The Caribbean island of Nevis has secured first runner-up honors in the fiercely competitive 54th Leeward Islands Debating Championship (LIDC 54), concluding March 15, 2026. Despite a valiant effort in the final round, Nevis was ultimately bested by defending champions Antigua, who retained their title with a decisive victory.
Hosting this year’s intellectual tournament, Nevis welcomed debating contingents from five neighboring islands: Anguilla, Antigua, Montserrat, St. Kitts, and Sint Maarten. The Nevis Performing Arts Centre (NEPAC) served as the prestigious venue for these cerebral clashes that showcased the region’s brightest young minds.
Team Nevis demonstrated exceptional prowess throughout the competition, particularly during Saturday’s Debate Four against Anguilla. The Nevisian team achieved an impressive 600.13 points, with debater Kijari Huggins earning individual acclaim as Best Speaker after accumulating 164.5 points.
The championship final on Sunday witnessed an intense intellectual duel between Nevis and Antigua. While Nevis delivered a strong performance scoring 639 points, Antigua’s commanding 694-point tally secured their continued dominance in the regional debating arena.
Honorable Mark Brantley, Premier of Nevis, personally presented trophies to both the winning and runner-up teams. In his congratulatory remarks, Brantley praised the exceptional quality of the final debate, describing it as “a spirited and intellectually engaging contest that showcased the remarkable talent and potential of our region’s young debaters.”
The Premier extended particular commendation to both finalist teams for their “discipline, preparation, and confidence displayed on the stage,” acknowledging all participants for making the championship a memorable event.
Representing Nevis in this year’s competition were six students from Nevis Sixth Form College: Kiara Barry, Rajaun Fyfield, Keyana Warner, Shirmia Thompson, Kijari Huggins, and Tahleya Phillip, whose collective efforts brought honor to their island nation.