Portland’s MUJ contestants set for May 2 coronation

Twelve women have been selected for the Miss Universe Jamaica Portland Grand Coronation on May 2 at Hotel Tim Bamboo in the parish.

Ranging in age from 19 to 36, Shanique Rogers, Miss Universe Jamaica parish director for Portland, told The Gleaner that the contestants include a diverse set of professionals — from entrepreneurs to teachers.

“This year’s Portland delegates really do represent a beautiful mix of backgrounds, talents, and personalities. I think they capture a real sense of the parish’s spirit. There is so much creativity and potential in this group,” said Rogers. “We also had representatives in unique fields like quantity surveying, as well as biotechnology and plant biology. This wide range of experiences really brings a rich diversity to the group.”

She shared that she was impressed with the young women who showed up for casting on February 21. “The casting call went exceptionally well. I was truly impressed by the enthusiasm and confidence of the women who auditioned. They came prepared, ready to perform, and eager to embrace the opportunity, which made the selection process exciting. Approximately 20 women auditioned, and what truly stood out was their confidence, authenticity, and readiness. This year’s applicants came with purpose. They were not only well-presented but were also articulate and driven, which made the selection process both inspiring and competitive,” said Rogers.

Sashing for the parish took place on March 21 at the Bay View Eco Resort and Spa in Port Antonio. Since the sashing ceremony, the contestants have been making great progress as they prepare for the grand coronation. “They’re really honing their skills in areas like public speaking, stage presence, and personal branding. They’re also dedicating time to fitness, wellness, and community service projects, ensuring they’re well-rounded and ready for the big night,” she shared.

Rogers is preparing the contestants for much more than excelling at the national competition. The winner will also serve Portland as its reigning parish queen. “The woman who earns the Portland crown needs to be a working queen; someone who understands this isn’t just a title, but a real responsibility. We want a genuine leader — someone who works tirelessly, engages with the community, and embodies the values of Miss Universe Jamaica. This is a job, and we need a queen who is ready to put in the work every step of the way. Having said that, Portland will be a strong contender because she will be prepared, confident, and ready to represent Portland with pride. We’re aiming for excellence, and this will be a working queen who is ready to win,” she said.

A former pageant contestant, having competed since she was a teenager, Rogers shared that she took up the mantle as parish director for Portland because she wanted people to recognise that the parish is much more than pristine beaches and great jerked pork. “I was inspired by my love for Portland and the belief that this parish is a hidden gem. The national directors actually reached out to me, seeing something in me as a leader, and asked me to take on this role, which I saw as a powerful opportunity to create a platform where women could thrive. Rain or shine, Portland is divine,” she said.

Pageantry, she emphasised, is something she has loved from a young age. “I was first runner-up in my high school pageant, and from there, my passion just grew. After high school, I became a personal trainer in local pageantry here in Portland, offering training in speech, stage presence, and [walking]. I also served as the pageant coordinator for a local Portland pageant for two consecutive years, mentoring young women along the way. Because I was a contestant myself, I’m able to see both sides. I understand the journey from being on stage to now leading as a director. After that, I was first runner-up in Miss Portland Festival Queen 2014, and then I reached the semi-finals of Miss Universe Jamaica 2024. I’ve continued mentoring, and my motto is, ‘Proper preparation prevents poor production’. This principle drives every step of my leadership.”

nicola.cunnigham@gleanerjm.com