Past Queens of Carnival recently met up with the 2012 delegates for a motivational life class.

Terri-Ann Richardson, Kirsy Rijo-Charles, Mekela Williams, Tasheka LaVann and Shalana George - Queens of Carnival 2003, 2004, 2005, 2007 and 2009 respectively, took time out to chat with the contestants about what they can expect from the journey ahead.

Richardson explained to the ladies that to win any competition one has to want it. “All of you are in this competition to win the title of Queen of Carnival 2012. You have to really want it and then you have to commit to it. Practice your talent in front of loved ones and have conversations about current issues with them to improve your interview skills. Also, keep fit and eat properly”.

Often said by pageant trainers, consistency gets you to the crown.

That was the message sent to the queen hopefuls by Williams. “You have to look, walk and act the part. You cannot do well in one segment and think it’s ok if you don’t in another. Most of the ladies who have won this show gave one hundred percent to every segment.

Pageantry is seen as a field of glitz and glamour, but with that comes the bad and ugly. The former queens spoke about gossiping and dealing with it. “The reality is that when Queen of Carnival comes around there are just a group of people who set out to try to tear you down. They say all manner of evil and spread lies. Just stay focus.”, explained Rijo-Charles.

The queens’ conversation with the delegates explored areas to include being ambassadors and role models in society, maintaining friendships in the group and how to prepare for each segment.

Speaking on behalf of the contestants was Daveile Payne-Abbott. She thanked the women, adding that to many who have watched them develop, they are still reigning. “You have created for us a path to really follow and grow not just in this competition but in life and for that we thank you.”

The session was conducted as the Queen’s Committee continues to transform the young ladies into cultural ambassadors while preparing them for the stage, come July 30th, 2012.

This year’s delegates, Payne Abbott, Teneisha Sebastian, Kimberly King, Andrena Athill, Alana Michael and Ranee Laronde will vie for the prestigious title of Queen of Carnival 2012 under the theme “Unleash Your Creativity”.

For more information please contact the following:

Tasheka Lavann
Communications Consultant
Tel: 732-8480
Email: tasheka.lavann@gmail.com