GREAT BAY--Two primary school students who prepared for a spoken word competition that was eventually cancelled have been recognized with a combined prize package valued at approximately US $3,000, full payment of their school fees for the 2027/2028 academic year, and roles in an upcoming short film by the Men’s Mental Health Awareness Foundation.
Jordan Cannigeter of Prins Willem Alexander Primary School and Dareon Richardson of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Primary School received their recognition during separate school visits last week, fulfilling a commitment made by Foundation President Ahmad “Ahmiie” Gumbs after the 5th Annual Interscholastic Spoken Word Competition, originally scheduled for October 10, 2026, was postponed because of insufficient participation.
Despite the cancellation, Gumbs had promised that the two students who had invested time and effort preparing to represent their schools would still have an opportunity to perform and receive the prizes secured for the competition. Rather than allowing their preparation to go unrewarded, the Foundation brought the performances and presentations directly to their schools.
On Monday, October 19, Gumbs visited Prins Willem Alexander Primary School alongside Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport Melissa Gumbs and a representative of competition sponsor Argos Antilles. During the visit, Jordan performed his spoken word piece, "I Do Too," before fellow students and invited guests.
His performance highlighted the importance of giving young people opportunities to express their thoughts, develop confidence and communicate through creative platforms. Jordan was subsequently presented with his prizes in recognition of his preparation and willingness to represent his school.
The Foundation continued its recognition activities on Thursday, October 22, with a visit to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Primary School, where Dareon delivered two spoken word pieces, "I Do Too" and "Mr. Wise Guy vs. Mr. Crash Out."
His performances demonstrated the creativity, enthusiasm and commitment that the competition was designed to encourage. Dareon was also presented with his share of the prizes in recognition of his efforts.
Although the competition did not take place, the Foundation divided the secured prizes between both participants, with the combined package valued at approximately US $3,000. The main educational benefit is the full payment of both students' school fees for the 2027/2028 academic year, sponsored by Argos Antilles and Gemstar Realty.
The Foundation described the educational support as an investment in the students' development and future opportunities, extending the value of their participation beyond the spoken word performances themselves.
Both boys will also join previous winners of the Interscholastic Spoken Word Competition as cast members in the Foundation's upcoming short film, "I Do Too." The production, which will be filmed by Great Bay Media, is intended to promote conversations about mental health, self-expression and the importance of ensuring that young people feel heard and supported.
Reflecting on the school visits, Gumbs called for greater support for youth development initiatives, particularly those that provide meaningful opportunities without creating additional financial burdens for schools or parents.
“Too often, we hear people say that there is nothing for our youth to do. Yet, when platforms are created to give them opportunities to express themselves, develop their talents, and receive meaningful support, we must encourage their participation and ensure that these initiatives continue to exist,” Gumbs said.
He stressed that initiatives offering young people opportunities for personal development should receive stronger institutional and community support.
“Platforms that do not place financial burdens on schools or parents should be closely examined, supported, and expanded. We must be intentional about creating opportunities that allow our young people to grow, learn, and discover their potential.”
Gumbs also pointed to the experiences of Jordan and Dareon as examples of what can result when young people are encouraged to prepare, participate and pursue opportunities.
“Jordan and Dareon are examples of what dedication, preparation, and effort can bring. Although they did not get to present on the big stage as originally planned, their hard work still opened doors and earned them recognition, educational support, and an opportunity to be part of an upcoming film production.”
He said the outcome should encourage schools and the wider community to recognize the value of programs designed to develop young people's talents.
“This should send a resounding message throughout our community, particularly within our education system: opportunities like these do exist, and when we create them, our young people deserve every chance to benefit from them.”
The Foundation has announced that the 5th Annual Interscholastic Spoken Word Competition is expected to return on May 29, 2027, and is encouraging schools across St. Maarten to participate. Gumbs also encouraged both participating schools to remain involved as preparations begin for next year's event.
Through the competition and its other creative initiatives, the Foundation aims to encourage open conversations about mental health, challenge stigma and provide young people with opportunities to develop their confidence, communication skills and emotional expression.
The Foundation expressed appreciation to Argos Antilles and Gemstar Realty for sponsoring the prizes and educational support, Minister Melissa Gumbs for attending the school visit, and the participating schools for preparing their students.
It also congratulated Jordan and Dareon for demonstrating that their commitment and preparation deserved recognition, even without the originally planned competition.
The Foundation emphasized that while the event itself was postponed, its commitment to recognizing and supporting the participating students remained unchanged.
