Young Spellers Shine at Inaugural Rotaract Spelling Bee in Providenciales
Words became a bridge to knowledge, confidence and community service as nine young students took centre stage at the inaugural Rotaract Spelling Bee, hosted by the Rotaract Club of Providenciales on Friday, October 9, 2026, at The Salvation Army.
Bringing together Grade 5 and 6 students from five primary schools across Providenciales, the event transformed an evening of friendly competition into a celebration of learning, perseverance and the promise of young minds.
Inspired by Rotary International’s September area of focus, Basic Education and Literacy, the initiative was designed to do more than test students’ spelling abilities. It also introduced participants to Rotary, the Rotary Foundation and the importance of giving back to their communities.
Through carefully selected words reflecting Rotary’s values, humanitarian efforts and commitment to service, students were challenged to expand their vocabularies while discovering how education and community service can work hand in hand to create meaningful change.
Nine Students, One Stage and a Shared Love of Learning
Representing five primary schools, the nine participants brought their preparation, determination and enthusiasm to the competition.
They were Ahzaya Forbes and Keandre Maragh of Shining Stars Preparatory School; John Elimus and Emma Khan of Provo Christian Primary School; Jeremiah Innocent and Romeo Baranco of Mills Institute; Adonarim Pierre and Kiara Clarke of Ianthe Pratt Primary School; and Venroy Brown of Richmond Hill.
As the rounds progressed, each student faced increasingly challenging words, demonstrating confidence and composure under pressure. Their performances reflected the academic potential of young learners across Providenciales and reminded everyone in attendance of the importance of creating opportunities for children to grow, learn and excel.
The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and encouragement, as parents, teachers, supporters and community members cheered on the young spellers. Every round offered another opportunity for the students to challenge themselves, and every effort served as a reminder that success begins with the courage to participate.
Celebrating Excellence and Determination
After an impressive display of spelling ability, focus and perseverance, three students emerged as the competition’s top performers.
Taking first place was Venroy Brown of Richmond Hill, who earned a round-trip ticket to Miami, along with a trophy and medal.
Keandre Maragh of Shining Stars Preparatory School secured second place, receiving a day pass to Beaches Turks and Caicos, a trophy and medal.
Rounding out the top three was Jeremiah Innocent of Mills Institute, who claimed third place and received a tablet, trophy and medal.
While the winners enjoyed well-deserved recognition for their achievements, the evening’s success extended beyond the final standings. All nine students demonstrated courage, preparation and a willingness to embrace a challenge, making each participant an important part of the event’s inaugural success.
More Than a Spelling Competition
For Rotaract Club of Providenciales President Nideka Misick, the event represented an opportunity to invest in young people while strengthening the connection between education and service.
“The Rotaract Spelling Bee was about more than just spelling words correctly. We wanted to bring students together, challenge them academically and introduce them to the values of Rotary, the work of the Rotary Foundation and the importance of giving back. Seeing their excitement, confidence and enthusiasm for learning was truly rewarding. It was also wonderful to see our community come together for an evening centered on education,” Misick shared.
Emphasizing the lasting impact that literacy can have on a child’s future, she added, “Literacy opens doors to so many opportunities, and I hope this experience encourages our students to continue learning, believe in themselves and understand that even at a young age, they can make a difference.”
Misick also highlighted the collective effort behind the event, expressing heartfelt appreciation to the Club’s Board of Directors, members, sponsors and everyone who contributed their time, resources and support.
“I also want to express my heartfelt appreciation to our Board of Directors, Club members, sponsors and everyone who helped make this event possible. No contribution was too small, and every effort made a difference. We could not have done this without the people who gave their time, resources and support. I am truly grateful to everyone who helped turn this idea into a reality,” she said.
A Community Effort Behind Every Word
The successful staging of the inaugural Spelling Bee was made possible through the generosity and dedication of individuals and organizations who shared the Club’s vision for youth development and education.
The Rotaract Club of Providenciales extends special appreciation to competition judges Kadean Cunningham, Claudine Ewing and Tanya Carter for sharing their time and expertise. The Club also recognizes Zoya Faessler, who served as Lead Judge and Pronouncer, helping to guide the competition, and Brandi Greene, whose role as Timekeeper supported the smooth progression of the event.
Sincere gratitude is extended to the initiative’s sponsors and community partners: Provo Travel, Beaches Turks and Caicos, Youth Help Foundation, Open Thought Communication, Genesis Next Media, Taste Buds, Island Printing, Business Solutions, CIBC and NW Hamilton Insurance.
The Club also thanks The Salvation Army for providing the venue and acknowledges the participating schools, teachers, parents and guardians whose encouragement helped make the experience possible for the students.
Their collective support demonstrated what can be achieved when a community comes together around a shared commitment to education and youth empowerment.
Building a Legacy of Literacy and Service
As the inaugural Rotaract Spelling Bee draws to a close, its impact reaches beyond the words spelled and the prizes awarded. It leaves behind a powerful message about the importance of nurturing young talent, creating opportunities for academic growth and introducing children to the values of leadership, service and community responsibility.
The Rotaract Club of Providenciales congratulates all nine participants for their courage, preparation and determination, recognizing that every student helped make this first competition a meaningful milestone.
Looking ahead, the Club hopes to establish the Spelling Bee as an annual tradition, continuing to promote literacy, encourage academic excellence and inspire young people to recognize their potential to make a positive difference in their communities.
Because when young people are given the opportunity to learn, the confidence to compete and the encouragement to serve, the possibilities for their future are as limitless as the words they have yet to discover.
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