It was a beautiful sight to behold on the 12th of October 2024, as Leinyuy Saber Emelienne, the reigning national English Scrabble champion, proudly presented her trophy to the eager crowd gathered for the Scrabble for Peace Initiative in Bamenda. The event, organised by the Scrabble for Peace Initiative in partnership with the Cameroon Women in Action Society (CAWAS), drew a lively mix of Scrabble players and enthusiasts, all united by their love for the game and their shared hope for a brighter future in the North West Region.
Leinyuy, who is also the CEO of CAWAS, was the star of the day, her presence symbolising not only her recent national triumph but also the potential for Scrabble to bring about positive change. As she held her trophy aloft, smiles and applause filled the room, creating an atmosphere of inspiration and excitement.
“This trophy is not just a symbol of victory in Scrabble, it’s a symbol of what we can achieve when we come together. Scrabble is more than just a game. It teaches us skills that can help build peace and understanding in our communities. Through this initiative, we can create spaces for learning, collaboration, and hope.” Leinyuy Saber Emelienne told the gathered crowd
Her words were deep, particularly in a region that has faced the strain of conflict. The day was about more than Scrabble; it was about fostering unity and using the game as a tool for dialogue and stress relief. With about 30 participants, both experienced players and those new to the game, the event sparked enthusiasm for the formation of local Scrabble clubs, an idea which had the backing of many in attendance.
Yaya’s success as the 2024 national champion was an inspiration to many, as it demonstrated the heights that could be reached through dedication to the game.
“This is the beginning of something much bigger. We are laying the foundation for a Scrabble community that will not only produce champions but also inspire peace and growth in the North West Region.” she said
A representative from the Delegation of Sports and Physical Education was present, further affirming the initiative’s potential to become a formalised part of the region’s sporting landscape.
"At the level of the Delegation and the regional delegate who sent me, we are very proud of Yaya for this achievement as the national Scrabble champion. I call it a game of the "brain" for it offsets the usual games of canvas and joggies. She made our region proud. She has become an inspiration to many. I encourage her to continue pushing for the creation of Scrabble clubs and associations at the divisional, subdivisional, and school levels. Through these clubs and associations, we can nurture talent, promote mental engagement, and create spaces where the game of Scrabble can thrive across our region." Cecilia Nambu Woiniba epse Kombil, Regional Chief of Service for Sports representative of the Regional Delegate for Sports and Physical Education at the event.
Attendees brainstormed ways to structure the future of Scrabble in the North West, including the creation of clubs that would feed into a larger association of English-speaking Scrabble players. The aim is clear: to ensure that Scrabble would be promoted not just in homes, but also in schools, reaching more young people and encouraging positive engagement.
By the end of the event, resolutions had been made to push forward with these plans. Scrabble clubs would soon be formed across the region, with the goal of establishing a formal association that would promote the game and foster lasting connections among players. For many, the sight of Leinyuy presenting her trophy had already sown the seeds of what could become a thriving Scrabble community.
Reflecting on the day’s success, Leinyuy Saber Emelienne expressed her optimism for the future.
“Scrabble has the power to unite people, to bring joy, and to create understanding. I am confident that through this initiative, we will not only develop strong Scrabble players but also help build peace in our region. This is only the beginning.” she said
As Leinyuy Saber Emelienne’s trophy glistened in the afternoon light, it was clear to all present that the Scrabble for Peace Initiative had sparked a movement. A movement not just for the love of words, but for peace, resilience, and hope in Bamenda.
By Ngenwie SA
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