FROM the vibrant shores of St. Lucia to the esteemed halls of Oberlin College, Ohio, Khadijah Halliday’s journey as a poet has reached a notable milestone. The third-year student, double majoring in Psychology and Creative Writing, has been awarded the William T. Battrick Poetry Fellowship for 2024, distinguishing her as a prominent emerging talent in poetry.
The Battrick Fellowship, established from a bequest by Oberlin alumnus William T. Battrick in 1990, is awarded annually to a student demonstrating significant potential in poetry writing. This recognition places Halliday among a select group of young poets poised to shape the literary landscape. Oberlin College, recognized for having one of the top creative writing programmes in the United States, provides an ideal backdrop for nurturing her skills.
Before her tenure at Oberlin, Halliday was well-known in St. Lucia for her compelling spoken word performances. Her educational foundation was laid at Sir Arthur Lewis Community College and St Joseph’s Convent, where she first began honing her craft. This early exposure to the power of words has clearly paid dividends, as evidenced by her latest accolade.
As part of the fellowship, Halliday will receive a cash award. This support underscores the fellowship’s role not just in recognizing but also in fostering young literary talent. Halliday is also set to participate in the Creative Writing Awards Reading on April 29 at Oberlin’s Dye Lecture Hall, where she will present her work alongside her peers.
This award not only highlights Halliday’s personal achievements but also signals the continuing vitality of St. Lucia’s cultural export—its rich tradition of storytelling and artistic expression. As Halliday continues to develop her voice, she remains a figure of inspiration and pride for her community both in St. Lucia and abroad.
Khadijah Halliday’s recognition is a testament to her talent and a beacon for future poets from the Caribbean region, proving that the power of poetry knows no bounds.