A fundraising art auction hosted by Mango Tango Gallery on St. Thomas is helping fund scholarships and travel for Virgin Islands high school students participating in the annual Moot Court Competition, organized by the Virgin Islands Bar Foundation. The auction ends Saturday, May 24.
For the past 49 days, the gallery has showcased vibrant artwork created by local island artists. Each piece is available for purchase through the auction, with 100 percent of the proceeds going toward the Moot Court program’s expenses.
The program offers students in grades nine through 12 the opportunity to engage in a two-day mock trial of judicial proceedings, arguing both sides of a fictional case before a panel of sitting judges. Volunteer attorneys and teachers guide students through the monthslong preparation process.
“Our goal is to give kids here a real taste of the judicial system … [while also] fostering closer relations and understanding between students and the courts,” said Adam Thorp, Moot Court coordinator. “They learn how to absorb huge amounts of information, organize their thoughts logically, and present them in a persuasive way — skills that reach far beyond law.”
This year’s competition includes approximately 45 students from six schools — three on St. Thomas and three on St. Croix. According to Thorp, the students develop critical skills through their participation.
“It’s remarkable what these students walk away with … most come in terrified of public speaking, but over the three to five months we work with them, they gain confidence and the ability to think for themselves … It’s an opportunity for young adults to become more confident, and that’s invaluable,” Thorp said.
The Virgin Islands Bar Foundation is a nonprofit organization, and its Moot Court Competition relies heavily on private donations and fundraising efforts. Proceeds from the Mango Tango auction help cover essential costs, including interisland travel, research materials, and scholarships awarded to standout participants. In 2024, the foundation raised $26,000 for the program.
“The parents I have talked to have said that the money really does make a difference,” Thorp said.
Bidding for the Mango Tango art-auction fundraiser remains open through May 24. All net proceeds go directly to support the Moot Court Competition. Supporters may also contribute at any time by donating directly through the Virgin Islands Bar Foundation’s website.
