The 2026 provincial spelling bee in Nova Scotia, hosted by the Black Educators Association, attracted more than 100 students aged 8 to 15. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the event took place at Mount Saint Vincent University, where young spellers showcased their skills. Jacqueline Herriott, Director of Programs at the Black Educators Association, expressed pride in the event's growth, noting that over 2,000 students have participated over the years. Contestants like 13-year-old Josephine Abbas and 11-year-old Tireni Akinmejiaa shared their excitement and nerves, emphasizing the fun of the competition over winning. Herriott highlighted that many past contestants have gone on to pursue higher education and returned to support the event as judges, demonstrating the community's ongoing engagement. The spelling bee not only fosters spelling skills but also enhances public speaking confidence among participants, preparing them for future challenges.