The 2024 DBS Radio National Reading Competition, sponsored by Dragon Windows, saw Cataleya Poponne from Roseau Primary School emerge as the winner, scoring 711 points. She competed against nine other participants from various primary schools across Dominica to secure the title. The final competition was held at the Emerald Movies in Roseau.
Poponne expressed her excitement and gratitude, acknowledging the significant role her teachers and parents played in her success. She stated, “My teachers and my parents helped me, they motivated me and it helped to build my spirit and I knew that I would accomplish my dreams.” She also emphasized her love for reading and her desire to continue participating in similar competitions.
Second place was awarded to Zaida Capitolin from St. Martin Primary School, who scored 703 points. Kriston Blaize from Pioneer Preparatory School came in third with 665 points, and Sakeri-Leontyne Astaphan from Convent Preparatory School placed fourth with 663 points. Other participants included Nayaeal Paul from Roosevelt Douglas Primary School, Jeffana Joseph from San Sauveur Primary School, Jeran Lawrence from Christian Union Primary School, Abdiel Andrew from Paix Bouche Primary School, Janae Robinson from Berean Christian Academy, and Joshua Nelson from Lighthouse Christian Academy.
DBS Radio Manager Cecil Joseph described the competition as challenging and praised the efforts of all participants. He announced plans to incorporate calypso into next year’s competition to further promote literary appreciation. “Calypso is a means of securing literature and next year it will be reading and calypsos,” Joseph explained. This initiative aims to enhance children’s understanding and appreciation of calypso’s literary value.
The competition honors the legacy of the late Felix Henderson, a notable broadcaster and Creole language advocate, whose vision was to encourage reading among Dominican children. The event is seen as an important platform for fostering a love for reading and improving literacy skills among young students in Dominica
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