Zarah Siddiqi Shines in WeSpeak Teen Video Competition
Suzanne Khan, Executive Director, WeSpeak, Zarah Siddiqi, 2nd place, Keante Simmons, 1st place, Sarah Dunstan, Teen Chair, WeSpeak, Kirsten Beasley, Head of Office, Bermuda, WTW.
October 11, 2024 — The WeSpeak Teen Video Competition, 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 the outstanding young women of Bermuda have once again demonstrated their remarkable talent and vision. The competition theme, inspired by UN’s International Day of the Girl Child 2024, invited girls aged 14-18 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 a number of local teens.
“Congratulations to our three prize winners: Keante Simmons, who took home the grand prize of $1,000, Zarah Siddiqi, who earned the second-place award of $500, and Sophie Kulkarni, who won the third-place prize of $300. Each of these young women presented a compelling vision of the future, characterised by aspirations of inclusivity, equity, and opportunities for young women and girls.”
Sarah Dunstan, Actuarial Senior 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 various high schools on the island. Their vision of the future shines with possibility and promise, filled with ideas for a world that is more inclusive, equitable, and kind. It is 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 submissions, “As a supporter of WeSpeak, WTW is honoured to once again be the sponsor of the Teen Video Competition. Each entry presented a uniquely compelling perspective on this year’s topic: ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future.’ At the end of the judges’ discussion, I found myself so inspired by how the young women of Bermuda spoke with such confidence and persuasion. Congratulations to all the girls, in particular our 3 prize winners: Keante, Zarah, and Sophie!”
The spokesperson said, “WeSpeak extends its gratitude to all the participants for their efforts and enthusiasm, and to WTW for its continued support in amplifying the voices of young women. The competition not only highlighted the power of youth to envision a better tomorrow but also provided a platform for young leaders to express their ideas for driving sustainable change.
“As the competition concludes, WeSpeak remains committed to its mission of empowering girls to use their voices, develop leadership skills, and advocate for a brighter future.”
Originally published on Bernews.com