Barbados is celebrating a major literary achievement as Akeem “Stonedwithcupid” Chandler-Prescod has emerged victorious at the CARICON Poetry Slam 2026, held in Curaçao on World Poetry Day.
Competing against a strong lineup of regional poets, Chandler-Prescod delivered commanding performances of his pieces In The Summer, Monsters Aren’t Real, and Suicide Bomber, securing the top spot and bringing the title home to Barbados. His performances captivated both judges and audience members, showcasing his signature blend of emotional depth, storytelling, and stage presence.
A three-time NIFCA Gold Awardee, Chandler-Prescod continues to solidify his place as one of the Caribbean’s leading spoken word artists. His recent international appearance at the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity further highlights his growing global impact and commitment to using poetry as a tool for reflection and social commentary.
Reflecting on his victory, Chandler-Prescod shared, “There is something profoundly full- circle about winning CARICON at this point in my life. I began my poetry journey in March 2016, so this victory arrives exactly a decade later, making it feel like the culmination of ten years of labour, discipline, and artistic development. I see it not only as a personal milestone, but as a win for Barbados and the contemporary poetry community. I carry this moment with gratitude, because it is the realization of not only my own efforts, but also the investment, encouragement, and faith of so many people over the past decade and even before that.”
His participation in the CARICON Poetry Slam was made possible through the support of the National Cultural Foundation.
This historic win marks a proud moment for Barbados it is a moment for Barbados.