“The draw today determines your position, but it does not determine your potential.”
The words of Minister of Education Dr. Michael Dowlath, as he offered encouragement to the finalists of the Schools’ Junior Soca Competition.
On Monday, the 11 finalists drew for places to compete in the final round of the competition.
Minister Dowlath congratulated the students and reminded them that competitions like the Junior Soca Monarch go beyond entertainment.
“It is a deliberate investment in culture, education, and character building through music and performance developing our students’ confidence, teamwork, discipline, and respect. Soft skills that will serve them long after the stage lights fade. In nurturing artistic expression, we are nurturing well-rounded citizens who appreciate culture, not as a spectacle, but as a living classroom.”
Minister Dowlath is also encouraging families, schools, and communities to render their full support to the students.
“When we show up for young people, we send a powerful message that their voices and their artistry matter.”
The finals of the Schools’ Junior Soca Competition will be held on February 10th at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts (SAPA).
Defending champions Jalisa Lazarus and Zachary Ransome, along with Zayden Darius, Kamani Hector-Kalloo, and Asia Marie Williams, are among the finalists.