Tesi Johnson, Gleaner Writer
Miss Jamaica Florida, Kara-Ann Boyne. - IAN ALLEN/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
KARA-ANN BOYNE, 22-year-old student of Barry University in Miami Florida, where she studies graphic design and dance, was recently crowned Miss Jamaica Florida 2005. Ms. Boyne who is sponsored by Western Union, competed alongside 30 other contestants and after a few minutes in her company, it becomes quite clear why she was chosen to represent Jamaica as a cultural ambassador.
A poised young lady, Miss Jamaica Florida's radiant smile grabs the attention of those around her, and her eloquence keeps you riveted. She became interested in the competition as she saw it as an opportunity to represent young Jamaicans living in Florida.
A BIT NERVOUS
Though she was a bit nervous going into the competition, she says she had every confidence in herself as a worthy participant. As is expected, a lot of preparation goes into a competition of this nature. She says, "I had to prepare a talent piece - it was a dramatic modern dance to the song "Four Women" by Nina Simone. I came up with my own choreography, she said. Also each contestant had to choose a platform on which she would speak and answer questions.
"I chose Alzheimer's disease awareness, I had to research and study the topic."
FUTURE PLANS
Among her plans for the future Ms. Boyne intends to continue her work in raising awareness about Alzheimer's disease even after she has completed her reign. She describes other goals she hopes to achieve someday: "I hope to be involved with future pageants and help others to become cultural ambassadors. I enjoy modelling so I hope to pursue that as well. Some day I hope to open my own dance studio, also a graphic design firm."
For now though, the petite beauty is enjoying her reign and focussing on representing Jamaica as best as she can. "I would encourage young ladies of Jamaican heritage living in Florida to take part because it is a good learning experience and a great opportunity to represent your country."
