The popular monthly GDNLife short story contest got off to a positive start in 2025 with two worthy winners who have continued to participate in the literary extravaganza and touch the hearts of readers.

Nanju Francisco took last month’s BD25 adult prize with her festive offering entitled The Christmas Figure which impressed judge Rohini Sunderam, from Bahrain Writers Circle.

“I really liked the way the mood of the story changed from bustling and bothersome, to cheerful and fun, and then towards the end a complete shift to nostalgia and sadness, and finally with a positive twist to learning to love oneself.”

Around 5,000 visitors to our popular social media platform www.gdnlife.com agreed and Evangeline Reyes Francisco, better known to her family, friends and short story lovers by her nickname ‘Nanju’ could not be happier.

“I can hardly believe that I’ve won again!” she said. “I’m truly overwhelmed. When I write a story, I put my whole heart into it, channelling all my emotions into each article and striving to give my best.

“I want to express my deep gratitude to God for the talent he has blessed me with, as well as to GDNlife, the judges, and the readers for their trust and unwavering support.

“I’ve experienced a multitude of blessings since my last contest success. Two of the most significant blessings I received recently include being awarded a ‘Certification of Recognition’ by the Filipino-American Association of Bahrain for my media contributions to the Filipino community here and being recognised as one of the top three nominees in the Media Category at the recently held Woman of the Year Awards 2024 organised by Bahrain This Month.”

Her latest successful entry was inspired by a real life experience.

“This story really happened to me,” said Nanju who lives in Juffair. “Sometimes, we find ourselves so engrossed in caring for others that we forget to nurture the most important person in our lives – ourselves.

“Loving yourself isn’t selfish; it should actually be our top priority. It’s crucial to distinguish between ‘self-love’ and traits like ‘narcissism’ or ‘obsessive self-admiration’. At its core, self-love means recognising your value and prioritising your own needs.

“It doesn’t imply neglecting others; rather, it emphasises the importance of caring for your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Treating yourself to something nice, whether it’s a delicious meal or a beautiful dress you admire, is essential. In fact, indulging in self-care regularly can enhance your mood, boost your confidence and elevate your self-esteem. Self-love teaches you to respect yourself, embrace your flaws and forgive your mistakes.

“There’s a saying: “You cannot give what you do not have.” This concept may seem odd, but it holds profound truth. If you lack self-love, it becomes difficult to offer love and care to others.

“Self-love should be the foundation from which all other love flows. It fosters empathy, compassion and understanding towards others, while also keeping us motivated, focused and healthy. The way we treat ourselves sets a benchmark for how others will treat us.

“Ultimately, embracing self-love leads to greater happiness and contentment. It allows you to grow into the person you’re meant to be and serves as an inspiration for others. So, prioritise self-love and ensure you cultivate a fulfilling, healthy and joyful life.

“Always remember, the most invaluable gift you can give yourself is love!”

Our U18 winner last month was another firm favourite with visitors to www.gdnlife.com and once again impressed the judges.

More than 7,700 visitors have enjoyed reading The Act Of Kindness, an entry by schoolgirl Arohi Jani.

The New Millennium School Bahrain pupil lives with her parents, IT consulting and project manager Siddharth and Roshni Jani, in Juffair, and she has won another pair of CINECO movie tickets.

“A lovely story with a great moral, Arohi! Well done,” said judge Chris Fenton, head teacher of the British Primary Department at Al Noor International School.

“What great news to start the year,” she replied. “I am delighted to be the U18 winner for the fourth time. GDN life always gives me hope and passion to write my next story. I love GDNlife! Also, I follow this famous quote: “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader!”

January entries are invited, so get writing up to 800 words today! Register, choose an image, create a title, paste and copy your words in text – and submit to share your work on www.gdnlife.com – clearly stating Adult or U18 entry.

Our panel of judges will also shortly decide on who should walk away with the annual GDNLife Short Story of the Year prize plaques in both categories after the competition’s fifth and final anniversary in March.

The winner of the GDNLife People’s Choice Award – the short story that has received the most views and likes – will also be announced for the last time.

Join the many keen writers of all ages who are being offered the chance to publish their work on Bahrain’s popular social media platform for a monthly prize.

In April, GDN Media will be launching an exciting new prize multi-media literary contest in print, online and across GDNlife and other social media channels, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

Watch this space!

managingeditor@gdnmedia.bh