Portland parish is poised to make pageant history as twelve distinguished finalists prepare to compete for the inaugural Miss Universe Jamaica Portland crown. The official sashing ceremony, held at the scenic Bayview Esco Resort & Spa, formally inaugurated the contestants’ journey toward the May 2nd coronation at Hotel Tim Bamboo in Port Antonio.
Shanique Rogers, the Parish Director, expressed profound enthusiasm regarding the recruitment and preparation process. Contrary to typical inaugural event challenges, Rogers noted an overwhelming surge of interest even prior to official promotional campaigns. ‘The recruitment process was remarkably smooth. I was pleasantly astonished by the tremendous turnout for this first-time event,’ Rogers revealed in an exclusive interview.
The finalists embody widespread geographic representation across Portland, hailing from communities including Port Antonio, Snow Hill, Drapers, Buff Bay, Fruitful Vale, and Lennox District among others. From an initial casting pool of twenty aspirants, the selected twelve now embark on an intensive developmental regimen designed to transcend conventional beauty pageantry.
Rogers characterizes the program as a ‘transformative journey’ focused on holistic empowerment. Contestants are undergoing specialized training in speech refinement, catwalk technique, mental wellness, and interview preparedness. This developmental philosophy reflects Rogers’ core belief that ‘proper preparation prevents poor production.’
Sponsorship acquisition proved unexpectedly manageable through what Rogers describes as a ‘clear and strategic approach’ implemented alongside contestants. While minor organizational challenges emerged, the director confirmed effective resolution of all operational obstacles.
The ultimate victor will secure automatic qualification for the national Miss Universe Jamaica competition, marking Portland’s formal entry into Jamaica’s prestigious pageant circuit. This milestone event signifies both cultural celebration and the parish’s expanding influence within national entertainment landscapes.
The 2026 finalists and their official sponsors are:
– Janena Greaves (Miss Hailup Influencers App)
– Zariel Sleight (Miss Hunterz Club Ocho Ríos)
– Shenequa Anderson (Miss Bubble Chick)
– Alyssa Francis (Miss Transcendent Design Services and Solution)
– Makayda Foreman (Miss Aim Financial Corporation Ltd.)
– Paris-Jade Ming (Miss Portland Police Youth Club)
– Naomi Anderson (Miss Radical Love Gardens)
– Celene Hall (Miss ASAP Express Ltd)
– Onealia Williams (Miss Roberts Fitness Center)
– Alrica Daley (Miss Soldier Camp Restaurant)
– Amaya Marson (Miss Skyepro Xpress Ltd)
– Natasha Willis (Miss Seamart Groceries)