TOKYO, Japan — Jamaican representative Shanté Jarrett secured a prestigious Top 20 placement at the 63rd Miss International pageant concluded Thursday evening in Tokyo, marking another significant achievement for the Caribbean nation in the global beauty competition.
The 24-year-old criminology student from Montego Bay captivated audiences with her poised runway presentation, showcasing exceptional skills in both the swimsuit and evening gown segments. Jarrett’s stunning blue evening dress and elegant swimwear presentation earned particular admiration from local Japanese fans during the glittering event at Tokyo’s Grand Prince Hotel.
Colombia’s Catalina Duque, 26, ultimately claimed the coveted crown from a competitive field of 80 international contestants. The top five finalists included representatives from Zimbabwe (first runner-up), Bolivia (second runner-up), Indonesia (third runner-up), and the Philippines (fourth runner-up).
This achievement represents Jamaica’s fourth placement in the pageant’s history, continuing the legacy of previous titleholders Israel Harrison (Top 8 in 2022), Denise Thompson (Top 15 in 1987), and Michelle Williams (Top 15 in 1988). Other nations reaching the Top 20 semifinals included Japan, Sri Lanka, India, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Angola, and the Netherlands.
The Miss International Jamaica organization celebrated Jarrett’s accomplishment through social media channels, sharing performance videos with the caption: ‘We made the TOP 20! Shanté giving it her 100 percent in the swimsuit performance on stage. What an incredible milestone, made possible through your unwavering love and support.’
Beyond her pageant aspirations, Jarrett is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice. Her official profile describes her as ‘a vibrant member of Jamaica’s tourism ecosystem’ who embodies ‘both elegance and empathy.’ As Miss International Jamaica, she champions the mental wellness initiative ‘Her Wellness, Our Future,’ promoting mental health awareness for women and girls globally.