Latest update April 3rd, 2026 12:35 AM
Children’s Mash Competition: Region Six Clinches First Place in 11–13 Calypso
(Kaieteur News) – Tatianna Benn of Tutorial Academy Secondary School (TASS) in New Amsterdam, Berbice, stole the spotlight on Thursday, winning first place in the 11–13 Calypso category of the Children’s Mashramani Competition at the National Cultural Centre. The event was hosted by the Ministry of Education.
The 12-year-old, making her national debut, performed a vibrant and interactive calypso titled “I Love My Country”. From the moment she stepped on stage, Benn captivated the audience with her confident stage presence, rhythmic flow, and spirited delivery, exiting to resounding cheers.
Tatianna Benn, first place winner of the 11-13 Calypso Competition.
“I was extremely overjoyed and a bit emotional. I was confident that I was going to win, but hearing my name called was an experience I will never forget. Myself and my teacher worked very hard to get here, and seeing the hard work pay off was very satisfying,” Benn told Kaieteur News.
Her winning piece was crafted by Mr. Terrence Giddings, a Social Studies teacher at TASS known for nurturing calypsonians to national success. Giddings explained that the song reflects a message of patriotism, designed to highlight the positive aspects of Guyana.
“I always try to use my craft to teach,” Giddings said. “A lot of people have been trying to run down Guyana…so I decided when writing this track to highlight some of the good things, the positive things of Guyana.”
Second place went to Hannan Ramsaroop of Queen’s College, Georgetown, with “Little Builders, Big Tomorrow”, while Stacy Mentis of Abram Zuil Secondary in Region Two claimed third place with “Our Country, Our Pride.”
Minister of Education Sonia Parag, addressing the young performers, encouraged them to use their talents to their fullest potential. She highlighted government initiatives in the “Orange Economy” aimed at supporting the country’s creative industry and assured students that such platforms provide meaningful opportunities to develop their skills.
“When you come out here, it’s not just because you are representing a school, but also because you are showcasing what you are capable of, your creative side, and your talent,” the minister said. “Once your talent brings out positivity and carries a positive message, keep going with it and take the opportunities that the government puts forward.”
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- Calypso, children, Children’s Mashramani Competition, Mash, Tatianna Benn, Tutorial Academy Secondary School
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