Honoring the Voices of Our Past and Future: Winners of the First Annual Essay Competition Announced on Emancipation Day

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Today, on Emancipation Day—August 1st, 2025—we are filled with pride and gratitude as we announce the winners of the First Annual Black Food Bookstore & Culture Shop Essay Competition.

Observed across The Bahamas and the Caribbean, Emancipation Day marks the abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1834. It is a day of deep historical meaning—one that reminds us of the strength of our ancestors, the power of our heritage, and the enduring work of liberation still ahead of us. It is in that spirit that we chose this day to honor a new generation of writers who are engaging boldly with our shared history.

This year’s essay topic invited participants to explore the following:
“Explain and analyze the importance of African history in shaping national development throughout the 700 islands of The Bahamas in the 21st century.”

We were truly moved by the passion, creativity, and insight that filled each submission. The level of thought and commitment from our participants was exceptional, and selecting winners from such a talented pool was no easy task. After thoughtful review, guided by five criteria, we are proud to announce the following winners:

 First Place:

“Africa in Our Bones: The Influence of African History on National Development in the Bahamian 21st Century”
By Keia Dean
Keia’s essay offered a powerful reflection on the role of African heritage in shaping the modern Bahamian landscape.

 Second Place:

“From Slavery to Development: The Impact of African History throughout The Bahamas in the 21st Century”
By Blesseth McCartney
Blesseth delivered a clear and compelling essay that wove together past and present with care and insight.

 Third Place:

“Tings of the Past: African Legacy and Bahamian Identity”
By Dejae Woods
Dejae impressed us with a thoughtful exploration of identity and national pride.

 Honorable Mentions:

We would also like to recognize the following participants for their exceptional contributions:

• Jhanaisia Cole
• Jannifer Thurston
• Taleah Cooper

Each of these writers brought unique perspective and heart to their essays, and we are proud to honor their work.

All winning essays and author photos will be published on our website and shared via our social media channels before the end of August. Please stay connected with us on Instagram and Facebook @blackfoodshop to read these incredible pieces.

To all who entered this competition—thank you. Your voices matter. Your words carry power. And your contributions to this conversation have made this inaugural competition a meaningful and moving experience. Each participant will be contacted and provided with a certificate of participation by the end of October.

We look forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come, creating space for reflection, storytelling, and celebration of the African legacy that lives on in every corner of The Bahamas.