By Fernando Arce, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Jolene Wood, a Grade 5 student at Harwich Raleigh Public School in Blenheim, is making waves in her community through her artistic talents. At just 10 years old, Jolene recently won the Chatham-Kent Police Services’ Values, Influences, and Peers (V.I.P.) program t-shirt design contest. Her artwork was chosen from a large number of entries across the municipality and will feature on t-shirts given to students graduating from the program this school year.
Jolene’s passion for art began as soon as she could hold a crayon, and her dedication has only grown since. Through participation in various local and school-based projects, she has developed her skills and explored a variety of artistic mediums.
When Grade 5 students at Harwich Raleigh were invited to participate in the contest, which promotes positive values and peer relationships, Jolene saw it as an opportunity to shine. Her winning design was met with excitement and pride by her teacher, Mrs. Stanford.
“While I’m super excited that Jolene won this contest, it isn’t surprising to me. She did this all on her own time, and when she showed me what she created, I was in awe! It’s quite cool for me as a teacher to witness one of my students get this sort of recognition,” said Mrs. Stanford, who has now celebrated two student victories in the V.I.P. contest during her tenure.
Jolene’s artistic education extends beyond school.
She has attended Art Camps, learning to work with various materials like clay, watercolours, and pastels, and has participated in mental health art sessions hosted by The Co., a local organization. These sessions have allowed her to explore the intersection of art and wellness.
Jolene also contributed to meaningful community projects, such as an interactive butterfly mural for Overdose Awareness Day in collaboration with Angel Bilagot and Reach Out Chatham-Kent. Her art has become a tool for raising awareness and fostering community engagement.
Last year, Jolene took her talent to the stage, participating in her school’s Talent Show with a speed painting challenge. In just three minutes, she created a reindeer painting in front of her peers and teachers, showcasing not only her artistic ability but also her confidence under pressure.