When Mystiq Flax Charles stepped onto the stage at the 2026 Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition, Jason Gardener said he immediately noticed more than just height and physique. The winner, he said, had “the look,” but also the personality, focus and determination that agencies search for when developing talent for the international fashion industry.

That impression has now led to Charles signing with JG Management USVI and Sandi Bass International under a mother agency agreement that could place the young Virgin Islands model on runways and casting calls in New York, and potentially beyond.

“It was a part of the prize that they could possibly be signed to us, but we saw how focused and determined he was and that he had a clear vision going into the competition,” Gardener said. “We truly appreciated that.”

Charles is expected to travel to New York City in July for agency go-sees, workshops and photo shoots as part of his professional development. Gardener said there has already been interest from agencies ahead of the trip, prompting preparations that include updated marketing materials, runway training and portfolio development.

“The main thing is agency go-sees appointments, photo shoots, workshops and enjoying NYC of course,” Gardener said.

Under the agreement, JG Management USVI and Sandi Bass International will serve as Charles’ mother agencies, a role that involves preparing models for placement with larger agencies in major fashion markets.

“A mother agent is responsible for developing the model — their look, body, walk, pictures and providing industry information for them to learn,” Gardener explained. “We also set up go-sees with agencies so they can meet him in hopes of signing with them.”

Gardener said Charles’ readiness for the next level comes down to more than appearance.

“He wants it and that’s important,” he said. “He’s of age and has a terrific support system. I look at the male models working today and truly believe Mystiq is ready.”

The Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition has spent more than a decade serving as a launching point for aspiring models across the territory. According to Gardener, several past finalists and winners have gone on to sign with major agencies and work in cities such as New York and Paris.

“This is a competition with proven results that I’ve seen over our 13 years,” he said. “Our winners and finalists have signed with major agencies, worked for major brands and have worked in New York and Paris.”

Gardener believes international exposure is critical for Virgin Islands talent, particularly as Caribbean models continue to gain visibility in the global fashion industry.

“Models from Jamaica have been booking major brands and we want our VI models to be on that level and more,” he said.

As Charles prepares for the next phase of his career, his training will include runway coaching, interview preparation, health and nutrition guidance and professional photo shoots. Gardener said the process is designed not only to help models secure agency representation, but also to prepare them for the demands of working internationally.

The long-term goal, according to Gardener, is to place Charles with a New York agency before expanding into other markets such as Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami, Paris or Milan.

For Gardener, Charles’ signing also represents something larger for young people watching from the Virgin Islands.

“That one day it can be me,” he said of the message he hopes aspiring models take from Charles’ success. “I hope they look at him as an inspiration and follow his journey.”

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Mystiq Flax Charles, winner of the 2026 Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition, has signed with JG Management USVI and Sandi Bass International, according to a May 6 announcement by Jason Gardener.

Gardener said in a Facebook post that Mystiq will be represented under a mother agency agreement, with the agencies responsible for guiding his career and securing international opportunities.

“Mystiq Flax Charles officially signed to JG Management USVI and Sandi Bass International. We are now his official Mother Agent that will guide his career,” Gardener stated.

Mystiq is scheduled to travel to New York City in July for placement opportunities as part of the next stage of his development in the fashion industry.

His signing follows his recent win at the 2026 Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition, where he secured the top title. According to earlier reporting by Jahphix Television, the competition showcased emerging talent from across the territory, with Mystiq standing out among contestants.

The Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition serves as a platform for aspiring models, offering exposure and opportunities to connect with regional and international agencies.

With his signing, Mystiq is expected to begin pursuing opportunities in international markets as agencies work to place him with global brands and campaigns.

Children darted across the field chasing after pigs, slipping and laughing as spectators cheered, while others pressed against wooden pens to get a closer look at rabbits, chickens and turtle doves at the Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition and Market at the Festival Grounds.

The second day of the event unfolded as a community gathering, with families moving between animal displays, food stalls and activities designed to bring the Territory’s agriculture and fisheries sector to life. Nearby, pigs rolled in the mud, while cages of parakeets and small animals drew steady attention from younger visitors.

Bouncy castles, games and competitions kept children occupied throughout the day, including a greased pig contest and other scheduled activities. Market vendors displayed baskets of locally grown produce — from eggplant to seasoning crops — alongside handmade crafts, while the scent of roasted corn and traditional dishes filled the air.

Live performances, including steel pan music, dance and cultural showcases, continued into the afternoon, alongside demonstrations and competitions such as watermelon and hot dog eating contests, reflecting both the agricultural focus and cultural character of the event.

The public activities followed the official opening ceremony held a day earlier on Friday, April 10, at the Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, where farmers and fishers from across the Virgin Islands were formally recognized for their contributions to the sector.

Awards were presented by Premier and Minister responsible for Agriculture and Fisheries, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, to recipients including Moviene Fahie, Ghansam Singh, Wilbert “Isha” Chinnery, Henrietta Wheatley, Bryan Hodge, Godwin Callwood, Daniel Cline, Eldon Young, Jahnai Caul, Adam Turbe, Kareem Rivera, Elton Gordon, Dean Soares and Ishmael Michael Collins.

In remarks at the ceremony, Dr. Wheatley said the exhibition reflects both the Territory’s heritage and its future direction.

“This year’s theme, ‘Farming the Land, Fishing the Seas, Nourishing Lives and Legacies,’ speaks directly to who we are as Virgin Islanders,” he said. “It reminds us that the work of producing food is not only an economic activity — it is a cultural inheritance, a source of pride, and a foundation for our resilience as a people.”

He said the displays throughout the exhibition demonstrate the Territory’s capacity to strengthen local food production.

“These displays are more than exhibits; they are evidence of our capability, our creativity, and our potential to feed ourselves,” the Premier said.

Dr. Wheatley also outlined government initiatives aimed at expanding the sector, including land allocation at Paraquita Bay, development of an agriculture and fisheries complex, and a fisheries landing site at the Omar Wallace Hodge Fishermen’s Wharf. He further announced that 35 farmers and fishers were approved in the first round of the Agriculture and Fisheries Grant Programme, receiving a combined $388,826.66 from 143 applications.

“I encourage families, restaurants, and businesses across the Territory to buy local and eat local,” he said.

Acting Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Dr. Lavon Chalwell-Brewley, said the event highlights the people behind the sector.

“Today, we pause to not only celebrate produce, products, and progress — but most importantly, to celebrate people,” she said.

The Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition and Market continues through April 12, combining public engagement with efforts to strengthen awareness of agriculture and fisheries across the Virgin Islands.

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