By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | April 15, 2025

In the heart of the Fraser Valley, a group of passionate young readers is stepping into the spotlight—not with a ball or a baton, but with a book. Local students are currently competing in a regional reading contest designed to celebrate literacy, comprehension, and the joy of storytelling. The stakes are high: the winners will go on to represent the Fraser Valley in a broader provincial competition, showcasing the intellectual talent that our community continues to foster.

This isn’t just about speed reading or test scores. The contest challenges students to dive deeply into selected literary works, understand complex themes, articulate thoughtful responses, and engage in spirited discussion with their peers and judges. For many of these young participants, it’s a moment to shine in a skill that often goes unnoticed—but that lies at the very core of lifelong success: reading.

Literacy as a Community Priority

The Fraser Valley has long championed education and community-based learning, with strong school districts, public libraries, and youth-focused programs all playing a role in making literacy a local priority. Events like this regional reading contest reflect that commitment. They offer a platform for young readers to be celebrated, encouraged, and inspired—transforming a solitary habit into a shared cultural achievement.

Across schools from Abbotsford to Mission and Chilliwack, teachers and librarians have been coaching their school’s top readers, helping them prepare for the contest by developing comprehension strategies, public speaking skills, and critical thinking. It’s a testament to the educators who see literacy not as a checkbox, but as a lifelong tool for empowerment.

More Than a Contest—A Cultural Moment

For the students involved, the contest has become a source of pride and motivation. They aren’t just representing their schools—they’re representing the Fraser Valley’s values. In a world of constant digital noise, this contest reminds us of the quiet power of reading: to open minds, strengthen empathy, and foster curiosity.

The event also draws in families and community members, many of whom come to cheer on the contestants. It’s not unusual to see grandparents in the crowd, or former students volunteering as event facilitators. This multigenerational support adds depth to the contest—it becomes a celebration of learning that includes everyone.

Looking Ahead: Literacy as Legacy

The winners of the Fraser Valley competition will go on to compete in a provincial reading showdown later this spring. But win or lose, these young competitors have already achieved something meaningful. They’ve embraced reading not just as a school assignment, but as a skill worth mastering, celebrating, and sharing.

In a time when distractions are everywhere and attention spans are shrinking, the Fraser Valley reading contest is a quiet revolution. One that proves our communities still believe in the power of a good story—and the young minds ready to tell it.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jhansen@waypoint.ca. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

Tags:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #Abbotsford is Awesome #Literacy as a Priority

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