Young people from across the Diocese of Gloucester were recognised for their creativity and insight at the first Black History Month art and poetry competition, with prizes presented by the Bishop of Gloucester.
The competition invited children and young people age seven to 18 to explore the lives, achievements and contributions of Black and Brown people who have made a difference locally, nationally and internationally.
Entries included poetry and artwork reflecting on community leaders, historical figures and personal inspirations.
In the seven to eleven category, Chimchetaram won with an illustrated acrostic poem celebrating Carol Francis whose impressive achievements include being the first Black Sheriff and Deputy Mayor of Gloucester City. Her entry reflected on Carol’s commitment to serving the community and the recognition she has received for her work. Carol attended the awards ceremony.
The winner of the 12 to 15 category was Eliana, whose powerful poem explored the life and leadership of former US President Barack Obama. Judges described it as a “truly inspiring and emotional poem” and praised the way its simple structure developed into “an amazing journey that encapsulates both the man and his achievements” while acknowledging the sacrifices and challenges of leadership.
In the 16-18 category, Adedamola was awarded first prize for The Civic Centre, a mixed-media artwork depicting the Civic Centre in Lagos, Nigeria. Combining layered ink, watercolour and collage, the piece impressed judges with its depth, atmosphere and use of colour.
Judges said, “An amazing piece of art, with muted but powerful colours and depth which brings intrigue.”
The competition formed part of the Diocese of Gloucester’s programme marking Black History Month and sought to encourage young people to learn more about people whose lives, achievements and experiences continue to shape communities and inspire future generations.
Bishop Rachel said, “This was such a joyful evening as we celebrated the creativity of these young people whose inspiring poetry and art honoured the lives of black and brown people whose lives have impacted communities and our world in so many different and amazing ways.
See the competition winners below.
Learn more about the Diocese of Gloucester’s Racial Justice Advisory Group →
Winner of the 7-11 category, Chimchetaram
Carol Francis, a wonderful woman,
Always persevering, since 1974
Remember her, born in June 1959
Owning the black achievers award, her medal she wore.
Loving her job as the deputy mayor,
FM radio broadcaster,
Ready to help whenever she can,
Also, the “great women list” master.
Never underestimate her community recognition,
Carol has won many awards.
In fact, she has an honorary fellowship,
She has a “University of Gloucestershire” reward.
Winner of the 12 to 15 age category, Eliana
A Man Who Makes the World Know that Success Will Not Come Easy
B – Bridged the gap between the presidency and modern culture.
Walked where history had once drawn lines,
Connected generations with empathy and hope.
Taught that leadership is not an occupation,
But it is lives that inspire,
And connections that bridges divide.
A – Ambitious and Confident.
Dared to dream larger than the limitations,
Even when the road ahead was unclear.
Felt that success will never come easy,
But it is achieved with every step forward,
With every heartache and tear.
R – Retains a degree of privacy.
Behind the scenes of the applause.
A – A mere human being with a family.
Valued the little things in life,
Outside from what the eyes could see,
Teaching that true levels of successes,
Are never measured by fame nor victories.
Felt that differences have the power to drive us apart,
So often misunderstandings cloud our judgment.
Found harmony in listening rather than speaking,
With patient heart sought for compromises,
Knowing well that progress is only achieved when,
People chose to understand rather than accuse.
C – Choose to show responsibility with conscious awareness.
Understanding the impacts every move had created,
Taught us that respect is earned not given,
By those who are respectful of others,
Their power came from within; wealth and position never attracted him.
K – Known for his power and control in times of crises.
At times when doubt and uncertainties plagued him,
He stood firm with humility and confidence,
For in times of discouraging trials,
True strengths lay in determination, not in brute force,
And the power to rise above life’s challenges without losing heart.
O – One of the powerful communicators of modern presidents.
Spoke of hope across oceans, crossing borders and continents,Reaching far and near, bringing smiles back on tear-stained cheeks,
They knew change was possible, ordinary people could achieve the extraordinary,
And hope will always prevail with action.
B – Broad-minded and brave.
Marched his way into history books with flying colors,
History will forever remember the black president,
His victories were not achieved without struggles,
For he opened doors not just for himself but for others as well.
A – Adaptable and articulate.
Through criticisms uncertainties and downfalls,
He mastered the art of leadership,
Taught that wise leaders do not claim to know it all,
As there is always something new to learn,And never stop searching just because the world demands it.
M – Motivated and Measured.
His journey was not a downhill ride,
Neither did it come without its sacrifices,
Every bit of achievements were not handed to him on a silver platter,
But were hard-earned and conquered with unwavering faith,
Kept pushing forward towards a seemingly unreachable goal.
A – Aspiring to achieve the best not for himself but for posterity.
Became a symbol of hope to many who believed,
That success knew no new beginnings,
And there was no better time to start than now,
Barack Obama your journey leaves us a lasting legacy,
Success is neither a breakfast cereals nor candy,But it is earned with every endeavor.
With determination and unwavering faith and fearlessness,
Triumph is only achieved in the presence of trials,
For it came after countless failures and rejections.
The mountaintop might be far and the path sloppy and stony,
But those who reach will smile knowing they tried their very best,
A dream may last a day, and success comes to those who strive.
The winner of the 16 to 18 category, Adedamola with his drawing of “The Civic Centre.”
The winning entries will soon be displayed in an exhibition at St Mary de Crypt in Gloucester, details to follow.
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