Ten-year-old Karice Ann Ferron, a Grade 6 student at George Headley Primary School, has emerged as the winner of the fourth annual “This is Jamaica” Poetry Scholarship Competition. Her moving performance earned her the first-place title, a US$1,000 scholarship, and the honor of being named the 2024 “This is Jamaica” Ambassador.
The competition, which celebrates young Jamaican talent, saw participation from over 80 students across the island. The event was streamed live on Jamaicans.com, giving audiences a glimpse of the talent and passion of Jamaica’s future poets.
Celebrating Top Performers
Karice’s exceptional performance was not the only highlight of the event. The competition also recognized Second Prize Winner: Ngozi Wright, 12, Grade 7, St. Andrew High School for Girls in Kingston.
Third Prize Winner: Mohalia McLean, 11, Grade 6 student at Mona Heights Primary in Kingston.
All three winners hail from the parish of St. Andrew, showcasing the area’s strong cultural foundation in the arts. Additionally, the top ten finalists will be acknowledged and rewarded for their outstanding contributions to this year’s competition.
Supporting Education and the Arts
George Headley Primary School, Karice’s alma mater, will receive a US$500 grant to support its cultural arts program, furthering its mission to nurture young talent.
This year’s event was made possible through the generous support of Title Sponsor Lorraine J. Smith of the Lorraine J. Smith Foundation. “This is Jamaica” Inc. extends its heartfelt thanks to the organizing team: President Adrianna Clark, Vice President Joan Edghill, Secretary Nadine Dixon, PR Director Mea Allman, and Ambassadors Tania Lou, Wayne Hall, Robert Shaw, and Evanne McKoy.
The Power of Poetry
Through competitions like these, “This is Jamaica” Inc. continues to inspire and empower young Jamaicans while preserving the nation’s rich cultural heritage. The organization remains dedicated to fostering creativity and unity through the arts.
