Lance Corporal Vanessa Parris with awards from the International Society of Poets

Lance Corporal Vanessa Parris participated in a contest organised by the International Society of Poets (ISP) held in Washington D.C. earlier this year. She was recently notified that her literary work earned her a bronze medal and the label "Poet of Merit." Parris also received an International Poet of Merit Silver Award Bowl, a one year membership and a one year subscription to the ISP’s quarterly magazine "The Poet’s Corner."

Minister of Information, Culture, Youth and Sport Hon. Jacinth Henry-Martin said it was extremely heartening to witness the emergence of the Federation’s young people as they continue to achieve outstanding rankings in international competitions.

"Not only have we made our mark in the world of athletics and academics but we are launching out and gaining recognition elsewhere; this time in the field of poetry," she said. "This is especially meaningful to me, having published a book of poetry myself."

The minister noted that most persons who write poetry are reluctant to share it with others for various reasons. She added that when a person exposes their "intimacy with words" it is a pleasure to have his/her works recognised as outstanding.

Minister Henry-Martin congratulated Lance Corporal Parris on her achievement and called on other nationals to take advantage of opportunities to express themselves or show their works in their respective field of interest.