Joshua Brown and Gabrielle Wright are Mr and Mrs Preston (UWI) 2026 – Jamaica Observer

Four men and six women, all residents of AZ Preston Hall at the University of the West Indies (UWI), recently competed for the titles of Mr and Miss Preston Hall.

The coronation took place last Sunday at the Phillip Sherlock Centre, on the premises of the University of the West Indies.

At the end of the proceedings, Joshua Brown, a 20-year-old political science student, won the title of Mr. Preston Hall, while first-year psychology student Gabrielle Wright, 19, took home Miss Preston Hall.

In a recent interview with Online viewerboth honorees shared their experiences in sports and what they hope to achieve after university.

“I entered the competition because I wanted to challenge academics and enter a place where I could represent my hall, my values ​​and my voice. It was an opportunity to grow, inspire others and contribute meaningfully to the community of Preston,” said Brown.

Brown said the competition helped him grow and develop.

“The journey was transformative. It pushed me mentally, emotionally and socially. There were moments of stress, but also moments of growth, connection and self-discovery that I will carry with me long after the competition. My biggest motivation was the desire to make an impact.

He said on the topic of Mr. Preston Hall, he has a lot of responsibilities to do.

“Winning this title means responsibility. It’s not just about being accepted, but about leadership, service and being a voice for others. It represents the trust placed in me by my peers. I hope to strengthen communication between citizens and leadership, promote awareness of mental health and do activities that include and contribute. West Indies.

“After I leave UWI, I would like to build a career in government and public service, where I can contribute to the development of the country and advocate for policies that improve the lives of people throughout Jamaica,” said Brown.

For Wright, entering the competition was a way to overcome her insecurities.

I entered the Mr and Miss Preston pageant to prove my worth to my little self. For a long time, I let my insecurities, doubts and self-imposed limitations define me, but I decided that they would no longer define my life.

Describing the journey as stressful and impactful, Wright said, “It was stressful because I faced several roadblocks, detours and even rejection. or the financial support was no longer just about me;

Wright said, “Winning this title represents strength and tenacity. This crown is a constant reminder of what it took to get here, not only for me, but for all the contestants and title holders. That collective effort is what brought us to this moment. In addition, Miss Preston’s title carries weight and represents advocacy, leadership and excellence that will continue to exist. “

“Through this title, I hope to have a greater impact on the women of Aston Preston Hall. Through service efforts, I want to encourage growth, confidence and opportunity in young girls through the big sister program. I strongly believe that leadership begins with service, and I intend to lead by serving. In terms of student well-being and change, I would like to see strong student support that includes strong support and more. mental health resources, open channels for students’ voices to be heard, and initiatives that support academic and personal development Often, students struggle in silence, so I want to advocate for an environment where seeking help is normal, and support is not only available but actively reaches students.

Wright, who is from St Mary’s and completed the sixth form at York Castle High School, said she hopes to become a clinical psychologist after completing her studies.

“My goal is to have a positive impact on the lives of others, because to me, making a meaningful difference in people’s lives is one of the greatest things a person can achieve,” he said.

Shannah Hemmings and Ash-Monique McIntosh were first and second runners-up for the Miss Preston portion of the pageant, while Tashwayne Hill and Michael South finished second and third for Mr. Preston.

Award winners in categories are People’s Choice — Kayla Sloley and Joshua Brown; Best Creative – Joshua Brown and Gabrielle Wright; Best in Community – Michael South and Gabrielle Wright; Best Dressed of the Evening – Joshua Brown and Gabrielle Wright; Best Talent – Taswayne Hill and Gabrielle Wright; and Best Of – Gabrielle Wright.