The Windsor-Essex Chapter of Épelle-Moi Canada will hold its French-language spelling bee Saturday, March 22, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the CAW Students Centre’s Alumni Auditorium.

Participants will compete in three age groups: 6 to 8 years, 9 to 11 years, and 12 to 14 years. The top three winners in each category will receive a cash prize, and the regional champions in each group will be invited to compete in the national competition.

The spelling bee will provide a great learning opportunity for local French-speaking youths, says organizer Emmanuelle Richez, an associate professor of political science: “It promotes literacy, self-discipline, public speaking skills, as well as the ability to set goals and challenge oneself for participants, all while having fun.”

Épelle-Moi Canada is a non-profit, charitable organization that offers a French-language educational program to young people aged 6 to 18 in Canada. Active in many regions of Canada, it focuses on literacy, leadership and entrepreneurship, community involvement, and cultural animation for young francophones and francophiles.

The spelling bee is sponsored by the Faculty of Arts Humanities and Social Sciences, the Office of Enrolment Management, the University of Windsor Alumni Association, and other community partners. Members of the public who are fluent in French — or know just a few words — are welcome to attend and support the young competitors.