Several Antigua and Barbuda students have earned national and regional recognition for outstanding performances in the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Foundation's 2025 Environmental Poster and Essay Competitions.
Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez presented awards to the winners during a prize-giving ceremony at the Ministry of Tourism on Thursday, praising the students for their creativity, environmental awareness, and academic achievements.
Mckenzi Edwards of New Bethel SDA School claimed first place nationally in both the Junior Environmental Poster Competition and the Junior Essay Competition, earning US$200 for each winning entry. Sophia Cao of St. Anthony's Secondary School took the national Senior Environmental Poster Competition title and received a US$200 cash prize.
Kiara Kwenga of Christ the King High School — who also serves as Antigua and Barbuda's Junior Minister of Tourism — earned regional distinction by placing second in the regional essay competition. She received a Lenovo laptop as part of her prize, while her school was awarded US$1,500.
Minister Fernandez noted that the FCCA competitions provide an important platform for young people to showcase their talents while advancing environmental conservation and sustainable tourism.
The Ministry of Tourism extended congratulations to the students, their families, teachers, and schools, and encouraged continued participation in educational initiatives that foster environmental responsibility.
