A Corentyne man won the coveted first place in the senior male category in the semi-finals and is among 28 persons chosen to represent Guyana at the Eighth International Qaseeda Competition.

According to a press release from the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) Al Hajj Shamir of Fyrish, Corentyne walked away with the senior prize and Kevin Mohamed of Enmore won the junior prize. Seven other persons won prizes in the senior category and four others in the junior.

In the female category, Shameeza Baksh of Meten-Meer-Zorg won the first prize in the senior class and Shabana Persaud of Cane Grove won the top prize in the junior. Four other women were recognised in the senior category and two others in the junior group.

The CIOG said hundreds of patrons filled the auditorium of the Meten-Meer-Zorg Masjid to support their favourite singers. It said the 29 singers will represent Guyana at the international competition. The CIOG said too in addition to the trophies monetary awards were given to the first place winners in the male categories. The CIOG also said it is grateful to the MYO and the HIFAZ for sponsoring the contest.