Celebrating Literary Talent: The Third Doctor Mena Literary Contest
In a vibrant celebration of creativity and expression, the Asociación de Vecinos San Pedro Alcántara, in collaboration with the Museums of Fuerteventura, recently announced the winners of the Third Doctor Mena Literary Contest. This initiative has seen active participation from residents across the Canary Islands, showcasing their literary prowess in the categories of poetry and micro-narratives.
The event was graced by prominent figures, including Lola García, the President of the Fuerteventura Island Council. She took a moment to commend the Asociación de Vecinos for their unwavering commitment to reviving this literary contest, which she believes epitomizes the idea that culture flourishes through community engagement. “This contest highlights the extraordinary talent present on our Island,” she remarked.
Rayco León, the Councillor for Museums of Fuerteventura, echoed her sentiments. He emphasized the contest’s significance in reaffirming Ampuyenta’s dedication to culture and literature. The event has evolved into a creative hub for writers across the Canary Islands, serving as a platform for aspiring authors to showcase their work and connect with fellow literary enthusiasts.
David de Vera, the Mayor of Puerto del Rosario, expressed gratitude to both the Island Council and the association for enabling the contest to flourish. He extended an invitation for all to engage in the programming of the upcoming Fray Andresito celebrations, suggesting that a community steeped in culture continues to thrive.
The event saw esteemed company, including Juan Manuel Verdugo, the Cultural Councillor of Puerto del Rosario, and other notable attendees such as David Reyes, the President of Asociación de Vecinos San Pedro Alcántara, and Idaira Reyes, the project coordinator. They collectively celebrated the impressive turnout of approximately 200 submissions, praising the high quality and diversity of the entries.
In the poetry category, the first prize was awarded to Néstor Pérez Domínguez for his thought-provoking piece, Con el cajón abierto, hailing from Candelaria in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Following closely, Diana Sayago Armas from Puerto del Rosario took home the second prize for her work, Al ser nombrada, La Ampuyenta, while the third prize was awarded to Palmera solitaria by Iván Shioppa, also from Puerto del Rosario.
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The first prize in the micro-narrative category was awarded to Marjorie Rodríguez España from Los Estancos for her evocative piece, Ceder al viento, pertenecer a la tierra. The second prize went to Isabel María Lobato Jiménez from La Orotava, Tenerife, for her entry, La verdad escondida. Meanwhile, Fernando Armas Pérez from San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, received the third prize for his micro-narrative titled El traficante.
Additionally, Milagros Cabrera was recognized with the first accessit for her work, Mi infancia en mi pueblo, and Lucía Rodríguez received the second accessit for her entry, Volver a casa.
The contest rewards the top three works in each category with monetary prizes and trophies—150 euros for first place, 100 euros for second, and 75 euros for third. Notably, there’s also a selection of outstanding entries published in a collective book, celebrating the talents of the island’s writers.
