Saint Lucia’s Shan Lucien won the prestigious Jaycees Queen Pageant held in Antigua and Barbuda last weekend, taking the title that Saint Lucia last won 39 years ago, in 1985.
The Jaycees Queen Pageant is renowned as a premier showcase of Caribbean beauty and talent.
The event is in its 61st year and is the highlight of Antigua’s carnival celebrations. This year’s pageant featured eleven delegates from Dominica, Antigua & Barbuda, the British Virgin Islands, Grenada, the United States Virgin Islands, Saint Lucia, St. Kitts & Nevis, Guadeloupe, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and Haiti.
Under the theme ‘Beauty Unbroken,’ the contestants first appeared in vibrant national and cultural costumes. The competition then moved through the interview, swimwear, talent, and evening wear segments.
The event celebrated the strength and resilience of Caribbean women and highlighted the contestants’ talents. The show lasted over four hours, culminating in the announcement of the top three places and various category awards.
Lucien also received awards in various categories, including Most True to Theme, Best Talent, Best Modeling in Evening Wear, and Best Evening Wear.
In speaking with local media, she expressed her surprise and gratitude, noting that the experience was new and had exceeded her expectations.
Minister for Culture and Creative Industries, Dr Ernest Hilaire, celebrated Lucien’s achievement, stating, “Shan Lucien, our 2024 National Carnival Queen, has given us every reason to be a ‘damn proud Lucian!’ A history maker, Shan captured the 2024 Miss Jaycee’s crown—a feat last achieved in 1985! I hope this will inspire young ladies across the country and the region.”
Lucien’s mother, Priscilla Lucien, also shared her pride and joy, highlighting her daughter’s determination and resilience, saying, “You have made Saint Lucia proud.”
Miss Guadeloupe Kaena Rangasamy won Miss Photogenic, Miss Grenada Amonai Francis took Best Interview, and Miss Antigua Desrie Markham was awarded Best Swimwear.
The final results were:
Second runner-up: Miss Grenada Amonai Francis
First runner-up: Miss Antigua Desrie Markham