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Stennett 'SpotlightKunta' Harris, a Jamaican living in the United States, has been hosting 'dumpling cooking' competitions online since September, with rewards as high as US$150, to assist persons who are struggling to stay afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic.

With times already stressful, Harris has made the rules to this competition very simple - all he asks is that the entrants are creative with their dumplings.

"The competition is on! The dumpling must be big, must be made with vibes and style, and the dumpling must be shaped neat and quickly," Harris told THE STAR.

Harris started hosting the weekly competition when he realised that many persons have been struggling financially because of COVID-19. He says this is his way of giving back.

"The competition started September 14 and will run until October 14. I have had a great reception from my followers. Due to so many struggles from COVID-19, I just wanted to share a little relief by giving away some cash," he said.

Harris, who is also a chef, says he wanted something fun and enjoyable, so he decided to go with a dumpling contest.

"We look for the biggest and the neatest dumpling, while showing style and creativity. And we want them to cook it, because remember that when it cook, it definitely can show if it shape right. It nuh necessarily affi cook good, because we nah go can taste it," he said, laughing.

"I just wanted something fun. I am a chef and run a restaurant, and it is very challenging to make a big dumpling with the right shape, so I think it is a good competition. Anybody can make a small, neat dumpling, but the bigger size is a problem."

And anyone can participate in the virtual contest by uploading their videos and tagging his page. The persons with the most 'likes' gets US$150. The second-place winner gets US$100, and the third-place contestant gets US$50.

"It's all about persons showing how to make the biggest and neatest dumpling with unique vibes," Harris added.