This month, ETA Ruby Mead hosted her local WORDS competition at SMK Negeri 10 Makassar, where eight students competed for the chance to visit Jakarta for three days with Ruby.

The event began with brief introductions from English teachers Pak Iskandar and Ibu Elly, followed by a welcome speech from principal Dr. Andi Umar Patta. From there, the performances commenced.

Second- and third-place winners Gabriel Meivan Patanggu and Muh. Nur Ali Fahrezi offered riveting tales of friendly ghosts and ancient kings, while first-place winner Lathifah Amalia wowed the judges with her heartfelt story of an energetic capybara who must confront her mistreatment of her friends, the cheerful rabbit, and the calm wolf. Lathifah’s tale of evolving friendship and its many challenges earned her a place in the national competition in Jakarta this coming April.

Once certificates were distributed and congratulatory photos were taken in abundance, participants celebrated with complimentary lunches and American lollipops provided by Ruby. Lathifah’s classmates congratulated her with enthusiasm and support—cheering her on with pride as she prepares for the next stage of the WORDS competition. SMK Negeri 10 Makassar, along with all teachers and students, wishes her luck as she embarks on this exciting adventure as a representative of her community.

Ruby Mead is currently teaching at SMKN 10 Makassar, South Sulawesi.