Winners named in Sentinel Times' 1st Journofest Short Story Writing Contest

By Nimfa Estrellado Sentinel Times' 1st Journofest Short Story Writing Contest Pubmat LUCENA CITY, Quezon - A competition aimed at p...

By Nimfa Estrellado

Sentinel Times' 1st Journofest Short Story Writing Contest Pubmat

LUCENA CITY, Quezon - A competition aimed at promoting and recognizing talented writers in the community, the Sentinel Times' 1st Journofest Short Story Writing Contest, has been won by Glorious Zahara Exylin Alesna, 14, an aspiring writer from Dagupan City, Pangasinan. Alesna's captivating storytelling and unique narrative style impressed the judges, making her the deserving winner of this prestigious contest.

Alesna's short story, "Tomorrow," recounts how a young man's outlook changes after a super typhoon ravages his town, claiming the lives of several acquaintances. The story beautifully explores themes of resilience, hope, and the power of human connection in the face of tragedy. Alesna's vivid descriptions and heartfelt portrayal of the protagonist's emotional journey left a lasting impact on the judges and readers alike.



'A Painter's Wedding Gift' by 21-year-old Mark Russell Dancis Caranzo of Quezon City, Manila, came in second. It is a captivating story that explores the complexities of love and sacrifice. Caranzo's writing's capacity to evoke strong emotions and vivid imagery impressed the judges.

Third place goes to John Albert Silva, 24, of Lipa City, Batangas, for 'BIYAHE'. As the protagonist embarks on a soul-searching adventure, John Albert Silva takes readers on a transformative journey.

The contest received an overwhelming response from aspiring writers of all ages and backgrounds, making the selection process a challenging task for the judges. The winners were chosen based on their creativity, storytelling skills, and ability to engage readers with their unique narratives. This contest not only provided a platform for emerging writers to showcase their talent but also encouraged a love for literature and storytelling within the community.

The call was opened in December of last year and closed in January, giving participants ample time to craft their submissions. The wide range of genres and themes explored in the entries showcased the diverse perspectives and imaginations of aspiring writers, making it a truly enriching experience for both the contestants and the judges.

The competition was part of the Sentinel Times' 8th-anniversary celebrations, which aimed to foster a sense of creativity and inclusivity among its readership. It's also worth noting that the contest attracted writers of all ages, from young students to seasoned professionals, further highlighting the newspaper's commitment to nurturing talent and providing a platform for aspiring authors.

In all, 10 entries were received from aspiring writers across the country, showcasing the diverse range of talent in the writing community. The high caliber of the submissions impressed the judges, making it challenging to choose the winner. The success of this contest highlights the importance of providing platforms for aspiring writers to showcase their skills and gain recognition for their craft.

The awards would be given out at the award event in March, where the winner would be announced and celebrated for their exceptional writing abilities. This event not only serves as a platform for recognition but also as an opportunity for aspiring writers to network with industry professionals and gain valuable insights into the world of writing.