The Barbados WizdomCRM Virtual Sustainable Stock Market AI Game Cycle 12 National Awards Ceremony, hosted by the Ministry of Education Transformation Barbados on Sunday 29th April, 2026 was more than a presentation of awards, it was a celebration of transformation, innovation, and the future of financial education in Barbados, held during Financial Literacy Month.
Cohost Isabella delivering opening speech at Barbados’ National Award Ceremony
The ceremony opened with a prayer by Mr. Randy Eastman, who acknowledged the collective efforts of the Ministry of Education, sponsors, teachers, and stakeholders whose investment helped make the initiative possible. He praised the discipline, creativity, and resilience demonstrated by participating students and highlighted the programme's role in developing future leaders, innovators, and nation-builders.
Reverend Steven Scott delivers his remarks at the Barbados WizdomCRM Cycle 12 National Award Ceremony
Throughout the ceremony, speakers emphasized the critical role financial literacy and digital competence play in preparing students for an increasingly AI-driven world. Reverend Steven Scott, Deputy Chief Education Officer (Acting), Planning and Development, speaking on behalf of Chief Education Officer Dr. Ramona Archer Bradshaw, noted that the Ministry has prioritized financial literacy and digital innovation as key pillars of Barbados' education transformation agenda. He highlighted that students participating in the programme executed hundreds of trades across regional and international markets, developing analytical thinking, resilience, and responsible decision-making skills while gaining practical experience in investing and finance.
A major highlight of the event was the virtual keynote address by Mr. Marlon Yard, Chief Executive Officer of the Barbados Stock Exchange. He described financial literacy as a national necessity and emphasized that understanding investment, entrepreneurship, and capital markets is essential to creating a resilient and competitive Barbados. He praised the WizdomCRMprogramme for introducing students to concepts such as business strategy, risk management, innovation, and informed decision-making through real-world simulations.
One of the most celebrated moments of the ceremony was the recognition of Loki Clarke of Queen's College. For quite some time, Loki has been the champion of the game regionally, consistently setting the benchmark for excellence in Barbados and across the Caribbean. After famously dethroning a four-time regional champion in a previous cycle, he has continued his remarkable dominance, becoming one of the most successful competitors in the history of the programme.
Regional Champion Loki Clarke delivers his remarks during the award ceremony
In Cycle 12, Loki once again secured first place in Barbados and first place in the region, finishing with an outstanding portfolio value of US $81,310.32. During his acceptance remarks, he attributed his success to adaptability, discipline, and a deep understanding of how markets work. He explained that every cycle is different and that success requires competitors to continuously adjust their strategies while maintaining a solid understanding of market behaviour. He also shared that the programme significantly influenced his decision to pursue a future in finance and taught him one of the most valuable lessons in investingdiscipline, particularly knowing when to cut losses and remain focused on long-term goals.
While Loki's continued success captured significant attention, one of the most inspiring stories of the ceremony belonged to Sarrayah Yearwood of The St. Michael School, who earned third place nationally with an impressive portfolio value of US $28,561.52.
3rd Place winner Sarrayah Yearwood addresses attendees with inspiring remarks during the Cycle 12 National WizdomCRM Awards Ceremony.
Sarrayah's success represents much more than a podium finish. Reflecting on her experience, she explained that the programme taught her how to trade with strategy rather than emotion. She learned the importance of analyzing market variables, managing risk, taking profits at the right time, and remaining disciplined in her decision-making. The competition helped her become more resilient, mentally stronger, and better equipped to evaluate opportunities in the financial markets.
Perhaps most impactful was her message as a young woman competing successfully in a traditionally male-dominated field. Sarrayah expressed pride in her achievement and shared her hope that her journey would inspire more young women to become involved in finance, investing, and technology. She noted that the experience strengthened her interest in pursuing a future career in finance and provided her with practical exposure to trading and investment principles that are rarely experienced at the secondary school level.
Cycle 12 Awardees and stakeholders at the Barbados WizdomCRM Virtual Stock Market Game National Awards Ceremony.
The country's top performers were recognized for their outstanding achievements, with Loki Clarke of Queen's College taking first place and earning US$81,310.32. Matthew Stainthill, also of Queen's College, secured second place with US$30,956.54, while Sarrayah Yearwood of The St. Michael School was awarded third place, earning US$28,561.52. Completing the list of top achievers were Noah Clarke of Queen's College, who earned US$26,643.82, and Yannick Schaefer of Harrison College, who received US$25,916.28.
The Top Three Winners pose for a picture together at the Barbados WizdomCRM Cycle 12 National Award Ceremony
The ceremony also highlighted the organizations whose support continues to make the programme possible. Special recognition was given to the Ministry of Education Transformation Barbados, WizdomCRM Caribbean Ltd, the Barbados Stock Exchange, RF Bank & Trust (RF Group), Sagicor Asset Management, and the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC). Representatives from these organizations reaffirmed their commitment to supporting financial literacy, educational innovation, and youth development throughout Barbados and the wider Caribbean.
RF Bank & Trust emphasized its mission of nurturing the next generation of financial leaders, while the Barbados Stock Exchange reiterated its commitment to promoting investment education and market literacy among young people. Both organizations praised the students for their outstanding performances and encouraged them to continue building the skills necessary to succeed in the future economy.
A Captive Audience: Stakeholders, Parents and Teachers Follow Barbados’ Cycle 12 National Award Ceremony Proceedings
As the ceremony drew to a close, speakers reflected on the broader impact of the programme. The WizdomCRM Virtual Stock Market Game continues to bridge the gap between education and the real world by providing students with practical experience in financial management, investing, artificial intelligence, digital technology, and critical thinking. Through this initiative, students are learning skills that will help them become future entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and innovators.
The stories of Loki Clarke and Sarrayah Yearwood perfectly captured the spirit of the event. Loki's continued reign as one of the programme's most accomplished champions demonstrates the value of discipline, adaptability, and persistence, while Sarrayah's achievement highlights the growing impact of young women in finance and investment. Together, they represent a new generation of Barbadian leaders who are proving that when students are empowered with the right tools and opportunities, they do not simply participatethey lead.