Shifa Amankwa-Gabbey

Years back, even before I joined my local bee, I used to watch in awe of spellers who take on the big Scripps stage, sailing effortlessly through rounds of spelling words that I never heard of. If anyone told me that a few years later, I’d be on that same stage representing a whole continent, and even meeting some of the spellers I used to watch, I wouldn’t believe it! My time in USA should be one of my most unforgettable moments. I loved meeting and interacting with fellow participants. The icing on the cake for me was my documented journey on CNN’s African Voices. Despite being a one-time participant, the one thing I’ve taken from the bee is persistence. Seeing some of the spellers come back every year to earn the spot is a trait I definitely have to acquire. Most importantly, I’m thankful for the amazing friends I’ve gotten to know through the bee.

Shifa displaying her Bee Keeper at the 2018 National Spelling Bee
Shifa in an interview with CNN’s African Voices