Come October 9, a new Miss Jamaica World will be crowned but not before you get to know this year’s talented crop of contestants a little better. Find out their likes and dislikes, what ‘Beauty with a purpose’ means to them and how they are fulfilling their childhood aspirations. And because five questions just isn’t enough, enjoy these 15 responses from this year’s top 15.
Khalia Hall, 25, Miss General Food Supermarket.
Who is your role model?
My role model is my mother; she has come from very humble beginnings and has not changed at the core.
Mazika McDermott, Miss Knutsford Express
What does ‘Beauty with a purpose’ mean to you?
Beauty with a purpose means more than having a pretty face but actually giving back and standing in your truth and advocating for what you believe in.
Jahvel Byfield, 24, Miss Len’s Catering
Who is your role model?
My role model is my father; I admire the way [in which] he takes his job seriously. He ensures that he wakes up very early every single morning; he ensures that the workers are on time and gets everything done.
Shinell Mills, 21, Miss TM Ross Beauty
Who is your role model?
My role model is Yendi Phillipps; she is one of my favourite media personalities. Her journey and spirit is just something that inspires me each and every day.
Melessa Vassell, 25, Miss RE TV
What did you dream of becoming as a child?
As a little girl, I’ve always wanted to be an actress.
Shaedane Facey, 25, Miss Interlinc Communications
Who is your favourite artiste?
My favourite artiste would definitely be Rihanna. She has made her mark on the world, and that’s exactly what I want to do.
Pickqueena Burrell, 20, Miss P.A. Benjamin
Who is your role model?
My role model is definitely Davina Bennett, [just] the way she carries herself and rocks her natural hair.
Chantelle Biersay, Miss Jamaica Pegasus
What is your favourite hobby?
My favourite hobby would be dancing. I’ve been dancing since I was six years old.
Kerrion Erskine, Miss The Mushroom
Who is your role model?
Terri-Karelle Reid because she’s so vibrant. She’s a vivacious lady, and she’s so inspirational.
Justine Graham, 20, Miss Jamaica Observer
What is your favourite food?
Being from the parish of Portland, my favourite food is Boston jerk chicken.
Brithney Clarke, 24, Miss Nationwide News
What does ‘Beauty with a purpose’ mean to you?
Beauty with a purpose to me is a little about purpose and about passion. You know people look up to things that are beautiful and attractive, but at the same time, it gives us an advantage because persons tend to listen to us more, and this is our opportunity to use our voices and our beauty to enact change, influence other people to do the right thing and pretty much serve our people.
Dominique Shorter, 24, Miss Fontana
What did you dream of becoming as a child?
I had an affinity for Naomi Campbell, but in the same breath, my mom worked at the Supreme Court, so I was always surrounded by attorneys. So, think Naomi Campbell with a briefcase.
Marishan O’Sullivan, 25, Miss Island Brides
What does ‘Beauty with a purpose’ mean to you?
Beauty with a purpose for me is actually how we unite as one, how we are [love and care] for each other.
Toni-Ann Lalor, Miss Whitter Village
What is your favourite food?
My food depends on the mood. Sometimes I’m a salt mackerel rundown kinda girl, and another time I want some gungo rice and peas with some nice peppered curried goat.
Jamelia Rookwood, 27, Miss LP Azar
What does ‘Beauty with a purpose’ mean to you?
Beauty with a purpose means being yourself and being able to achieve any dream what you want to achieve.