Sara Lawrence, Miss Crane Ridge Resort. One of the finalists in the 2006 Miss Jamaica World Beauty pageant. - Winston Sill / Freelance Photographer
It's that time of year again when we present the Miss Jamaica World contest beauties. The Gleaner, in the upcoming weeks, will run profiles of all the contestants in the 2006 Miss Jamaica World pageant. Fifteen girls are vying for the prestigious title and the opportunity to follow in 2005 winner Terri-Karelle Griffiths' footsteps. Today we present Sara Lawrence, Miss Crane Ridge Resort.
Name: Sara Lawrence
Vital Stats: 33-251/2-38
Height: 5' 9 1/2"
Weight: 132 lb.
How do you feel about Jamaica's performance in the pageant over the years?
SL: Our last Miss World was 1993. However, I don't think that looks badly on our performance in the pageant overseas, because I think we send girls with not only beauty but intelligence, with a warm personality, someone who embodies not only what Jamaica is but who Jamaicans are. So I am pretty pleased, especially with our immediate past Miss Jamaica. She was talking to us about her experiences in the pageant, how many friends she has made, about how people still value her and want to come to Jamaica just through meeting her.
Do you think beauty pageants are still relevant, and why?
SL: Yes, I do think they're still relevant. And I feel as though there is a misconception about beauty pageants. There is so much more to it than just beauty. You need someone with intelligence, someone who can speak to people and express herself and pretty much represent our country. You have sporting people representing Jamaica in their capacity and I feel that we should be represented in every way, in every positive way that we can. And for the girls who are there, it is an outlet to shine. Also, there are many things such as grooming, speech and diction, so that we all come out better people after the process.
What in your opinion is your best quality?
SL: My best quality would be my personality, or so I've been told. I just be myself and a lot of people gravitate towards me, and I get along with a lot of people.
How does this competition fit into your plans for the future?
SL: I've seen myself grow as a person so much. I want to be a medical doctor, so a lot of people are like 'why are you in a pageant?' I've learnt so much about my country, about people, where we've gone and the interaction has only bettered me as a person. So in everything, in social interactions, in the medical field I can see myself applying what I've learnt here.
Which of the mini competitions do you stand the best chance of winning?
SL: Talent. Because I enjoy dancing and I've done dancing before. I feel as though I can really let loose and be myself. Even if I say a poem or sing a song, I could crack or so. I don't think that's really possible with dancing.
Name three must-haves.
SL: I must have my Bible, I must have my laptop and a cellular phone.
Why should you win the title of Miss Jamaica World 2006?
SL: I have this unexplainable, profound love for this country, and the concept of being able to represent it is fascinating to me. I feel as though I am not only like a face but my personality and everything kind of wraps up with the spirit of Jamaica and Jamaican people.
