Seniors tested their spelling skills on Sunday afternoon at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College as part of a month of activities held in their honour.
When the smoke cleared, former permanent secretary Sheila Brathwaite took top honours at the 2025 Adult Spell-Off: Seniors Edition. Sylvia George came in second, Carren Mactavious third.
The event was hosted by the Social Development Department in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Social Development and VI Adult Spell Off, according to government.
Other contestants included Jennifer Bertie, Charles Wheatley, Mercedes Samuel and Eugenie Donovan.
The spell-off was part of Senior Citizens Month, which will wrap up on Saturday evening with a ball at PRIME Restaurant in Road Town.
‘No age limit’
On Sunday, HSD Minister Vincent Wheatley commended the participants and stressed the importance of lifelong learning.
“This event is a powerful reminder that learning and growth have no age limit,” he said. “I salute all of our senior competitors for their courage, brilliance and inspiration. They have set an example for younger generations and reaffirmed the value of continued education and engagement.”
Permanent Secretary Tasha Bertie said the ministry was proud to support the contest.
“It is truly heartwarming to see them take centre stage and remind us all of the power of perseverance, knowledge and community spirit,” she said.
Acting Chief Social Development Officer Shirma George praised the event and the community’s support for it.
“This spell-off is not only about spelling words, but about creating connections, celebrating wisdom, and fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment among our seniors,” she said. “We thank all participants and supporters who made this event so memorable.”
Other activities
The month of activities kicked off with an opening ceremony on May 2.
It also included a Seniors’ Sports Day on May 21 at the Multi-purpose Sports Complex, a Senior Prom on Saturday on Virgin Gorda, and a social on Tuesday on Jost Van Dyke.
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