Winners of MVO’s 2025 Creative Writing Competition Announced
The Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO) is proud to announce the awardees of the 2025 Creative Writing Competition. This year’s theme, “The Soufrière Hills Volcano: Untold Chapters,” invited writers across the island to share true stories, personal memories, and community experiences connected to the Soufrière Hills Volcano.
The response was overwhelming, with more than 70 entries submitted from children, teenagers, and adults. Each piece reflected a unique voice and perspective, contributing to what the MVO is calling a living library of Montserrat’s ongoing volcanic story.
“The competition wasn’t just about creative writing; it was about preserving our collective memory,” said Education and Outreach Coordinator, Thiffanie Williams. “The Soufrière Hills Volcano has shaped our island in many ways, and these stories help honour that history through lived experiences.”
Entries came from all age groups, spanning from Grades 1–2 to adults. Writers shared heartfelt accounts passed down through families, personal observations of life on an active volcanic island, and reflections on community resilience. Judges were particularly moved by the honesty, cultural insight, and emotional depth displayed throughout the submissions.
2025 Awardees
Adults
• First Place: Audris Jno-Baptiste
• Second Place: Zelma White
Montserrat Community College (MCC)
• First Place: Shekinah Persaud
• Second Place: Adin Corbette
Montserrat Secondary School (MSS)
• First Place: Abrielle Hillaire
• Second Place: Amarion Monroe
Grades 5–6
• First Place: Kathyann Weekes
• Second Place (tie): Kearah Ryan & Jenice K. W. Skerritt
Grades 3–4
• First Place: Fijonye Meade Ryan
• Second Place: Nickyvah Hickson
Grades 1–2
• First Place: Khairi Daway
• Second Place (tie): Rayden Williams & Ceyonja Brown
The MVO extends heartfelt congratulations to all awardees and sincere gratitude to each participant, teacher, and parent who supported this year’s competition.
The Creative Writing Competition forms part of the MVO’s ongoing outreach efforts to encourage community engagement, preserve local heritage, and support youth development through literacy and creative expression.
For more information on upcoming opportunities, activities, and educational programmes, follow the MVO on social media or contact the Outreach Team at 495-2029.
