The seven delegates competing in this year’s National Carnival Queen Pageant – a signature event of Saint Lucia’s 71-year-old carnival traditions – were formally paired with their sponsors during a glittering sashing ceremony at Sandals Grand Beach Resort on Wednesday evening.
The event marked a pivotal moment for the contestants, who were serenaded by reigning Carnival Queen and Miss Jaycees Shan Lucien before receiving their sponsored sashes. The delegates – Emerle Tisson, Kertina Oculi, Hadassah Romulus, Ziggy Vitalis, Kittle Symphorien, Shernia Phillip and Tatiana Clovis (in order) – also drew their positions for the upcoming competition.
Tamara Gibson, head of the Carnival Planning and Management Committee (CPMC), highlighted the ceremony’s significance: “The draping of a sash with your brand signifies an investment in the development of these bold, talented, socially aware young women. You are fueling dreams and amplifying voices that carry messages addressing critical issues within our society.”
Gibson praised the pageant as exhibiting the best parts of Lucian culture and artistry: “It is a combination of music, old mass, pageantry and grand costumes, all with a touch of beauty, elegance and grace. It is Lucian culture at its finest in all its flair.”
She emphasised the dual focus on cultural preservation and sustainability, noting initiatives like tree planting, school visits and literacy programmes.
“It is more than beauty, it is about touching lives and making the world a greener, better place,” she said.
Trevor King, chairperson of the pageant planning committee, teased an evolved competition this year.
“Expect bolder artistic expression and a renewed focus on culture and storytelling,” he said. “Our team is committed to delivering not just a show but an experience that reflects the evolution of pageantry in Saint Lucia.”
King described the delegates as “perfectly imperfect” – unique young women on a journey of “self-discovery, discipline, and transformation.”
Donalyn Vittet, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, praised the sponsors’ commitment and congratulated the delegates.
The 2025 contestants and their sponsors are:
- Emerle Tisson – Miss Bank of Saint Lucia
- Kertina Oculi – Miss JP Chenet
- Shernia Phillip – Miss Duty Free Point Seraphine
- Tatiana Clovis – Miss Saint Lucia Tourism Authority
- Hadassah Romulus – Miss Dazzle Magazine
- Ziggy Vitalis – Miss Caribbean Galaxy Real Estate
- Kittle Symphorien – Miss Sugar Beach – A Viceroy Resort
Each delegate was presented with gifts and serenaded by singers Michael Robinson and Everton J and guitarist Kyle Ernest.
The National Carnival Queen Pageant will take place on Saturday, July 5, at the Pavilion in Rodney Bay.
