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:
Crime/Police
Tensions Flare as Parents Confront Elmore Stoutt High School Staff Over Contraband Crackdown
PHOTO: Confiscated items displayed in a slideshow at the recent ESHS PTA meeting, highlighting ongoing security concerns.
A crackdown on contraband at Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) has sparked heated confrontations between parents and school officials, with administrators raising concerns about aggressive behavior from guardians and a troubling rise in prohibited items on campus.
In a letter sent to parents on February 20, Principal Vanessa Garraway revealed that routine searches at the school uncovered a significant amount of contraband and illegal substances among students. The alarming findings prompted stricter policies and the involvement of School Resource Officers from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF). However, instead of cooperation, some parents have responded with hostility.
“We have seen an increase in parents arriving at school and behaving aggressively towards teachers and administrators,” the letter stated. “This type of behavior will not be tolerated.”
The issue of contraband at the school has been growing, and the administration is now taking a tougher stance. Effective February 24, students caught with prohibited items will not only face confiscation but will also be sent home immediately, with an accompanying suspension. Parents will be required to collect their child in such cases.
“We need parents to do more,” Garraway urged in the letter. “It is your responsibility to check your child’s belongings before they leave for school and have open conversations about the importance of following school rules and making positive choices.”
In response to the escalating situation, School Resource Officers have been stationed on campus to curb violent incidents, monitor student behavior, and enforce discipline. Their presence aims to deter misconduct, particularly in light of growing concerns over students making threats, whether serious or in jest. The school has made it clear that any such threats will be reported directly to the RVIPF.
“We are taking a no-nonsense approach,” Garraway wrote, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
The Ministry of Education has also weighed in, calling on parents to take a more active role in supporting efforts to maintain a secure learning environment. “Recent routine inspections continue to uncover prohibited items which pose serious risks to students’ health and well-being,” the Ministry said in a statement.
The Ministry reiterated that matters involving weapons, alcohol, and drugs will be referred to the RVIPF and the Social Development Department for further intervention. Additionally, officials reminded parents that mobile phones are not among the approved devices for use during the school day.
“We are reinforcing a Zero Tolerance Policy for any behavior or possession of items that compromise school safety,” the Ministry stated. “Our goal is to provide a safe and secure learning environment where students can focus on their education without unnecessary disruptions.”
As ESHS moves forward with these new measures, school officials and the Ministry of Education continue to uphold policies aimed at ensuring a structured and secure environment for all students.
ADVERTISEMENT:
Entertainment
Caribbean Baking Awards to Stream Live on JTV – Watch the Region’s Best Bakers Compete
Some of the best bakers from across the Caribbean are gearing up for the Caribbean Baking Awards (CBA), a two-day event celebrating creativity, skill, and the flavours that make Caribbean baking unique. The competition will be streamed live on Jahphix Television (JTV), so viewers from across the region and beyond can watch the action as it happens.
Bakers from across the Caribbean will go head-to-head in various categories, putting their skills to the test in front of expert judges. The competition will feature teams from:
- Virgin Islands (US) – Team Hibiscus Sweets
- Trinidad and Tobago – Team Trini Cakes Revellers & Team Flavour Masters Possé
- Jamaica – Team Sweet Success & Team The Dynamic Duo
- Antigua and Barbuda – Team The Glass Jar & Team Sweet Art 268
- Virgin Islands (BVI) – Team Bombshell
- Dominica – Team Donmnik Dou
- Guyana – Team Sweet Secrets
- Barbados – Team Bimstars
- Saint Lucia – Team Fruit Boss
The event takes place on February 21-22, featuring live baking, expert judging, and special guest appearances. Chef Kareem Brooks from Saint Martin will be one of the judges, while hosts Julie Mango and Ricky “Daphox” Bertie will keep the energy high throughout the competition. The celebration will wrap up with an After Party on February 22, featuring a live performance by Onyan and the 3 Cylinder.
Viewers can watch live on JTV and be part of the excitement as bakers compete for top honours.
Tickets to attend in person are $10. Secure yours today and don’t miss out!
For more details and to watch the live stream, visit https://tinyurl.com/CBAwithJTVchannel55
Lesley and Lestene Maduro of LSL Bakery in Virgin Gorda will be among the bakers competing at the Caribbean Baking Awards, set to take place in the British Virgin Islands.
LSL Bakery, a well-known establishment in Virgin Gorda, has been serving pastries, cakes, and other baked goods for years. Founded as a family business, it has grown into a recognised name in the local culinary scene.
The Caribbean Baking Awards bring together top bakers from across the region, with teams representing the British Virgin Islands, the US Virgin Islands, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Barbados, and Guyana. The competition includes categories such as Best Buttercream Cake, Rising Star, Cake Hero, and Best Cupcakes.
The awards ceremony will culminate in the Masquerade Awards Gala Dinner on Saturday, 22 February, at 5:00 PM at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Road Town, Tortola.
The event will bring together bakers, industry professionals, and guests to celebrate Caribbean culinary craftsmanship.
Voting for the awards opened on 7 September 2024, allowing the public to support their favourite bakers.
The event will also be streamed live on Jahphix Television (JTV).
Unable to attend the event in person? Enjoy the two-day action by securing your tickets for just $10. Click the link below to purchase.
Flavor Masters Possé Takes Trinidad and Tobago’s Flavors to the Caribbean Baking Awards
Tensions Flare as Parents Confront Elmore Stoutt High School Staff Over Contraband Crackdown
Caribbean Baking Awards to Stream Live on JTV – Watch the Region’s Best Bakers Compete
-
Crime/Police2 weeks agoPolice Arrest Three in BVI Firearms Crackdown; One Charged with Possession
-
Uncategorized2 weeks agoOne Injured as Masked Gunmen Open Fire near Greenland Football Field
-
Uncategorized5 days agoBVI Man Fatally Shot in Anguilla; Police Investigate Homicide
-
Uncategorized2 weeks agoGunman Arrested in Fatal Shooting of BVI Native Over Parking Dispute
-
Crime/Police1 day agoTensions Flare as Parents Confront Elmore Stoutt High School Staff Over Contraband Crackdown
-
Uncategorized1 week agoIntruder Breaks into One Mart East End, Police confirm
-
Crime/Police4 days ago
BVI Native Trevor Hughes’ Fiancée Badly Beaten in Deadly Bronx Parking Dispute
-
Uncategorized2 weeks agoRVIPF Refutes Allegations of Physical Confrontation Between Acting Commissioner and ACP Trevillion