As the Miss OECS Pageant approaches, Saint Lucia’s representative Timiqua Deterville is preparing for more than just a competition. For her, the pageant is an opportunity to champion a cause close to her heart—easier travel within the OECS.
In an exclusive interview with St Lucia Times, she shared a bit about her journey, her aspirations, and the message she aims to bring to the regional stage.
Growing up in Mabuya Valley, Deterville developed a strong appreciation for community and the values instilled in her.
“It taught me respect, the value of time, and the importance of hard work,” she shared. “Gone are the days when it took a community to raise a child, but I’m grateful to have experienced those moments – the good old days.”
Deterville, a seasoned pageant competitor, has earned the title of Miss Mabuya Valley, first runner-up in Miss Independence, and first runner-up at the National Carnival Queen competition.
As she takes on this next regional challenge, she is using her platform to advocate for easier movement of people within the region.
Deterville believes that strengthening intra-regional travel can foster greater cultural appreciation.
“It costs more to travel internationally than to move between OECS countries,” she pointed out. “I believe there should be more avenues, like ferries, to make travel within our region easier. It’s important for us to experience each other’s cultures.”
With her experience in pageantry and her background in the tourism industry, Deterville feels well-equipped for the challenge ahead.
Having worked at Sandals Regency, Deterville has interacted with visitors from around the world, proudly showcasing the beauty of Saint Lucia. She sees the Miss OECS competition as another avenue to do that.
“This pageant is a chance to represent Saint Lucia regionally and internationally, and I’m ready for that responsibility,” she said.
Despite the challenges of balancing her career, pageant preparations, and personal life, the support she has received from her community, family, and friends has been a major source of motivation.
“Every time I feel tired, I remember the messages of support. The moment I open my phone, I see ‘you’ve got this’, ‘Saint Lucia has your back,’ and that keeps me going.”
For young women aspiring to enter the world of pageantry, Deterville offered this avice, stressing the importance of humility, hard work, and being open to change: “Be humble, be willing to accept constructive criticism, and understand the importance of time management. If you’re not ready to put in the work, it won’t work out. You have to be focused.”
With just one day to go before the big event in Dominica on Friday evening, Deterville is excited to represent her country and make her community proud.
“I’m looking forward to this challenge, and I’m ready to give it my all,” she said, eyes set firmly on the future.
Young lady, so much to advocate for and this is what you believe to be a cause? Who advised you on this? How about free medical surgeries and treatment for small children?
I’m backing this young lady’s vocal call for easier intra regional travel – a topic one does not hear from regional governments. They “mouth” it, but are doing nothing about it. So sad, that a beauty pageant contestant has to bring it out – loud and clear!!!