Excitement as MUJ St Catherine to be crowned

The first Miss Universe Jamaica St Catherine will be crowned on Thursday at the HEART College of Construction Services in Portmore, and the organisers say that the seven contestants are “more than ready to compete”.

“The level of training they have been exposed to has been intense,” chief organiser, Janique McKenzie told The Gleaner. “Through the support of our fitness sponsor, Classic Body Fitness Center, the ladies have received comprehensive fitness training, along with coaching in walk and poise. The trainers have worked diligently to prepare them for competition, and we're extremely grateful that they have invested their time and expertise in our contestants.” 

She explained that the journey started with approximately 20 entrants from communities right across St. Catherine, including Spanish Town, Linstead, and Portmore. McKenzie shared, however, that it has not been easy retaining the young women throughout the competition, “particularly because sponsorship remains one of the biggest challenges we face”.

“Now, down to seven committed finalists, we remain determined to push through. The ladies have risen to the challenge. They are putting in the work every single day, and it shows. We're very excited about what patrons can expect on coronation night. It promises to be an evening filled with fun, excitement, entertainment, and a few surprises,” McKenzie said.

On coronation night, contestants will be assessed on walk and poise, swimwear presentation, formal wear presentation, and their community involvement. 

 One of the highlights of the evening will be the costume segment, which was inspired by the Cruella de Vil theme that McKenzie envisioned at the beginning of the competition. This segment will allow contestants to showcase their creativity and individuality in a unique and exciting way.

Patrons will also be treated to entertainment from talented, up-and-coming artiste Tahirah-Elizabeth Scott and Daniel-John Jackson, who will be serenading patrons with the soothing sounds of his saxophone.

McKenzie made it clear that she is not a one-woman band and was fulsome in her praise for “the incredible team working behind the scenes to make this competition possible”. She singled out Juneith McKenzie-Campbell, Jordon Williams, Damion Mitchell, Nicolette Clayton, and Julien Mills. On the production side, she hailed Pure Majic Productions for assisting with stage management, lighting, and the overall production of the event.

Tickets for Thursday’s coronation are now available, with a special VIP premium all-inclusive experience that comes with food and drinks. 

entertainment@gleanerjm.com