Adacia Adonis is making waves as she reigns over the 70th Emancipation Festival Celebrations as Miss British Virgin Islands 2024.

Reflecting on her achievement, Adacia expressed a deep sense of pride. “Not only has my hard work and dedication paid off, but I feel honoured to be a representative of the Virgin Islands. I still feel a little in awe; however, I’m mostly overjoyed.”

Her inspiration to enter the pageant stemmed from a sense of urgency. “Honestly, one of the driving factors was my age! With the pageant having an age limit of 27, I didn’t want to live a life of regret. This pageant allows one to showcase talent and create positive change in the community. My biggest supporter has been my sister, Kesha Adonis, who encouraged me to enter this year, and I couldn’t have done it without her.”

The journey to the crown wasn’t without its challenges. “I faced immense pressure to perform well and meet societal expectations,” Adacia recalled. “Dealing with criticism from peers was emotionally taxing, but I learned to pray for peace of mind before each practice. I also limited my social media use to protect my mental state.”

Adacia is passionate about raising awareness for endometriosis, a cause close to her heart. “My platform, ‘From Pain to Purpose: Raising Endometriosis Awareness in Our Community,’ aims to advocate for women suffering in silence,” she explained. “I plan to partner with organisations like W.I.N to provide resources and educate young girls about prevention.”

Her crowning moment remains unforgettable. “I am a firm believer in prayer and manifesting my future, but nothing prepared me for the emotions I felt being crowned,” she said. “The crown is heavy, but it symbolises carrying the weight of the people of the Virgin Islands.”

In addition to the title, Adacia won awards for Best Swimsuit, Best Evening Wear, and Best Intellect. “Preparing for the swimsuit category required intense training and discipline,” she noted. “I also collaborated with renowned designer Carlos Alberto for the evening wear, ensuring that every detail was perfect.”

As she balances her responsibilities as queen with personal and professional life, Adacia emphasises the importance of setting boundaries. “It’s vital to maintain healthy relationships while being an active queen,” she stated.

Her advice for next year’s contestants? “Keep God and supportive people close. Without prayer and encouragement, it’s easy to become discouraged.”

With a dazzling smile and a heart full of passion, Adacia is eager to represent her beloved islands both regionally and internationally.

She recently represented the BVI at the Miss Jaycees Queen Show in Antigua, an experience she found valuable despite not placing. “I faced technical issues, and there were a few challenges, but I handled them with poise and class. Challenges are inevitable, but it’s how we rise above them that defines us. This was an experience like no other,” she shared. “I enjoyed meeting other delegates and gaining exposure to the international pageant scene.”

As the first Miss BVI International, Adacia understands the significance of her role. “I plan to showcase the BVI as the sailing capital of the Caribbean, celebrating our vibrant culture through traditional attire, music, and dance,” she affirmed.

Beyond her reign, Adacia aspires to become a solicitor and eventually open a law firm with her sister. “I want to be a voice for other women and advocate for causes close to my heart,” she said.

Adacia Adonis is ready to embark on her journey as Miss British Virgin Islands 2024, embodying the spirit of her community while inspiring future generations of young women to follow in her footsteps.