Grooming National School-Aged Top Spellers in various districts to compete, in hopes of winning the coveted title of top speller, the Bahamas National Spelling Bee (BNSB) held its 18th Annual Bahamas National Spelling Bee Final Competition on March 22 at in the Crown Ballroom at the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island.

Minister of Education, Jerome Fitzgerald, said that the dedication and commitment displayed has propelled the participants to have the opportunity to be chosen to represent The Bahamas at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington D.C.

Winner Charles Hamilton, Jr., declared: “I was very nervous, with all the people there, how I was severely outnumbered by girls, I didn’t think or have enough faith within myself to think that I could actually come first or come out victorious. I emerged First Place and I’m so happy.”

Young Mr. Hamilton said that he’s going to Washington, D.C. and what pushed him along was his ‘wonderful coach,’ Dr. Ruth Brown, who, he said, always wanted to see Washington, D.C. again. Charles attends St. Anne’s School and was representing the BAISS District.

Second Prize winner was Jasmine Adamson of Stephen Dillet Primary School.

Third Prize winner was Prachi Kondapuran of Queen’s College, who was the winner last year.

Education Minister Fitzgerald commended the organizers from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and their valuable sponsors who collaborated to ensure the annual event was memorable for both the participants and attendees.

He said preparation for a Spelling Bee Competition is challenging, but very rewarding in the end, adding that those who participate receive repayment for their efforts through an enhanced vocabulary, increased skills in composition and problem solving, and advanced delivery in elocution and public speaking.

“Additionally, Spelling Bee competitors develop positive character traits such as determination, serenity, and strength of will, which are beneficial during the competition and in life,” said Minister Fitzgerald.

The event was co-sponsored by the NASSAU GUARDIAN and Bahamas Electricity Corporation.