The Insurance Corporation of Barbados Limited (ICBL) recently unveiled its sixth National Junior Spelling Bee, an event that not only celebrates spelling excellence but also underscores the transformative power of literacy in shaping young lives. The launch was met with palpable enthusiasm, as stakeholders gathered to support this educational initiative.
Chad Blackman, Minister of Educational Transformation, praised ICBL and its partners for their sustained commitment to education. He emphasized literacy as the cornerstone of national development, stating, ‘Our education system must evolve to prepare us for the future, rooted in our own ideals and focused on competitiveness.’ Blackman also highlighted the alignment of the Spelling Bee with the ministry’s literacy transformation program, urging nationwide recognition of literacy as a collective priority.
Amayah Chase, last year’s champion and the first public school student to win the national title, shared her inspiring journey. ‘Winning this competition was a dream come true. The prizes were exceptional, and my trip to London was unforgettable—I even met my great-grandparents for the first time,’ she recounted. Her former English teacher, Nakesha Hutson, lauded the competition for fostering literacy, academic excellence, and a passion for language.
ICBL CEO Goulbourne Alleyne expressed gratitude to sponsors, including new silver sponsor GO! Insect Repellent. Kristen Austin, Brand Developer for GO!, emphasized the company’s eagerness to support youth development through education. Republic Bank, a long-standing partner, reaffirmed its commitment via its ‘Power to Make a Difference’ program. Sharon Howell, Marketing Officer – Communications, remarked, ‘Education is the most powerful tool to shape a brighter future. Every child deserves the chance to unlock their potential.’
Since its inception, the ICBL Spelling Bee has drawn participants from both public and private schools across Barbados, offering students a platform to compete for prestigious honors and valuable prizes. This year’s edition promises to be even more engaging, with organizers teasing new elements to enhance the experience.
As anticipation builds, educators and sponsors continue to champion the Spelling Bee as a vital platform for inspiring academic excellence and nurturing a literate, confident generation.