St Catherine’s has officially begun its search for the next parish queen under the new format of the parish level of the Miss Universe Jamaica pageant, with Parish Director Janique McKenzie leading the effort to find a representative on the national stage. Casting began on March 15, with auditions in Portmore and Spanish Town. So far, 14 contestants have been chosen, each bringing their own beauty, confidence and skills – but the search is far from over.
“We have some amazing ladies,” McKenzie said The Gleaner. We are very proud to have such a good representation. We have females ranging in height from 5 ft 4 inches to 5 ft 8 inches, we have a good selection of females, both individually and in hybrids.”
While the overall response has been promising, McKenzie shared that attendance at Portmore was slightly lower than expected, while Spanish Town saw a strong response.
“We have two more legs to play, one on the 4th of April, and the last on the fifth. For the fourth, it will be at Old Harbour, at a place to be announced, and the fifth will be at Linstead; [at] Linstead Community Resource Center under the auspices of Linstead CDC. Those events will run from 11 AM to 2 PM with each game,” said McKenzie.
If there is a lot of women’s dedication, the organizers will have an elimination round that will be presented where the strongest 20 ladies will be chosen. Once the final 20 contestants have been selected in the group, the focus will shift to intensive training, covering everything from behavior and production to communication and personal development.
It is expected that there will be an official sashing in May, setting the stage for the grand coronation, scheduled for June 27. And, if McKenzie’s vision comes to life, customers are there for an unforgettable experience.
This year’s game promises to be extraordinary. Taking inspiration from the Cruella de Vil character, McKenzie presents a bold and sophisticated ‘101 Dalmatians’ inspired theme.
“It’s about team, stealth, and style,” McKenzie added. “Half black, half white, it has a certain effect. We want something interesting and different.”
The program aims to not only celebrate beauty and intelligence but also provide a clear vision for consumers.
The time of crowning will bear its significance. If the reigning queen, Dr. Gabrielle Henry, is unable to attend, the honor will be done by Troy-Ann Anderson, Miss Universe Jamaica East and first runner-up in the 2025 national pageant.
WEALTH METHOD
The leader of the St Catherine’s competition is a woman rooted in sports and community development. McKenzie brings a wealth of experience, having previously held titles such as Miss Tourism at Moneague College, Miss Portland Festival Queen (2007), and the first Miss Farm Queen under the Jamaica Agricultural Society. Off stage, his professional background as an agronomist, nutritionist, and senior business development officer adds depth to his leadership style.
His relationship with St Catherine is deep. Having lived in the parish since the age of six and taught at several schools, including Jonathan Grant High, Charlemont High, Innswood High, and Portmore Community College, McKenzie knows how to nurture talent.
“My status is on the rise. It’s an honor to be put in a position like this and it’s great to reveal my potential,” McKenzie said.
As the preparations are intensifying, the director of the competition is calling on the participants of the cooperatives, especially the members of the business association of St Catherine, to support this project with support and collaborations. He added: “We want you to come on board to help us make this tournament fair and to praise our queen in the best possible way.”
With two sponsors already secured, the group hopes to expand its network of partners to raise overall productivity and provide significant opportunities for competitors.
o’brian.wynter@gleanerjm.com
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