By Claudia Gardner:
Beauty, brains and boundless ambition are taking centre stage in Westmoreland Parish as 18 accomplished young women prepare to compete in the inaugural Miss Universe Jamaica Westmoreland 2026 coronation on May 23.
From university students and aspiring attorneys to entrepreneurs, hospitality professionals and community advocates, this year’s finalists are helping to redefine pageantry in western Jamaica — proving that today’s modern queen is as intellectually impressive as she is beautiful.
And, with the Miss Universe Jamaica franchise now operating at the parish level for the first time, organisers say Westmoreland is ready to emerge as a serious force on the national pageant stage.
Let’s meet the extraordinary 18:
Shamara Hurst, 18
Nature lover wth a creative spirit, Shamara Hurst is passionate about fashion, beauty and inspiring others. A certified nail technician and student at the HEART/NSTA Trust pursuing studies in Business Management, she hopes to travel the world while making a positive impact on people’s lives. Guided by the belief that everything happens for a reason, Shamara embraces both challenges and successes as opportunities for growth, learning and self-discovery.
Regina McLean
Regina McLean is a creative strategist, marketing specialist and environmental advocate whose work blends storytelling, culture and global connection. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, she works within Jamaica’s luxury hospitality sector while also pursuing entrepreneurship and authorship. Regina is the founder of Roots2Reef, an initiative focused on mangrove restoration, marine preservation and climate advocacy across Jamaica and the Caribbean. Through pageantry, she hopes to amplify conversations surrounding sustainability, representation and purposeful leadership while inspiring others to evolve, create impact and serve their communities.
Christine Mulai, 28
A graduate of The Manning’s School, Christine Mulai currently works as an accounts and tax assistant while aspiring to pursue a degree in accounting and become a successful entrepreneur. Guided by resilience, empathy and hard work, she is passionate about building a strong foundation and making a positive impact through her journey. Christine believes perseverance and purpose can overcome any obstacle and hopes her experiences will inspire others to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
Alexsia Brady, 21
Purpose-driven and ambitious, Alexsia Brady is pursuing a degree in Psychology with aspirations of becoming a guidance counsellor and eventually an Army psychologist. Passionate about youth mental health, she strongly believes mental wellness should be prioritised in schools rather than treated as an afterthought. Alexsia is committed to being a voice for today’s youth and future generations, using her platform to encourage awareness, support and meaningful change in how mental health is viewed and addressed within Jamaican society.
Shaunalee Ervin, 21
Confident and purpose-driven, Shaunalee Ervin proudly represents Westmoreland with grace, resilience and ambition. Passionate about fashion and business, she uses creativity and confidence as tools for self-expression and empowerment. Having overcome personal challenges that strengthened her character, Shaunalee is grounded in self-belief, growth and determination. She aspires to build a successful career in business while using her voice and experiences to uplift and inspire others navigating their own journeys through life.
Mykhal Anglin
Mykhal Anglin embodies confidence, poise and compassion, believing true beauty is reflected through character, service and impact. As a mother, she credits parenthood with teaching her strength, patience and unconditional love — qualities that continue to shape her leadership and outlook on life. Passionate about healthcare and wellness, Mykhal advocates for accessible, compassionate care and healthier lifestyles within families and communities. Through this platform, she hopes to inspire greater awareness surrounding health, dignity and the importance of caring for others.
Gayon Gayle, 32
A graduate of University of the West Indies Mona with degrees in Psychology and Marketing, Gayon Gayle combines her passion for fashion, mental health advocacy and public speaking with a commitment to education and empowerment. Her modelling experience includes walking in New York Fashion Week, while her advocacy work has addressed domestic violence, mental health and entrepreneurship. Gayon is also dedicated to assisting students with special needs and disabilities. She believes authenticity and individuality are essential to building a meaningful legacy and inspiring positive change.
Brittany Solomon, 21
A graduate of St. Jago High School, Brittany Solomon holds certifications in customer service and practical nursing and currently works as a certified security officer with KingAlarm Systems. Guided by courage, discipline and determination, she plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management this September. Brittany believes fear should never prevent anyone from pursuing their goals and remains committed to rising with confidence, purpose and vision.
Nia Paige Matthews, 19
Outgoing, adventurous and confident, Nia Paige Matthews is currently pursuing an associate degree in Architecture and Construction at Montego Bay Community College, with plans to further her studies in Construction Management at the University of Technology Jamaica. Passionate about outdoor activities, family and community involvement, she also works alongside Lucid Fete promoters helping to organise events. Nia believes every space should reflect confidence, individuality and purpose, both in architecture and in life.
Kelly-Ann Barrett, 18
A proud 2024 graduate of Frome Technical High School, Kelly-Ann Barrett is currently pursuing nursing studies at the Caribbean Health and Hospitality Institute. Driven by compassion, faith and service, she believes true beauty is reflected through caring for others with love and purpose. Guided by the scripture Philippians 4:13, Kelly-Ann remains committed to turning her passion for helping others into a lifelong career while inspiring those around her through perseverance and grace.
Gabrielle Davidson, 20
Gabrielle Davidson is a second-year law student at the University of the West Indies with aspirations of becoming a family and corporate lawyer after completing studies at the Norman Manley Law School. Passionate about visual arts and music, she values creativity as a powerful form of self-expression. Gabrielle hopes to inspire others to recognise their full potential while celebrating individuals already making meaningful contributions within their communities.
Nicolette Gayle, 22
Nicolette Gayle proudly represents resilience, faith and authenticity. Passionate about dance and self-expression, she embraces creativity and confidence both on and off stage. Her academic background includes Social Sciences, Information Technology, Tourism, Communication Studies and Entrepreneurship, while her long-term goal is to pursue Psychology and become a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. Through pageantry, Nicolette hopes to encourage open conversations surrounding mental wellness while representing the strength, growth and evolving story of Jamaican women.
Thrisianna Coke, 18
A graduate of Hampton School, Thrisianna Coke is currently pursuing studies in Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management at Montego Bay Community College. With an impressive academic record of 21 CXC subjects, she is passionate about cooking, music, public speaking and the performing arts. Thrisianna serves as president of her school’s choir and culinary club and also represents her church as an International Youth Delegate across the Caribbean. Inspired by the loss of her father, she hopes to become a dietitian and food scientist promoting healthier lifestyles.
Ashley Gardner, 22
Ashley Gardner is a final-year Social Work student at Northern Caribbean University and a Dean’s List achiever driven by a passion for helping others and creating meaningful impact. Throughout high school, she held numerous leadership roles including Head Girl, Peer Counsellor and Prefect. Ashley is also the founder of Lipgloss_Core and aspires to build multiple successful businesses. Guided by confidence and determination, she believes self-belief is essential to achieving success in every area of life.
Annalicia Russell
At 33, Annalicia is the pageant’s eldest. An aesthetician and makeup artist whose pageantry journey began behind the scenes, she worked with Miss Universe Jamaica contestants for two years before stepping confidently into the spotlight as a contestant herself. A devoted mother, wife and woman of faith, she is also a passionate advocate for miscarriage and pregnancy loss awareness — a cause deeply shaped by personal experience. Through resilience, compassion and authenticity, Annalicia hopes to empower women to embrace healing, strength and self-worth while proving that growth and purpose can emerge from life’s most difficult moments.
Tiffany Maragh, 25
Tiffany Maragh is a computer engineer and third-year student at the University of Technology Jamaica pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computing with a major in Information Technology. Passionate about empowering youth through technology, she encourages young people to embrace Artificial Intelligence as a tool for creativity, innovation and growth. Inspired by culture, nature and human connection, Tiffany is committed to uplifting others, helping them discover their potential and contributing to a more progressive future.
Cameron Willis, 22
Soft-spoken yet compassionate, Cameron Willis believes kindness, empathy and emotional well-being are essential to personal growth and healthy communities. Passionate about mental health advocacy, she values open conversations and creating spaces where individuals feel heard, supported and understood. Currently working as an Administrative and Operations Assistant, Cameron aspires to become a mental health nurse and continue serving others through people-focused roles centred on care, communication and compassion.
Roushanda Levy, 21
Roushanda Levy is a sales associate, fashion model and proud past student of William Knibb Memorial High School with aspirations of becoming an orthodontist and opening an animal shelter for stray animals. Passionate about fashion, swimming, fishing and cosmetology, she hopes to use her platform to promote body positivity, peace and awareness surrounding animal cruelty. Guided by perseverance and optimism, Roushanda encourages others to keep striving toward their dreams regardless of life’s obstacles.
