By Spokesman Newsroom
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 1st August 2024)- Miss St. Kitts and Nevis, Desnarine Hanley, demonstrated the true spirit of resilience and mental fortitude in a stunning recovery after a slip and fall onstage at the Miss Jaycees Queen Show, held on Wednesday 31st July 2024 at Carnival City at the Recreation Grounds in the neighbouring island of Antigua.
The pageant’s 61st production, staged under the theme ‘Beauty Unbroken’, saw participation from eleven (11) countries across the Caribbean region including host country Antigua and Barbuda. Of note, Hanley not only recovered in true ambassadorial spirit but also embodied her passion in being an advocate for maintaining proper mental health practices.
The reigning St. Kitts-Nevis National Carnival Queen quickly rose to her feet following her fall during the group opening number segment, all smiles and continuing gracefully, waving the national flags while wearing her patriotic outfit, without missing a beat-a testament to resilience and poise.
Through her graceful recovery and unwavering smile, Hanley showcased the importance of mental resilience, championing a message that resonates far beyond the pageant stage. To this end, the young beauty is being applauded for her actions in underscoring the critical narrative of ‘Beauty Unbroken’, making her performance unforgettable for many spectators and contestants alike.
In her introductory speech, Hanley spoke about the twin-island state known for its breathtaking landscape. “I embody the beauty and grace of my twinisland paradise! Help me celebrate the unique charm of this Caribbean gem!,” she expressed.
Her jamming tune was the patriotic hit ‘Area Code 869’ by Nu Vybes Band International (also known as Sugar Band). The pageant was streamed live on social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube. The crown ultimately went to Shan Lucien from St.
Lucia, who swept several awards, including Most True to the Theme, Best Talent, Best Modeling in Evening Wear and Best Evening Wear. First runner-up Desrie Markham from host country Antigua and Barbuda secured Best Swimsuit and award for Miss Congeniality, while the second runner-up, Amonai Francis from Grenada, won Best Interview.
Kaena Rangassamy, representing Guadeloupe, was honored with the Miss Photogenic award. The other six country contestants were British Virgin Islands, United States Virgin Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Haiti and Dominica.
In other related pageant news, Miss St. Kitts and Nevis, Desnarine Hanley is expected to represent the Federation in the First Federal Miss Caribbean Culture Pageant slated for Monday 5th August in Nevis as part of the Culturama festival.
Front Page Image:Miss St. Kitts and Nevis Desnarine Hanley (the reigning National Carnival Queen seen while giving her patriotic introductory speech during the opening number for the 2024 Miss Jaycees Queen Show held on Wednesday 31st July 2024 (Screen via Youtube/ABSTVAntigua)
