WeSpeak announces video contest winners

The WeSpeak Teen Video Contest, themed “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” awarded Keante Simmons first place, with Zarah Siddiqi and Sophie Kulkarni in second and third.

A spokesperson said: “The WeSpeak Teen Video Competition has concluded and Bermuda’s remarkable young women have once again demonstrated their remarkable talent and vision. The competition’s theme, inspired by the UN’s International Day of the Girl 2024, invited girls aged 14 to 18 to submit videos on this year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future”, culminating in a showcase of creativity, leadership and hope for a better world from several local teenagers.

“Congratulations to our three winners: Keante Simmons, who took home the grand prize of $1,000, Zarah Siddiqi, who won the second-place prize of $500, and Sophie Kulkarni, who won the third-place prize of U.S. $300. Each of these young women presented a compelling vision of the future, characterized by aspirations for inclusion, equity and opportunity for young women and girls.”

Suzanne Khan, Executive Director, WeSpeak, Zarah Siddiqi, 2nd place, Keante Simmons, 1st place, Sarah Dunstan, Teen President, WeSpeak, Kirsten Beasley, Bureau Chief, Bermuda, WTW.

WeSpeak Video Contest Winners, Bermuda, October 2024

Sarah Dunstan, Senior Actuarial Project Manager at Athene and WeSpeak Teen Chair, expressed her admiration for the participants: “I am truly inspired by the videos submitted by the incredible teens from the island’s various high schools. His vision of the future shines with possibility and promise, full of ideas for a world that is more inclusive, equitable and kind. It’s so exciting to see their passion come to life in these entries. With young leaders like them, the future is in great hands.”

The competition, sponsored by WTW, encouraged participants to share their perspectives on how girls’ voices can drive meaningful change. Emi Giles, senior associate at WTW and one of the judges, shared her thoughts on the entries: “As a supporter of WeSpeak, WTW is honored to once again be a sponsor of the Teen Video Competition. Each entry presented a unique and compelling perspective on this year’s theme: ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future’. At the end of the judges’ discussion, I was very inspired by the way the young Bermudian women spoke with such confidence and persuasiveness. Congratulations to all the girls, in particular to our 3 winners: Keante, Zarah and Sophie!”

The spokesperson said: “WeSpeak extends its gratitude to all participants for their efforts and enthusiasm, and to WTW for its continued support in amplifying young women’s voices. The contest not only highlighted the power of young people to envision a better tomorrow, but also provided a platform for young leaders to express their ideas to drive sustainable change.

“At the end of the competition, WeSpeak remains committed to its mission of empowering girls to use their voices, develop leadership skills and advocate for a better future.”