Several Antigua and Barbuda students have been recognized for outstanding performances in the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Foundation’s 2025 Environmental Poster and Essay Competitions.

During a prize-giving ceremony held at the Ministry of Tourism on Thursday, Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez presented awards to the winners and praised their creativity, environmental awareness, and academic achievements.

Mckenzi Edwards of New Bethel SDA School captured 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 won the national Senior Environmental Poster Competition and received a US$200 cash prize.

Meanwhile, Kiara Kwenga of Christ the King High School and Antigua and Barbuda’s Junior Minister of Tourism earned regional recognition by placing second in the regional essay competition. She received a Lenovo laptop, while her school was awarded US$1,500.

Fernandez said the FCCA competitions provide an important platform for young people to showcase their talents while promoting environmental conservation and sustainable tourism.

The Ministry of Tourism congratulated the students, their families, teachers, and schools for their achievements and encouraged continued participation in educational initiatives that foster environmental responsibility.