The Mindoo Phillip Park came alive on Thursday as the National School Calypso and Soca Competitions got underway, showcasing high-energy, creative, and well-executed performances from some of the country’s youngest talents.
In a standout performance, impressing both judges and audience alike, Ave Maria Girls’ Primary School’s Zizi emerged as the 2025 Schools Calypso Competition winner with her song Stories to Tell. Zizi was among 10 singers who advanced to the final round of the calypso competition, after 41 hopefuls auditioned.
Second place went to Treasure Jean of Morne Du Don Primary for Private School is School, while Ti Moto from Saltibus Primary claimed third with Mr CPEA. Micoud Primary’s Amani rounded out the top four with his performance of Life is Like a Camera.
These top performers walked away with generous prizes. Fourth place earned $500 in cash and a Ribena gift bundle courtesy of Acado. Third place came with $1 000, plus Ribena and Renwick gift packs. Second place winners received $2 000 for their school, a snack and stationery hamper from Massy Stores, a backpack with Bluetooth headphones and a USB speaker from RadioShack, and gift bundles from Acado and Renwick. First prize included $3 000 for the school, a tablet and snack hamper from Massy, a tech backpack from RadioShack, and more gifts from sponsors.
Other talented calypsonians who graced the stage included Ti Ti Girl (Babonneau Primary), Monty (Camille Henry Memorial), Ternila (Canon Laurie Anglican), Little T (Carmen Rene Memorial), Lilly (Delcer Combined), and Annie (International School).
Through their performances, the students addressed themes ranging from Saint Lucian identity and heritage to school life, resilience, and personal growth, delivered with confidence, skill and a level of refinement well beyond their years.
Minister for Youth and Sports Kenson Casimir, who attended the event, expressed his appreciation for the competition, those who contributed and its impact on youth development.
“I’m very impressed with what I’ve seen so far,” Casimir told St Lucia Times. “Obviously the teachers have invested some serious time into these children and their performances so I want to say congratulations to the teachers, the schools and also the other students who participated in the drama pieces, the dancers and, of course, the singers. For me it’s not about who wins but the experience for these young people.”
