分类： entertainment

The Cultural Division of Dominica has unveiled the winners of the 2025 Independence Literary Competition, a prestigious event that honors the island’s literary prowess across diverse genres and languages. Held annually as part of Dominica’s Independence festivities, the competition underscores the nation’s vibrant literary traditions and the profound impact of storytelling in English, Kwéyòl, and Kokoy.

In the English Poetry category, Blanch Athanaze Winston emerged victorious with her poignant piece titled ‘Mother.’ Leandra Lander secured second place with ‘Heaven Call Centre,’ while Netisha S. Durand’s ‘Pass We Passing’ claimed third place. The Short Story category saw Yahima Cuffy-Bazil take the top spot for ‘Names Too Numerous to Mention,’ with Vince Arnold Savarin’s ‘Summertime’ and Ian Jackson’s ‘Bamboo House’ earning second and third places, respectively.

The Kwéyòl Poetry division celebrated Iris André’s ‘Mwen Sé Donmnik’ as the first-place winner, followed by Blanch Athanaze Winston’s ‘Ou Sé’ in second place. Yahima Cuffy-Bazil also triumphed in the Kokoy Poetry category with ‘Behind Gad Back,’ while Ian Jackson’s ‘Dominican Soldier, Inna Merica’ secured second place.

The Cultural Division lauded all participants for their dedication to preserving and promoting Dominica’s linguistic and cultural heritage through their literary contributions. This year’s competition not only highlighted the creative talents of Dominican writers but also reinforced the enduring significance of storytelling in shaping the island’s cultural identity.

Dominican author Clement Richards has captivated readers with his newly released historical novel, *Indian Warner: The Son of Two Worlds*, which delves into the life of Indian Warner, a mixed-heritage figure who rose to prominence in 17th-century Dominica. Available in paperback on Amazon and set for an audio release by October 31, the book has sparked widespread interest for its nuanced portrayal of Warner’s complex identity and legacy.

Indian Warner, born in St. Kitts to Sir Thomas Warner, the first English colonizer in the Eastern Caribbean, was appointed Deputy Governor of Dominica. However, Richards reveals that this title was a political ploy to curb his influence. Despite this, Warner emerged as the de facto leader, wielding significant power. The novel traces Warner’s early life of privilege, including access to education and weaponry—luxuries seldom granted to individuals of mixed heritage. Following his father’s death, Warner faced colonial racism and betrayal from his brother, who later orchestrated his murder, forcing him to flee to Dominica at age 15.

In Dominica, Warner’s fluency in English, French, and Kalinago allowed him to integrate seamlessly into Kalinago society. Within 15 years, he ascended to the position of Carib Obutu (chief), fully embracing indigenous customs and shedding European influences. His leadership and resistance to European colonial forces made him a target, leading to his assassination near the village now known as Massacre—a name that stands as a grim reminder of colonial violence.

Richards’ novel blends historical facts with imaginative reconstruction, challenging colonial narratives that dismissed the Kalinago as uncivilized. The book highlights their sophisticated social structures and communal values, offering a fresh perspective on indigenous history. Richards also critiques myths surrounding figures like the Kalinago woman “Bob” and Sir Thomas Warner, emphasizing the lack of reliable documentation and the silencing of indigenous voices.

The author utilized artificial intelligence in his research, leveraging its ability to gather data from diverse sources. However, he cautioned against over-reliance on AI, citing instances where he had to correct inaccuracies. Priced between $14.99 and $15, the novel is marketed as an affordable yet valuable addition to home libraries, particularly for those in Dominica or visiting for cultural events like the Creole Festival or Independence celebrations.

Richards hopes the book will inspire the Kalinago community and foster cultural pride, advocating for Indian Warner’s recognition as a Caribbean hero. He also calls for greater unity between Afro-Dominicans and Kalinago people, particularly during national events, using the conch shell as a symbol of their shared history. The novel, while not a formal history textbook, aims to ignite further research into Dominica’s past and celebrate its rich heritage.

Dominican poet Jermainia Colaire-Didier is set to release her second poetry collection, titled “Things ‘Dominican’ and Other Poems,” on November 1, 2025. The collection, comprising 41 poems, delves into themes deeply rooted in Dominican identity while also inviting readers to reflect on broader regional and global perspectives. Known for her passionate engagement with creative writing, Colaire-Didier has consistently participated in literary events, including the “Lyrics under the Stars” series and the Poet’s Creative Workshop Series (PCWS). Her works have been featured in school literary programs and various open mic nights, showcasing her dedication to the craft. Beyond her poetic endeavors, Colaire-Didier, a retired French instructor at Dominica State College, remains active in academia and the arts as a freelance translator and private French tutor. Her commitment to language education underscores her passion for fostering cultural and linguistic connections. The official launch of her new collection will take place at the Alliance Française venue, offering attendees a chance to meet the poet and explore her latest work. The event promises to celebrate both the art of poetry and the vibrant cultural heritage of Dominica.

In a dazzling display of talent and cultural pride, ZebadiJah Maxwell from Tarreau emerged victorious as the new Miss Wob Dwiyet 2025. The prestigious pageant, held at the Massacre Indoor Sporting Facility, saw Maxwell triumph over six other contestants in a night filled with elegance and celebration. The event showcased the rich cultural heritage of Dominica, with participants competing in various categories that highlighted their poise, talent, and creativity. Maxwell not only secured the coveted title but also earned additional accolades, including Miss Photogenic and Best Performing Talent. The competition also recognized other outstanding participants, with Niah Massicot as the 1st Runner Up and Kinajè Felix as the 2nd Runner Up. Special awards such as the People’s Choice Award, Creole Poise Award, and Miss Amity were also presented, celebrating the diverse talents and contributions of the contestants. The event was supported by sponsors like the Miss OECS Pageant Committee, National Bank of Dominica, and National Cooperative Credit Union, underscoring the community’s commitment to preserving and promoting cultural traditions.