The Department of Culture hosted the final event of the 2025 Writer-in-Residence Programme on 8 March at the Bermuda National Gallery. The public reading marked the conclusion of the programme, providing participants with an opportunity to share their work with an audience.

Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, the Hon. Owen Darrell, JP, MP, praised the event, stating, “This reading event showcased the incredible literary talent fostered through the Writer-in-Residence Programme. Ms. Imoja’s dedication and expertise have provided a platform for Bermudian writers to develop their craft, and we are grateful for her contribution.”

The event began with Ms. Nailah Imoja, who briefly reflected on her time in Bermuda. She remarked, “From the first day, I said they don’t need me; these are writers. Bermuda has some incredibly talented writers.” Following this, she introduced each participant, highlighting their unique talents before they presented their readings to the audience.

The participants read poems and excerpts of short stories that they had submitted and further developed during the workshop. Once all participants had shared their work, Ms. Imoja congratulated them and reiterated to the audience why she was so impressed from day one of the workshop.

Following the participants’ readings, Ms. Imoja read excerpts from her own pieces, including Jamaica’s Exam, which won the 27th Frank Collymore Literary Endowment Award in January 2025, Barbados' most prestigious literary award. She concluded the event by extending her heartfelt thanks to the Department of Culture for inviting her to conduct the workshops, expressing that she felt privileged to be part of the initiative.

The evening provided an enriching opportunity for literary appreciation and community engagement.

For further information about the Writer-in-Residence Programme, please visit www.culture.bm or contact the Department of Culture at 292-1681.