Krista Henry, Staff Reporter
From left: Julie-Ann Ellis (first runner-up), Kaysia Johnson (Festival Queen 2006) and Anika Gray (second runner-up) pose at the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission's Festival Queen Coronation Show, held at Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, on Sunday. - WINSTON SILL/FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER
ON SUNDAY, Kaysia Johnson from Trelawny walked away with the title of Miss Jamaica Festival Queen.
She graced the stage, along with the 12 other parish queens, at the coronation held at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre.
Johnson was an obvious crowd pleaser, who answered knowledgeably on the effects and possible solutions of Westernisation. She expressed, "I'm very excited, it feels great to win. I'm looking forward to the year. My focus will be on Jamaica's youth, developing them into positive leaders, ambassadors for Jamaica."
She continues, "I looked on all the competitions and realised that this competition is not about beauty, but about being culturally aware and becoming ambassadors for Jamaica. I have the characteristics, I'm aware, poised and able," she said.
The most congenial prize went to Kenneiesha Newsome, Miss Ocho Rios; Kaysia Johnson from Trelawny won most culturally aware, while Julie-Ann Ellis, Miss Kingston and St. Andrew, won the prize for best performance and one year scholarship to Edna Manley College.
However, at the end of the night, despite being winners in their various parishes, only one woman could reign as queen. Third-place went to Miss St. Mary, Anika Gray, and second-place went to went to Kenneisha Newsome.
The competition presented a kaleidoscope of colours, intelligence and beauty as the 13 contestants graced the stage.
The contestants proved themselves apt in general knowledge, community involvement and cultural awareness, which was reflected in their performance.
After the talent section, the ladies strutted their stuff in gorgeous evening dresses. Designers included Uzuri, Decisions Designs, and Terri Nicholson.
Richie Stephens provided musical entertainment, taking the audience away with his voice. After which the sectional prizes were awarded.
