Ministry of Education, Sports and Creative Industries has announced major success for two Antiguan students. Both students earned top placements in a regional poetry competition.

Shakeir Thomas of Antigua Grammar School won the Secondary School category. Meanwhile, Denae T. L. Bontiff of St Anthony’s Secondary placed runner-up in the same category.

The awards came from Macmillan Education’s Language Tree: New Branches Poetry Competition. The competition attracted entries from across the Caribbean.

The contest opened on June 12, 2025. It officially closed on September 12, 2025. During this period, students and teachers submitted original poems.

Additionally, Mrs. Nari Haywood-Belle of the Language Arts Unit entered the Teachers category. Her poem also received recognition.

All three poems appear in a special edition poetry book. Macmillan Education produced the publication. It features winning and commendable entries from the competition.

The competition focused on six themes. These themes included the weather, nature, the sea, food, an animal, and a festival. Entrants selected one theme for their work.

Shakeir Thomas wrote his winning poem on the theme of nature. His entry impressed judges in the secondary school category.

Meanwhile, Denae Bontiff chose the theme of food. Her poem earned the runner-up position.

Similarly, Mrs. Haywood-Belle also wrote on the theme of food. Her entry was selected for inclusion in the publication.

The Ministry said the results highlight creative talent among students and educators. Officials noted the importance of literary arts in education.

Furthermore, the Ministry praised the regional reach of the competition. Entries came from multiple Caribbean territories.

Officials also acknowledged Macmillan Education’s role. The company sponsored and organized the competition.

The Ministry congratulated both students for their achievements. It also commended Mrs. Haywood-Belle for her contribution.

According to the Ministry, the recognition reflects strong language arts instruction. It also showcases student creativity at the secondary level.

The Ministry encouraged continued participation in regional competitions. Officials said such platforms help develop literary skills.

Overall, the achievement places Antigua and Barbuda in the regional spotlight. The Ministry expressed pride in the winners.

The special edition poetry book is now available through Macmillan Education. It includes poems from across the Caribbean.

For now, the Ministry continues to support creative expression. Officials said student achievement remains a priority.

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