Queens: Miss St. Andrew High, Tanika Roberts (centre), flanked by first runner-up Gabrielle Lewis (left) and second runner-up, Atara O'Sullivan. - CONTRIBUTED
TANIKA ROBERTS, an articulate and self-confident 15-year-old grade 10 student, walked away with the coveted crown of Miss St. Andrew High School last Saturday at an event which rivalled the production of many of the current established beauty pageants.
Now in its fourth year, the pageant took place at the school's garden theatre and except for the delayed start, the highly exuberant crowd enjoyed the flawless production. The show opened with a well-choreographed dance by the 11 contestants followed by their appearance in casual wear by Elan for Women, Simkesh-Way Fashion and Tramps Fashion.
The young ladies then showcased their talent in speech, drama, dance, musical instruments and song, each item punctuated by screams of approval and thunderous applause. The formal wear segment saw the beauties parading in exquisite designs by Beautiful Brides and Mr. Tux. Each contestant was escorted on stage by male models in tuxedos. Some completed their statement with top hat and cane.
SCREAMS OF DELIGHT
There were more screams of delight when celebrated Jamaican crooner, Richie Stephens, made his surprise appearance to serenade the ladies before the announcement of the five finalists.
While the judges contemplated their decision, another popular headline entertainer, Wayne Marshall, unleashed some of his popular hits, engaging the audience in a cheerful sing-a-long.
When the judges presented their results, Tanika Roberts emerged winner, Gabrielle Lewis, first runner-up and Atara O'Sullivan second runner-up. Atara also won the prize for most congenial, while Gabrielle received the award for best stage presence. Other sectional prizes went to Davisha Hall, most aware, and to Julene Allen, best talent.
Compere Keeva Beach, also a teacher, ably guided the programme and the entire event was organised and executed by the committee, headed by the very efficient Marsha Watson, another teacher.
The pageant's primary objective is to promote a 'life more abundant', by making young ladies more aware of the contribution that they can make to school and community development, as they strive towards attaining their academic goals.
Contestants were required to participate in training exercises geared towards the holistic development, including grooming, deportment, general awareness and leadership qualities.
The queen must be a well-rounded ambassador exemplifying the theme for the school's 80th anniversary, 'Abundantly Blessed - The Legacy Continues'.
During her reign, Tanika is required to identify and implement a school or community project in collaboration with her club or society. This project may be ongoing, but must be approved by the Pageant's Committee.
