The Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services, through the Gender and Child Affairs Division, has launched ‘Walls for Change: Stand Together to End Bullying and Gender-Based Violence’, a national school-based art competition designed to engage students, ages seven (7) to seventeen (17) across Trinidad and Tobago in promoting kindness, empathy, and respect through creative expression. The competition runs from February 2 to March 31, 2026.
The competition uses art as a powerful tool to raise awareness about bullying and gender-based violence (GBV), while empowering students to become advocates for safe, inclusive, and respectful school environments. It aligns with national and international child rights frameworks and reflects best practices in anti- bullying and GBV prevention. Entries are encouraged in the two categories: Anti-Bullying (open to students ages 7–12) and Gender-Based Violence or Anti-Bullying (open to students ages 13–17).
Through the ‘Walls for Change’ competition, students are encouraged to explore themes of respect, safety, inclusion, and resilience using original artwork. Winning pieces will be transformed into murals and displayed in participating schools within the relevant education districts, turning school walls into lasting symbols of positive change.
The competition is open to students enrolled in public, private, vocational and special education institutions as well as home schooled students, who are citizens or legal residents of Trinidad and Tobago. Thus ensuring that all students, regardless of educational setting, are given an opportunity to have their voices heard.
Participants are required to submit one original individual artwork, measuring 18” x 24”, using traditional art media such as drawing or painting. Submissions must promote positive behaviour and environments free from bullying and violence and must not depict graphic violence, hate speech, or offensive content. Entries must include a title and a brief written description explaining the artwork.
The Walls for Change initiative supports the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of the Child, particularly children’s rights to be protected from violence and to express their views on matters affecting them. It also aligns with the National Child Policy and the National Policy Framework of Trinidad and Tobago (2025), which emphasise student support, youth empowerment, and positive peer engagement.
By harnessing creativity and “artivism,” the competition provides students with a meaningful platform to speak out, heal, and help shape safer school cultures, reinforcing the message that children are not just beneficiaries of protection, but also active agents of change. Students interested in participating can register via https://www.social.gov.tt/wfc/. For further information interested parties can contact the Gender and Child Affairs Unit at gca@social.gov.tt or 623-2608 ext:3351, 3355 or 3357.