Local News
From Catwalks to Crowns: Jenna-Monét Queeley’s Journey to Miss New York USA 2024
Jenna-Monét Queeley, the former Fashionista USVI Top Model and VI Model of The year winner, found herself on a journey she never expected – the road to becoming a Miss New York USA State Finalist. “It all started with my family,” she chuckles, recalling their persistent encouragement to pursue the prestigious pageant world. “They’ve been planting the seed for years, nudging me toward Miss NY USA and beyond to the Miss Universe stage.” With time passing and life experiences accumulating, Jenna felt a shift within herself. “I realised I’ve done the groundwork. I’ve built my brand, completed my education, and strutted my stuff on countless catwalks as a fashion model. It was time for the next step.” So, with a twinkle in her eye and confidence in her heart, Jenna boldly decided to throw her hat – or rather, her crown – into the ring for the Miss NY USA 2024 title.
Preparing for such a grandiose event requires more than just physical beauty; it demands mental fortitude and intellectual sharpness. Jenna dives into her preparation routine, sharing, “I’ve been binge-watching past Miss Universe shows, studying the winners with a magnifying glass to understand what sets them apart. And of course, staying up-to-date on all things New York and the USA – you never know what tricky questions they’ll throw at you in the interviews!”
For Jenna, representing the state of New York is not just a title; it’s a badge of honour. “New York is more than just a state; it’s a melting pot of cultures, diversity, and dreams. It’s become my home, and I’m proud to carry its banner,” she exclaims. Her platform, Jenna-Monet Beauty, champions the #IREPRESENTBEAUTY movement, aiming to shatter society’s unrealistic beauty standards and promote self-acceptance and natural beauty. “I’m a girl’s girl,” she declares, “and I’m here to break the mold!”
Amidst the glitz and glamour of the pageant world, Jenna’s confidence is one of her best attributes. “What sets me apart?” she muses. “It’s my confidence and presence – I can light up a room without saying a word. But when I do speak, it’s with clarity, intellect, and a touch of sass!” Her secret to staying focused amidst the chaos? “Meditation,” she reveals with a wink. “It’s my secret weapon to keep calm and collected, no matter how crazy things get.”
As Jenna reflects on her journey, she recalls the most memorable moment – stepping back into the pageant world after a decade-long hiatus. “It’s been a wild ride, from being a spectator to now standing on stage as a finalist. Talk about a glow-up!”
Looking to the future, Jenna envisions her role as Miss New York USA as more than just a title; it’s a platform for change. “I want to be an ambassador for inner beauty and acceptance, starting with the mind,” she asserts. “Under the #IRepresentBeauty movement, I aim to empower young women to embrace their flaws and all and love themselves unapologetically.”
To those dreaming of stepping onto the pageant stage or pursuing their wildest dreams, Jenna offers sage advice: “Just do it! Don’t let fear hold you back. Life’s too short to wonder ‘what if’ – so go out there and chase those dreams!”
As the curtain closes on our Q&A with Jenna Monea Queeley, her message resounds loud and clear: “Embrace your uniqueness, love yourself fiercely, and always be your authentic self. That’s the true essence of beauty.” With a radiant smile and a heart full of hope, Jenna prepares to inspire others through her journey, leaving a legacy of self-love and empowerment in her wake. #IRepresentBeauty.
For updates and info about her journey, follow her on Instagram @JVIMODEL. To support her venture, please donate to her GoFundMe page:
In an inspiring act of generosity, Russ Roschman, an avid animal lover, marked his birthday in an extraordinary way—by dedicating it to the furry residents of the BVI Humane Society. Instead of accepting gifts, Roschman launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised an impressive $2,500 for the shelter.
Roschman spent the day with the shelter’s animals, earning the gratitude of staff and the community alike. The funds raised will be directed toward the running costs of the current shelter, providing vital resources to care for the animals.
The BVI Humane Society, in a heartfelt post, expressed their appreciation, calling Roschman an “amazing animal lover” and extending a “big furball thanks” for his kindness.
This act of selflessness shines a light on the ongoing needs of shelters like the BVI Humane Society, which rely on donations and community support to provide essential care for animals in need. Roschman’s gesture is a reminder of the impact individuals can make, one paw at a time.
The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2024, signed into law by Governor Daniel Pruce on November 1, introduces significant changes to the Territory’s immigration policies. Among the most notable amendments is the doubling of the residency requirement for individuals seeking Belonger status, extending the period from ten to twenty years.
The legislation also establishes an Immigration Appeals Board to handle challenges and disputes, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the transparency and accountability of the immigration process. Premier Natalio Wheatley described the amendments as a step forward in refining the system. “We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and equitab
Governor Daniel Pruce
le,” the Premier said in a statement.
While the new law introduces robust measures to regulate and manage immigration, it has drawn mixed reactions. One key point of contention is the lack of new pathways for children born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents. Critics argue that this omission leaves a gap in addressing a demographic often caught in legal limbo.
The amended law also tasks a newly created Quota Setting Committee with advising the Board of Immigration on annual quotas for residence and Belonger certificates. This ensures that quotas align with the Territory’s capacity and strategic objectives.
However, the law is not yet in effect. It will commence on a date to be announced by the Premier in the official Gazette. Applications submitted before this date will be processed under the previous legal framework, providing clarity for those already in the system.
The government has framed these changes as part of its broader strategy to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for the Virgin Islands. “These amendments are designed to support the Territory’s long-term goals while maintaining fairness for all residents,” a government statement emphasised.
Tola Radio VI 100.5 FM, known as “the people’s radio,” has been off the air for 14 days amidst a legal standoff with Caribbean Cellular Telephone Limited (CCT). Managing Director Floyd P. Burnett, also known as “Heritage,” is urging public support as the station navigates what he describes as a targeted attack on freedom of speech and locally-owned businesses.
Mr. Burnett alleges that despite meeting all payment requirements and deadlines, CCT refused to accept Tola Radio’s payment and later disabled the station’s broadcasting equipment. “They physically touched our equipment and locked them off, despite written legal letters asking and instructing it not to be done,” he stated.
The dispute follows CCT’s October announcement terminating its service agreement with the radio station. CCT clarified that Tola Radio could retain its services if it became a paying customer, but according to Burnett, his payment was rejected without justification.
The controversy escalated when Burnett claimed an attempt was made to have him arrested and charged with attempted murder. “The public was to wake up and hear the radio off along with hearing I was arrested and charged, but God is greater than man!” he said.
Efforts to secure an extension for relocating Tola Radio’s equipment were also denied, Burnett said. Additionally, an urgent injunction filed in the High Court was postponed by a visiting judge until November 22 without hearing any arguments.
The ongoing shutdown has left eight employees without income, caused significant financial losses, and breached client agreements. Burnett criticized government officials for their lack of action, accusing them of failing to address the issue despite the government being a major client of CCT.
“Like most problems facing the BVI, they can’t [find] no way to help us! Even though the government is the tower people’s biggest client,” Burnett remarked.
Burnett is calling on the public to boycott CCT in protest. “Plug out the phone, plug out the chip, don’t pay your bill! We need to make a statement to corporate BVI today!” he urged.
He framed the situation as a broader fight for “freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and freedom of information,” asserting that the attack on Tola Radio sets a dangerous precedent for other local businesses.
Despite the challenges, Burnett assured Tola Radio’s listeners and partners that the station will resume broadcasting soon. “We will be back on air shortly, hopefully before the day is out,” he promised.
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
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