Entries Now Open for Vision 2030 Jamaica Poetry and Song Competition

Entries are now open for the Vision 2030 Jamaica ‘Love Jamaica’ Poetry and Song competition.

Localisation Officer for the Vision 2030 Jamaica Secretariat, Samantha Wilmot, told JIS News that the competition, which targets young Jamaicans, is an opportunity for persons to showcase their creative talents while celebrating the island’s rich cultural heritage.

“Participants will be required to write or compose a piece that reflects their personal connection to Jamaica. Not what ChatGPT says, but what you say… whether it be through rhythm, music or spoken word, once it is from you,” she outlined.

Ms. Wilmot explained that the competition is designed for young people, aged 15 to 29, and is divided into three categories.

“So, we have 15 to 19 years old… they will be in Category A. Category B [will comprise persons aged] 20 to 24, and Category C, ages 25 to 29. These categories are crafted to ensure that participants from all stages of young adulthood have a chance to contribute their voice to this important cultural dialogue,” she added.

Entries should be submitted to vision2030jamaica@pioj.gov.jm by Friday, March 7.

Participants are encouraged to ensure their submissions are accompanied by their full name, the name of their school (if applicable) and contact information for themselves and their parents/guardians if they are under 18 years.

Following the close of submissions, there will be a shortlisting process during which the top entries will be selected.

“Those entries will be showcased on social media, where the public will get involved. The public will be able to tell us which entry they think is the best song and poem,” Ms. Wilmot informed.

She added that the full competition process will span five to six weeks, with the winners expected to be announced within three weeks of entries closing. The final results will be based on the online vote component and scores from a judges panel.

The Love Jamaica Poetry and Song competition was launched by the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) on February 14 during the Vision 2030 ‘Love Jamaica Fest’, which was held at the AC Hotel by Marriott Kingston under the theme ‘Jamaica, My Valentine’.