Oseta Jolly Primary Students Shine in Black History Month Essay Competition

Ten talented students from Oseta Jolly Primary School showcased their writing skills and pride in their heritage when they participated in the Department of Library Services’ essay competition held in February, in celebration of Black History Month.

Princess Williams

Destiny Hall

Jakes Phanord

The competition, which aimed to highlight influential Black figures from the Turks and Caicos Islands, invited students to write about "A Successful Black Person from the Turks and Caicos Islands Whom I Admire."

The entries reflected a mix of personal admiration and community pride, with most students choosing to write about their family members, teachers, principals, and school warden. One student went further, penning an essay about a notable island and regional figure, although that entry did not place.

The contest was divided into two categories: ages 7-9 and 10-12. In the younger category, Jakes Chambers took first place with a heartfelt tribute to the school’s warden, Mrs. Mandy-Forbes-Young, while Princes Williams secured second place with an inspiring piece about her teacher, Mrs. Diana Dean. In the older category, Destiny Hall earned first place for her moving tribute to her mother, exemplifying the personal connection many students felt toward the theme.

While the students eagerly anticipated the promise of prizes and certificates, their participation in the competition offered more than just potential rewards. Engaging in such events encourages students to reflect on their heritage, develop their writing skills, and foster a sense of pride and community. Participating in these competitions helps young minds understand the importance of their history and inspires them to aspire toward success, just like the figures they admire.

As the students continue to grow and learn, their involvement in activities like this highlights the importance of celebrating cultural heritage and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.

1^st Place winner, nine-year-old Jakes Phanord reacted: “Wow, I am so proud of winning first place in the Black History Month Essay competition! I chose to write about our school's warden because I think she is a really successful Black person from the Turks and Caicos Islands, even though most people don’t see her as famous or important. I wanted to show that success isn’t just about being a doctor, lawyer, or politician — it’s also about working hard, helping others, and making a difference in your community.

“The warden might not be famous on locally, regionally, or internationally, but she is famous to over four hundred students and thirty staff members.  Ms. Mandy, as we affectionately call her, keeps our school safe and makes sure we play safely and interact respectfully with each other.  I think that’s pretty inspiring. I wanted to remind everyone that even the everyday heroes can be successful and admirable.”

Second place winner , nine year-old Princess Williams pointed out that: “I'm truly happy to have won second place in the Black History Month Essay competition! I chose to write about my teacher because she is a very successful Black person, in her own unique way, and I admire her a lot.

“Even though teachers might not always be seen as famous, they do so much to help us learn and grow. My teacher works hard every day to make sure we understand our lessons and feel happy at school. I think she is a real hero because she cares about her students and makes our school a better place.

“ I wanted to share how success isn’t just about being famous — it’s about making a positive difference in the lives of others, just like my teacher does every day.

First place winner in the second gategory, 11-year-old Destiny Hall reacted: “I am so proud to have won first place for my essay about my mother. Writing about her was special to me because she is the most important person in my life, and I see her as a true example of success.

“My mother is strong, kind, and always there for me, even when things are hard. She works so hard to take care of our family and makes sure I never give up on my dreams. To me, her love, courage, and hard work make her a real hero, and I wanted to share how she inspires me every day.

“She may not be famous to everyone, but to me, she is the most successful person because she makes our home full of love and hope.

Teacher, Mrs. Diana Dean expressed her delight at the achievements of the students.

“I am so incredibly proud of each of our students and their amazing achievements in this competition. Our school entered a total of about 12 pieces, and we are thrilled to have captured three of the six winning positions — two in the 7-9 age group and one in the 10-12 age group.

“Seeing our students succeed and share their stories with honesty and passion is truly inspiring. This win is a special milestone for our school, and it shows the talent, dedication, and hard work of our young writers. I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with such talented students, and I couldn’t be happier for their success. They have made us all proud.”

-Contributed