Khandae Wright

Khandae Wright is parish champion for Kingston in this year's Gleaner-Children's Own Spelling Bee competition.

The quiet girl from Mavisville Preparatory School wasn't sure about making a return after winning in 2005.

In September of 2006, she finally decided. "I just felt like I should give it another try," she said.

"It's been going very well; the programme is very streamlined and it's not just all boring, it's very interesting and enjoyable," she says of her training.

A typical evening sees her head to training, go home and split time between Spelling Bee and regular studies. She remains motivated by the competitive nature of coach Rev. Glen Archer's sessions.

Despite the schedule, she still finds time to participate in her school's Optimist Club. She used to play the recorder a lot but has found a new instrument: the drum.

Head girl

"I was chosen to be in the drumming group, but it's fun to play," she said. Apart from a growth in confidence, another change has been her ascension to the post of head girl.

"It feels good. I have to help with keeping order with the children, especially after school," she says.

Khandae wants to become an accountant.

She felt she overachieved in her first year in the Spelling Bee competition, finishing an outstanding third. This time she's hoping to at least get back in the top three and maybe even win it this time.