The spirit of reflection and creativity was on full display at the Annual Essay Competition hosted by the Rotary Club of Chaguanas, as eight primary schools came together to explore one powerful question: how can kindness shape mental health within the school environment?
Centered on the theme, “How can I highlight the impact of kindness, gratitude, and teamwork in fostering positive mental health within my school environment,” this year’s competition invited students to look inward and share their perspectives with honesty and heart. The result was a collection of essays filled with insight, empathy, and a depth of understanding far beyond their years.
Through their words, the students showed that kindness is not just a simple act—it is a force that builds connection, eases burdens, and creates safe spaces where everyone feels valued. Gratitude and teamwork emerged as equally powerful, weaving together a vision of schools where support, respect, and unity thrive.
We proudly celebrate the outstanding winners who captured the essence of the theme:
First Place – Kayleigh Cummings, Macaulay Government Primary School
Second Place – Destiny Medford, Orange Valley Government Primary School
Third Place – Zoe Grace Ariel Macoon, Chaguanas Government Primary School
Each student was awarded a trophy and a cash prize, with their schools also receiving financial support—an investment in nurturing both academic excellence and emotional well-being.
Special thanks are extended to President Kavita and PAG Rahin for their guidance and unwavering support in bringing this initiative to life, and to Sandra Seegolam, Chair of Essay Writing, for her dedication to empowering young voices.
Moments like these are a reminder of why service matters. When we listen to our youth and invest in their ideas, we help cultivate communities rooted in compassion, resilience, and hope.
