MLK Essay Contest Winners Declared
Winners in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest
Ambassador Hardt Announces Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest Winners
Ambassador Hardt hosted a ceremony to recognize the winners of the U.S. Embassy’s inaugural Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest on January 17, at his residence. The four top student participants, along with their families and school representatives, gathered to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for his contributions as a leader of the civil rights movement and for his dedication to the ideals of equality, justice, and peace. Through these essays, the students focused on what they, and their peers, can do contribute to a “revolution of values” that reflects unconditional love for all people.
Ambassador Hardt discussed how Americans celebrate a national holiday in honor of Dr. King every year on the third Monday of January. He said the essays carried a common theme: a recognition that changing the world for the better and overcoming hatred and division begins with each of us—with what we do and how we act toward others.
At the end of his remarks, Ambassador Hardt announced the contest winners and asked the students to read excerpts from their essays. Manouska Vyfhuis from Mackenzie High School received a Fourth place prize for her essay, “Martin Luther King Jr.: 1929-1968.” She wrote about the work of Dr. King and the impact he had on the world.
Sondrea Low from Bishops’ High received Third Place for her essay, “Promoting Strength and Unity in our Country.” She states that by joining clubs and organizations, youth can work together toward common goals. She says Guyana’s motto “One People, One Nation, One Destiny,” reflects Dr. King’s teachings of peace and unity.
Kenesha Adams from Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary received Second Place for her essay, “How Can Young People Contribute to the Advancement of Dr. King’s Revolution of Values.” Adams writes that education, religious tolerance, and community participation are vital to achieving peace. She also adds that by studying Guyana’s history, “we are able to better understand the different groups and develop an attitude of acceptance of all people.”
The First Place winner, Sheena Chin from President’s College, read her full essay aloud, “Peace and Love: The Key to Our Own Paradise on Earth.” Chin states that “to distribute peace not only within Guyana, but the world as a whole, young people, as well as others, must first begin among and within themselves.” She adds that people should learn about different cultures to appreciate others.
The Embassy presented to each of the winners a monetary award for the purchase of books and school supplies. Winners also received books about Dr. King, including his autobiography, an audiobook set of famous speeches and sermons, an official biography, and a photobook of his life. They were also given a certificate of participation signed by the Ambassador.