Tema, March 8, GNA - Twenty-four children of the SOS Children's Village in Tema, at the weekend took part in a cultural competition dubbed: "Talento Expo 2010."

Contestants, who emerged first, second and third positions, took home as their prizes story books, t-shirts and a ticket each to take part in "Footprints 2010", a cultural programme slated for the National Theatre on Saturday March 13, 2010.

Emily Kwafo, a 13-year old Junior High School pupil, took the first position, with Paulina Okai, 11, a primary six child and Audrey Zorh, 13 also a Junior High School pupil placed second and third respectively. The contestants between the ages of eight and 14 years, competed in events such as drama, choreography, poetry, modeling, alongside traditional dancing.

Speaking at the function, Mr Isaac Kojo Ackon, Director of the village, said the programme, the first of its kind at the village, was aimed at giving children the opportunity to unearth their hidden talents in music and the arts.

By so doing, he said, the children, as future leaders of this nation, would be enabled to build confidence that would subsequently prepare them for other challenges ahead. Mr Ackon commended the contestants for their high sense of comportment during the competition, and wished the losers the best of luck next time. 8 March 10