Maya Zareiah Venice Marcellin, 18, is competing in her first pageant as a contestant for Miss Teen British Virgin Islands 2025.
Born Jan. 9, 2007, she is the daughter of Stephen and Shornell Marcellin.
A graduate of Elmore Stoutt High School, Marcellin is currently pursuing an Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts at Hamilton Lavity Stoutt Community College. She said she sees pageantry as more than competition, describing it as a chance to strengthen her voice and serve her community.
“As a pageant contestant, one of my biggest goals is to use my platform to inspire others and make a meaningful impact in my community,” Marcellin said. “Through pageantry, I hope to grow as a leader and uplift others, turning this dream into a reality.”
Her platform, Eat Well, Move Well, Live Well, focuses on promoting a healthy lifestyle through dance, fitness, and nutrition. “By encouraging others to stay active, make balanced food choices, and embrace wellness, I aim to inspire my peers and community to live longer, stronger, and healthier lives,” she said.
Marcellin also spoke about her dual ambitions of becoming both a professional dancer and pastry chef. “Dance—particularly in styles such as ballet, contemporary, and modern—gives me the power to tell stories through movement, expressing passion, emotion, and grace,” she said. “Meanwhile, baking lets me bring happiness to others through sweet creations made with care.”
She added that she envisions launching a youth program promoting healthy living through physical activity and nutrition. “Whether performing on stage or creating in the kitchen, I am dedicated to perfecting my craft, following my dreams, and sharing my love for both art forms with my community and beyond,” she said.
This is Marcellin’s first pageant. Her favourite colour is yellow, which she said represents her “bright and cheerful personality.” Outside of her studies, she enjoys travelling, discovering new places, and relaxing with movies.
Since 2002, the Miss Teen British Virgin Islands pageant has empowered young women to embrace their culture, serve their communities, and represent the territory on regional and international stages. This year’s contestants, including Marcellin and Ms. J’Seanna Barnes, will compete for the opportunity to serve as teen ambassadors, champion causes, and inspire change throughout the Virgin Islands and beyond.
