‘Surreal’ - Miss Universe Jamaica Portland Celene Hall ready to represent parish

For 25-year-old Celene Hall, being crowned Miss Universe Jamaica Portland 2026 is still a surreal experience. The executive manager beat out 11 other contestants on Saturday to win the coveted title at Hotel Tim Bamboo in Port Antonio. Hall, who wore the sash of Miss ASAP Express Limited, was the first parish queen crowned under the new Miss Universe Jamaica parish-level pageant system. Portland also has the distinction of having the first automatic spot in the national finals with their first runner-up, Alyssa Francis. 

After the rounds of pictures, hugs, and countless congratulations from family, friends, and well-wishers, Hall told The Gleaner that she still has to pinch herself to see if it is all real. “Honestly, I’m still taking in that moment. When I heard my name, everything went quiet for a second. I remember telling myself, ‘You’ve grown beyond your expectations through this, crowned or not, be proud of the woman you’re becoming.’”

She added that what was always present for her was gratitude, humility, and a deep sense of God’s presence. “I thought about every step that led me to that stage, every moment of doubt I had to push through, and I just felt overwhelmed in the best possible way. Looking out and seeing the support in the audience made the moment feel even more surreal — it was truly special.”

Winning, she said, evoked a sense of great pride as the crown represents more than a title. “It’s a responsibility as I carry not only my parish, but the people and support system that stood behind me throughout this journey. I’m excited, but also very aware of what this moment represents. I’ve been preparing for this from the beginning, and I’m ready to step into it with purpose and intention.”

Hall, who also won the Most Aware award, added that going forward, she will be working on her non-profit organisation, the Hummingbird Foundation, in the hopes of making it more visible. “For me, it is about showing people, especially young women, that small, intentional actions can create real impact. I plan to expand outreach, build stronger partnerships, and reach more communities that need support, not just speak about change, but actively be part of it. As an artist, I am also deeply committed to cultural restoration. I intend to use my platform to support efforts to rebuild the art gallery in Port Antonio that was damaged in a fire in 2022 and still remains inactive. I believe spaces like these are vital for creative expression, community identity, and opportunity.”

The opening number for the Miss Universe Jamaica Portland coronation was a dance routine featuring all the contestants who showed off their dance skills to a piece choreographed by Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts graduate Lorraine Welsh, accompanied by national award-winning drummer Aniya Brown. The rest of the evening’s entertainment featured Saxophonist Jamari Robinson while Kymani Burke serenaded the contestants as they paraded in their evening gowns. 

The Most Photogenic Award went to Zaniel Sleight, Most Poised was copped by Alyssa Francis, while the People’s Choice Award went to Janena Greaves. The Spirit of the Universe Award (Most Improved) was presented to Amaya Marson, Most Congenial went to Alrica Dailey, while the Multimedia Award was won by Francis. A cash prize of $100,000 was donated to the winner by Member of Parliament for Portland Western Daryl Vaz.

First runner-up, Francis, also shared that entering the pageant was an incredibly rewarding experience. “It wasn’t always easy, but every moment pushed me to grow and step more into the woman I aim to become. I’ve gained so much knowledge, formed meaningful connections, and created precious memories I’ll carry with me long after the competition. It was also incredibly fulfilling to know that the judges recognised my tenacity and were so impressed that they awarded me an automatic spot at nationals. I’m especially proud to be making history as the first contestant from a parish franchise to receive that honour.”

For Portland’s parish director, Shanique Rogers, the coronation was a complete success as it was a sold-out affair that held several firsts for her parish. “As the parish director, I produced a solo event that went flawlessly, and I’m thrilled to announce that my queen, Celene Hall, has advanced directly to the [national] stage. Additionally, my first runner-up, Alyssa Francis, was offered a special spot by the national directors to compete at the national finals. This is a testament to the calibre of talent we showcased, and I’m honoured to have brought two powerhouse competitors to this level. This is a monumental achievement for Portland, and I’m certain we’re going to bring the buzz and the spotlight right back here,” she said.

nicola.cunningham@gleanerjm.com

CAPTIONS

MissUniversePortlan05052026C00001: Miss Universe Jamaica Portland Celene Hall (centre) is flanked by second runner-up Shenequa Anderson (left) and first runner-up Alyssa Francis at the grand coronation on Saturday at Hotel Tim Bamboo in Port Antonio.

MissUniversePortlan05052026C00002: Miss Universe Jamaica Portland, 25-year- old Celene Hall.

MissUniversePortlan05052026C00003: Miss Universe Portland Parish Director Shanique Rogers (left) with new queen Celene Hall, Miss Universe Jamaica Portland 2026.

PHOTOS BY MKS PHOTOGRAPHY