The ultimate model boot camp is winding down as scores of fresh-faced contenders from across the island set their sights on the top prize for the Caribbean Model Search (CMS) 2012. The Jamaica Fashion Model, Petite Jamaica Fashion Model, Male Face of Jamaica, and Full-Figured Fashion Model titles are up for grabs when the contestants make their last strides in the CMS finals, set for Saturday, November 18, 2012, at The Wyndham Kingston hotel.

PREPARATION BEGAN IN SUMMER

Since summer, the contestants have been engaged in an exciting series of activities, including pre-competition shows at Pulse's Studio 38. To ensure the new faces are ready for their final showdown, Pulse's premium glam squad has been tasked to create individual signature looks, host vigorous grooming sessions, tone bodies at the gym, rearrange diets and adjust attitudes.

To aid in boosting morale and to kick things competitively up a notch, winners of the pre-competitions shows have had their photos mounted on the famed Pulse billboard facing Trafalgar Road, on which Pulse superstars Jeneil Williams, Nell Robinson, Jaunel McKenzie and Oraine Barrett have all previously appeared.

For the CMS class of 2012, the tears have been many and spirits have been shaken. However, the triumphs have outweighed the lows and the young men and women are ready for the defining moment that is to come. With the winners of the preliminary competitions already having an edge over their counterparts, and the realisation that there will only be one winner from each category, the anticipation for the finals is at an all-time high.

THE HISTORY OF CMS

Pulse's Caribbean Model Search has been staged annually since 1982, with the search extending across the Caribbean region in 2002. Since its groundbreaking introduction, Pulse has successfully developed a catalogue of winners who have all successfully made a name in international modelling, starting from the Caribbean Model Search. From Kimberley Mais to Sunna Gottshalk, Angela Neil to Jeneil Williams, the roster is vast and varied.

And the tradition continues as all of last year's winners (Fiona Davis, Jamaica Fashion Model; Ameala Kirlew, Petite Jamaica Fashion Model; Adam Fernandez, Male Face of Jamaica; and Jessica Myers, Full-Figured Fashion Model) get set to take their shot at international careers.