The Department of Culture is hosting a “Love Our BVI Culture” Poetry and Photo Competition in celebration of February as the month of Love.

Deputy Director Ms. Anne Lennard said the department is excited to roll out its first competition which will provide an opportunity to creatively challenge the minds of the Territory’s people in expressing their poetic and photography skills while fostering a sense of love and appreciation for its culture.

 “We hope that the entries from members of the public will showcase not only their creativity but also their love for our Territory.  We encourage every eligible person to participate in this event," Ms. Lennard said.

The poetry word count is ten (10) lines minimum. The rules and guidelines for the photography portion of the contest can be accessed on the Department of Culture's Facebook page, Virgin Islands Department of Culture.

Residents are invited to submit poems or pictures to the competition which is open to all residents in children and adult categories. The age groups are 13 to 17, and 18 and older.

Prizes will be awarded to First, Second and Third place winners in each category. Only one entry per person per category is allowed. Prizes will be distributed to winners on  February 28 at the office of The Department of Culture between the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Prizes for winners in each section of the children’s category are: First place $100.00, Second place $75.00 and Third place $50.00. Prizes for winners in each section of the adult’s category are: First place $200.00, Second place $150.00 and Third place $75.00. Additional prizes are sponsored by BVI Tourist Board.

For additional information on the Love Our BVI Culture” Poetry and Photo Competition, contact the department at (284) 468-4374.

The Department of Culture remains committed to developing and preserving Virgin Islands culture to generate nation building efforts and social cohesion.