J’Seanna Barnes, 15, born Feb. 2, 2010, is entering the Miss Teen British Virgin Islands 2025 pageant as a contestant focused on creativity, empowerment, and community advocacy. The daughter of Jeron Barnes and Seanelle Jones, she is a student at the Virgin Islands School of Technological Studies, where she has spent the past year studying cosmetology.
Barnes said her studies have shaped both her skills and ambitions. “I discovered my passion for enhancing beauty through hair, skin, and nail care,” she explained. “Exploring hairstyling, skincare, makeup application, and nail design has strengthened my desire to uplift others through the power of self-confidence.”
Looking ahead, Barnes plans to continue her education at the University of the Virgin Islands after graduating in 2027, pursuing a degree in Business Management with a concentration in Marketing. “I envision establishing my own brand in the beauty and wellness industry—one that highlights style and elegance while inspiring empowerment and self-expression across my community and beyond,” she said.
Barnes’ long-term goal is to become a successful entrepreneur in cosmetology, developing a line of health and beauty products celebrating Black health and beauty. “My focus is on creating high-quality solutions that empower individuals to embrace their natural elegance with confidence,” she said.
Her pageant platform, Family Before Guns (FBG), addresses the effects of gun violence on families and communities. “Too often, the effects of firearms ripple far beyond the individual, leaving families and communities shattered,” Barnes said. “Through advocacy, awareness, and education, I aim to highlight these real-life consequences and remind others that protecting families must always come before violence.”
Beyond her studies and advocacy, Barnes enjoys the symbolism of her favorite colors, blue and purple. “Blue reflects calmness, trust, and serenity, while purple speaks to my spirit—it is bold, royal, and full of grace,” she said. She also dreams of traveling to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, where she hopes to explore both culture and natural beauty.
Barnes’ combination of creativity, academic focus, and social advocacy positions her as a contestant committed to personal growth and meaningful impact. “This pageant is not just about competition—it’s a chance to use my skills and voice to inspire others,” she said.