Guam’s High School Students Lift High Their ‘Voices of Courage and Hope’
An abundance of talented Guam high school students came together on October 25 to showcase their remarkable talents and express their unwavering commitment to peace and unity in a competition called “Voices of Courage and Hope.”
The event, emceed by Antonio Whatley II, and held at the Micronesia Mall, proved to be more than just a talent contest – it was a celebration of creativity and collaboration. Organized with support from the Micronesia Mall, Tumon Bay Youth Orchestra, Guam Philharmonic Foundation, Tamuning-Tumon-Harmon Mayor’s Office, and ICAP, the evening was a powerful display of how art can inspire and promote harmony.
Prior to the event, Latin Grammy Award-winning flutist Nestor Torres, the evening’s guest of honor, worked with 50 young musicians from the
Tumon Bay Youth Orchestra. Together, they delivered captivating performances featuring anime themes, soundtracks from such films as Phantom of the Opera and the “James Bond” series, and the timeless classic from The Wizard of Oz, “Over the Rainbow.”
Competition and Awards
The talent showcase included two elements: singing and a poetry slam. For the singing competition, the winners were:
- First place: Janessa Alerre
- Second place: Gabrielle Eay
- Third place: Angelee Pontillas
In the poetry slam, the winners were:
- First place: Janessa Aleena Nauta
- Second place: Nikolette Salas
- Third place: Akaya Wilson
Winners received Micronesia Mall gift cards worth $300, $200, and $100 respectively. All other participants were awarded $25 gift cards, ensuring that everyone’s efforts were recognized.
Messages of Inspiration
The event began with a video message from ICAP President Herbie Hancock, who reflected on Guam’s historical transformation and its pivotal role in the global peace movement:
“Guam, the island of victory that in the 20th century rose like a phoenix from the ashes of a cruel and tragic war, has now taken flight on wings of peace. To join this movement has been my deepest joy. I am particularly inspired to see Guam’s talented high school students working together to create art that promotes peace and unity.”
He added: “Our wish is that this event, ‘Voices of Courage and Hope’, serves as a turning point for each participant to grow into global citizens dedicated to fostering peace worldwide. Sharing in this mission is my greatest hope.”
Recognizing Every Effort
Former Speaker of the Guam Legislature (2009–2017), Dr. Judith Teresita Perez Won Pat, spoke on behalf of ICAP, one of the partner organizations for the event, bringing to everyone’s awareness the impactful recognition that the arts are one language that everyone can understand, and that the main goal of the arts is peace.
Tamuning-Tumon-Harmon Vice Mayor Albert M. Toves extended his official congratulations by presenting a Certificate of Appreciation to the TBYO on behalf of ICAP.
Nestor Torres also shared words of encouragement, highlighting that the resolve to persevere and never give up is far more significant than simply winning or losing. He applauded the students for achieving a remarkable milestone in creating art that serves the noble cause of peace.
A Powerful Poetic Voice
The first-place winner of the poetry slam, Janessa Nauta from Titan High School, delivered a raw and moving piece reflecting identity, heritage, and the power of art to unite and inspire. Here is an excerpt from her winning piece:
Outside I am different and people poke at every trait that makes me unique and I don’t know who (I am)
I am my ancestors legacy. Perfect or not, I am CHamoru; a human being.
And to be a human being is being human, it’s not about fitting in. We shouldn’t fear diversity.
These lines that I rhyme serve to keep my heart intact
Every drop of emotion reminds me of the fact
That when I stand for my flag I make a promise
And as the inefresi is my guide with all my heart I shall defend
i Hinengge,
i Kottura,
i Lengguahi,
i Aire,
i Hanom yan i tano’ CHamoru
Because when I look in the mirror I am a CHamoru at heart
I solemnly swear that I will do my part
I am proud
I am different
I pledge to promote peace and diversity through my art
Through their talents, passion, and commitment, Guam’s youth proved that, beyond merely being performers, they are also – and perhaps more importantly – ambassadors of hope, courage, and peace in a world that needs it most. Their efforts remind us that art has the power to lift hearts, transcend boundaries, foster unity, and inspire positive change in ourselves, our families, our communities, and the world.
