Antigua and Barbuda: Miss Jaycees Queen 2023 is all set to return to shores of Antigua to celebrate 60 years of Vibrancy, Culture and Talent”. 10 contestants will participate and vie for the title.
The profiles of the contestants outlined are as follows:
Meet Valentchina Dantes from Haiti
Valentchina Dantes, a proud 24 year old, representing the first independent country in the Caribbean, Haiti. On July 31st, 8 pm at Carnival City, Antigua come and explore her cultural heritage through Talent and her vibrant personality.
She graduated with a degree in marketing and public relations. Her love for children, propelled her to volunteer in several organisations and foundations in her homeland, Haiti.
She has many dreams of honouring my country, one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean and the world. Beauty pageants create that platform to create awareness of what we as Haitians stand for and why we stand out within the aribbean’s archipelago.
Meet Janet Turner from Montserrat
Meet the radiant and dynamic Janet Turner, a 26-year-old from the charming Emerald Isle of the Caribbean, Montserrat. With a heart brimming with passion and a mind bursting with knowledge, Janet is an unstoppable force to be reckoned with.
Janet’s educational journey began at Lookout Primary, followed by Montserrat Secondary School, and culminating with a first-class Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from the prestigious University of the West Indies. Driven by a deep-seated belief In the transformative power of education, she is dedicated to making a positive impact on the world around her.
Previously employed as a Clerical Officer at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution, Janet has demonstrated her remarkable organizational skills and unwavering commitment to excellence. She currently holds the position of Senior Clerical Officer at the Department of the Environment In the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Housing, and the Environment.
With a bold vision of promoting Montserrat to the world and becoming a successful entrepreneur, Janet is determined to make her mark on the world. In her leisure time, she enjoys exploring the awe-Inspiring rainforests of Montserrat, cooking up a storm in the kitchen, and immersing herself in a good book. Always eager to learn and grow, Janet plans on pursuing an MBA to take her professional development to new heights.
As a Miss Jaycees candidate, Janet is poised to inspire young women across the globe to pursue their passions, no matter how unconventional or daring they may seem. A passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, education, and community development, she sees this platform as an opportunity to make a profound and lasting impact on society.
With her formidable intellect, grace, and infectious spirit, Janet is a true beacon of hope and inspiration. She feels privileged and thrilled to be a part of the Miss Jaycees pageant, eagerly anticipating the exciting challenges and opportunities that Be ahead.
Meet Adicia Burton from Dominica
Twenty-year-old Adicia Burton, was born and raised In the hamlet of Crayfish River of the Kalinago Territory in Dominica. She began her educational journey at the isulukati Preschool, then proceeded to her elementary education at the Salybia Primary School where she graduated as Valedictorian and scholarship recipient of the Grad* Six National Assessment.
She attended the Castle Bruce Secondary School, where she graduated Valedictorian and Student of the Year of the Class of 2019. Adicia was awarded for her excellent performance in the 2019 CSEC examinations placing among the top 3 scholars in Dominica. In May of 2022, she graduated from the Dominica State College with honors and holds an Associate’s degree in Math, Biology and Chemistry.
Meet Jareena Penn from Virgin Islands
A radiant daughter of the Virgin Islands, Jareena Penn exemplifies a woman walking In her power; she Is patriotic, personable and well-poised to serve our territory.
Jareena is a member of the Ellvated Dance Company and a student of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College. Initially, she embarked on pursuing a degree in General Studies and Business Administration, however, to continue developing her passion for the arts, Jareena Intends to transition her focus to Humanities study.
From an early age, Jareena was taught the value of hard work, and this is exemplified in her commitment to community, sports, dance and academics. Armed with the can-do spirit of the mighty striders, Jareena’s multifaceted aptitudes have allowed her to serve as a front liner of the Lady Rams Cheerleading, Rams softball and volleyball teams, the Twirling Striders Majorette and Basseterre High Cheerleading.
As a survivor of sexual abuse, Jareena is a strong advocate for raising awareness of abuse by challenging rape culture and demanding a safer world for girls, women and males. Her nonprofit YANA (You re Not Alone) is a space for victims to own their stories with the goal of shifting the paradigm.
Meet Shafeyah Guishard from St Kitts and Nevis
The second of three sisters and raised in the community of New Town, St. Kitts, Shafeyah Guishard is considered by family and friends as an introvert. Shafeyah was born on 25th August 2000 to mother Mrs. Donna Maccou and Glenroy Guishard. She attended the Tucker Clarke Primary School graduated from the Washington Archibald High School and later advanced her studies at the Clarence y Bryant College where she gained an Associate degree in Entrepreneurship.
She is known throughout the federation as a fashion designer, writer and model She honed g skills at Clothing and Textiles class at the Washington Archibald High School. Shafeyah took chance of faith when she designed and made her prom dress and won the title Prom Queen, in 2017. Shafeyah claims that fashion and style is an escape from mental imprisonment Through fashion she has d what she can become.
spiration from the women around her ideas as unique, optimistic and outgoing who continuously encourage her to never give up on her dreams and what she is passionate about.
In 2019 Shafeyah showcased her fashion line, “R3belette Couture”, at the New York Fashion Week.
Having battled with depression, anxiety and eating disorders, Shafeyah has had a front row view of the negative effects of mental illness; the primary reason for her wanting to become a voice for the voiceless. She vows to be an advocate and bring awareness of mental health issues to all.
Meet Rynel Harris from US Virgin Islands
On a warm April day in 1999. Rynel Harris, entered this world as a bundle of ambition and determination born and raised on the enchanting island of St. Croix. Growing up in such a historic and culturally rich environment has shaped her personality, instilling the values of generosity, thoughtfulness, charisma, and the belief in being the change she wants to see.
Her journey in education began at the esteemed St. Croix Educational Complex, where she discovered my passion for marketing. In 2016, she became a certified marketer through the St. Croix Career & Technical Education Center, setting the foundation for her future endeavours.
While pursuing her studies, she also nurtured her love for the performing arts, becoming involved in the vibrant theatre scone and honing my creative talents. Troughout her academic journey, she recognized the importance of empowering others, particularly women. “As the President of The Women’s Voice, I had the privilege of king on a platform that focused on female empowerment the Virgin Islands, nurturing the voices of tomorrow’s omen. I also served as the first District 1 Director for the Texas Caribbean Student Organization, advocating for Caribbean students and their unique perspectives.” Harris added.
With a burning desire to showcase the hidden gems of her beloved St. Croix, she embarked on her current path as a full-time student at Texas Southern University, majoring in Marketing with a minor in Theatre.
Her ultimate dream is to market her home in a different tight, Illuminating the wonders of the islands 84 square miles. To this end, she joined the Houston Virgin Islands Association and became the Senior Creative Director for Agape, a clothing brand dedicated to supporting breast cancer victims. Additionally, as the Digital Content Manager for “Lokally,” she has had the opportunity to promote and share everything happening in the U.S. Virgin s with a wider audience.
Meet Shanice Butcher from Saint Lucia
Shanice Butcher is a resilient and strong-minded 25-year-old with a deep passion for sports, education, and environmental activism. Throughout her life, she has faced significant challenges, but have ed stronger and more determined than ever.
Despite encountering obstacles along the way, including high (lying and financial difficulties, these experiences the value of compassion, generosity, and the I standing up for others. These experiences also in her the virtues of hard work, patience, and resourcefulness.
She currently serves as an English teacher to students in forms I, 2, 3, and 0, while also working as an assistant netball coach at the Sir Ira Simmons Secondary School. This dual role has allowed her to mentor and shape the minds of young athletes, sharing her passion for sports and empowering them to reach their full potential.
She firmly believe that pageants are not solely about external beauty but also about inner strength, intelligence, and making a positive Impact In the world. Her personal journey of overcoming adversity and trauma has made her resilient, determined, and compassionate.
She shared, “Five years ago, I endured public scrutiny following a revenge scandal on the Internet. This traumatic experience caused me to hid* my true passion and hindered me from reaching my full potential. However, I have made the decision to no longer let my past define me. I have regained my belief in my belief and found the motivation to take back control of my life. I am determined to unlock my lull potential and be an advocate for Individuals who are unjustly labelled due to their past experiences rather than being recognized for the Incredible person they truly are.”
By sharing her own story, she hopes to Inspire others to conquer their obstacles and pursue their dreams fearlessly. She plans to Implement mentorship programs, workshops, and campaigns that provide Individuals lacing similar hurdles with the tools and support they need to succeed.
Meet Shadyn Mc Lean from St Vincent and the Grenadines
27 year old Shadyn Mclean, is a country girl at heart who enjoys the simpler things in life.
She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She received her academic foundation at the Argyle Roman Catholic Primary School where not only she was the torch for academic excellence ignited, but her love for sports burned.
At her alma mate they held the motto that “Perseverance leads success”. This is a simple but profound truth that she has maintained in her own personal development and it remains a a that she reminds herself of daily. Another and perhaps easily recognized motto that has become a doctrine of s ‘Per Adua Ad Alta — through difficulty to the heights, the motto of the St. Vincent Girls’ High School. Both journeys at different phases of her life have molded the proud Vincentian woman that she is today.
Adventurous in spirit she regularly explores the beauty that is St. Vincent & the Grenadines through various outdoor activities especially hiking. Additionally, she is an avid netballer, playing for the Maple Netball Club. As such, she firmly believes continued physical activity Is pivotal for a healthy lifestyle and increased life expectancy.
She is a thoughtful, determined and proactive optimist who strongly believes in youth engagement and advancement. This is evident in her involvement in various clubs and organisations, such as the CARICOM Youth Ambassadors, Stubbs Police Youth Club, and the Junior Chamber international (JCI) St. Vincent.
She also enjoys watching ecology-based and fashion-focused documentaries that feed her curiosity during her relaxation time. As a forever-optimist, she embodies the words of her favourite poet Maya Angelou, who once said, “I’ve learned that matter what happens, or how bad It seems today, life goes and it will be better tomorrow.’
