Over 16,000 entries were made to the International Songwriting Competition, but it was a local singer/songwriter who came out on top.

The International Songwriting Competition features work from 140 countries across 24 different categories. After making the finals along with fellow Manitoban Jordan St. Cyr, Jaylene Johnson learned Wednesday that she was named first place in the Christian category for her song 'This Little Light'.

"It gives you a little boost, it gives you a shot in the arm," Johnson said.

It was an important win for Johnson, who has been dealing with stuff related to her music. She is excited that this contest could draw attention to the story in her song.

"It's kind of an offering that I'm just putting out there as an artist."

The worldwide competition has sparked interest in Johnson's music around the world, including Czechoslovakia, where a teacher used her album to teach English to their class.

Johnson has been in the finals for the past two years, finishing second place in the Christian category last year. She said when nominated for the finals that the awards won't help her sell more records, but they are very encouraging to win.