barbados means to them, the kind of country they would want to see in the future and win great prizes too.

As part of the national Independence/Republic celebrations, the National Cultural Foundation has launched The 2021 My Barbados: Our Future composition competition. Thanks to SmartStore Inc sponsorship, the Foundation will reward the 55 top writers by giving them one tablet each.

The competition, which started on Monday, November 15 will run until November 25, 2021. Entrants have been asked to write an essay of 200 to 400 words and to submit a video recording reading the said essay.

The project aims to get children thinking about national identity, the country’s future and their place in helping to make their dream a reality.

The NCF believes the project provides a prime opportunity to get students engaged in the national celebrations and to also add their voices to shaping their future.

NCF’s Chief Executive Officer, Carol Roberts-Reifer said she is hoping that as many youth as possible take advantage of this golden opportunity, to have their voices heard and be involved in the national celebrations.

“As we make this historic transition to Republic status it is not only about us who remember Independence, those of us who are adults but it is also for the children. The NCF is asking them what kind of Barbados do you see for yourself and future generations. When they submit the written composition and accompanying video the Top 55 entrants will get a tablet each to help with their school work, reading and other positive activities.”

The NCF is urging parents to encourage their charges to participate but has also advised them to limit their assistance and allow the children to offer their own views. 

Daren Forde Sales and Business Development Associate at SmartStore Inc., said the company is pleased to be on board.

He said: “When we were contacted by the NCF to partner with them on this project we did not hesitate. We immediately saw the value in empowering 55 students with digital tools that will only add to their educational development.

“We are pleased to be associated with this national initiative which caters to our future generation, especially given the fact that our country’s 55th year of Independence is mere days away. We at SmartStore Inc. take this opportunity to urge as many children between age 7 – 12 to participate,” Forde added.

Literary Arts Officer at the NCF Karra Price said entrants will benefit from the competition and a budding writer may emerge.

“As Literary Arts Officer, I am pleased that we can engage our island’s youth in forms of written expression, who knows we may come upon the writings of future Bajan author. We hope that this exercise will build their confidence and let them know that they have something important to say.”

Those interested can log on to www.ncf.bb and visit our registration page for the competition rules. Submissions should be sent to Literary Officer Karra Price at karra-price@ncf.bb, no later than the Thursday, November 25th deadline. (PR)