BNTU to Stage First Ever King “BNTU Pageant” at National Convention

The Belize National Teachers’ Union is set to make history later this month with the staging of its first ever BNTU King Pageant, one of the highlight events planned for the union’s upcoming national convention in Belize City. The pageant, scheduled for March twenty-eighth, will feature nine male educators representing districts across the country as they compete for the title of Mr. BNTU 2026. Organizers say the competition forms part of a wider four-day lineup of activities designed to celebrate teachers, strengthen unity within the profession and promote positive role-models in education.  The contestants were officially introduced during a sashing ceremony held on February 7, where fellow teachers gathered to show support as preparations began for the historic event. The judging will focus not only on appearance, but also professionalism, communication skills, talent and community involvement, qualities the union says are central to the teaching profession.

Representing Punta Gorda is 28-year-old Maclovio Ack, who told Love News that he sees the competition as an opportunity to inspire young people, especially in southern communities.

Maclovio Ack, Teacher, Punta Gorda Methodist School: “It’s a lot of preparation, a lot of time that I have to put in, preparing my speech, my items, because I want to give the audience a show. But more importantly, I see this more than just a competition. I see it as an opportunity to advocate for the mental health of our teachers. We have a lot of teachers that are standing in front of that classroom with limited resources, overcrowded class rooms but yet these teachers still perform because of the love they have for their children. And that is what I want to advocate for, that teachers should be recognized, teachers are valued, teachers are important, and that they matter. I’m inviting everybody to support me, especially the teachers in PG. I encourage you guys to also sign up for the convention. Actually, this is a convention that will be held in Belize City. It will be four days, so I’m encouraging all teachers in the entire country to sign up for this convention. It is very, very informative and you know, there will be lots of activities events and this Saturday will be the Mr. King pageant and I’m inviting everybody, you know, So, go and you know, support not only myself, but all the contestants.”

BNTU officials say the King Pageant adds a new dimension to the convention by highlighting male educators and celebrating the personality and creativity of teachers beyond the classroom.  The inaugural Mr. BNTU King Pageant takes place March 28 in Belize City as part of the union’s four-day national convention activities. The winner will serve as a national ambassador for the BNTU throughout 2026.