Africa-Press – Gambia. As part of efforts to promote literary creativity and encourage emerging writers, 69 Entertainment on Friday launched the Prof. Cherno Omar Barry Storytelling Competition, an initiative aimed at nurturing talent, preserving oral traditions, and fostering education through storytelling.
Speaking at the official launch and first audition held in the National Centre For Arts And Culture (NCAC) RDD Annex in Fajara, Hassoum Ceesay, Director General of the National Centre for Arts and Culture (NCAC), congratulated 69 Entertainment for initiating the first edition of the competition. He also welcomed the panel of judges who will work with the organizers throughout the event.
“This competition will enable writers to explore different areas of creative writing and express new ideas,” he said, describing it as a valuable platform that will inspire creativity and literary growth.
DG Ceesay also commended Prof. Cherno Omar Barry, President of the Writers Association of The Gambia, for accepting to be the icon and inspiration behind the competition.
In his remarks, Prof. Cherno Omar Barry, after whom the competition is named, commended the participants for their courage in joining the inaugural edition.
“Being the first is never easy, but you are paving the way for others to follow,” he said.
He emphasized that storytelling defines cultural identity and heritage, noting that it reflects the traditions and values that bind communities together. Recalling his childhood experiences, he said storytelling was an essential part of family and community life.
“Storytelling is interactive; it engages people and connects communities,” he explained. “Sometimes it involves songs or choruses, creating a shared experience that strengthens social bonds.”
Franklin Chika Adim, Event Manager of 69 Entertainment, described the competition as a cultural and literary event dedicated to celebrating creativity and empowering young storytellers.
“The event aims to promote storytelling as a tool for cultural preservation and education, provide a platform for emerging writers to showcase their talent, and foster community unity through shared narratives,” he said.
He revealed that the competition, which began on October 3rd, will run until October 31st, 2025, featuring participants from schools and the wider creative industry.
One of the participants, Magnus, a film producer, writer, and director, said he joined the competition because of his passion for impactful storytelling.
He expressed plans to collaborate with Prof. Barry and other participants on a book project inspired by the competition. “It would be on record that the book emerged from this storytelling initiative,” he noted, while calling for wider publicity in future editions to attract more participants.
Magnus commended 69 Entertainment for creating a platform that promotes storytelling as a vital part of Gambian culture and national development.
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