The Miss Universe competition is one of the most prestigious beauty pageants in the world, bringing together women from all corners of the globe to compete for the coveted title.

The competition is not just about physical beauty, but also about intelligence, poise, and personality. Jamaica often proves to be a crowd favourite with elaborate and creative costumes modeled by enchantingly beautiful Jamaican women every year.

In the past, the small island nation has witnessed some of its very own – Yendi Phillipps, Kaci Fennell and Davina Bennett – rock the stage in their respective years and remain, today, women of note and influence locally and around the globe.

Apart from the glitz and glamour of the pageant, the Miss Universe organisation is also involved in various charitable causes. It works with various non-profit organisations to support initiatives aimed at empowering women and promoting education and healthcare.

Further proving that acquiring the title is not just a personal achievement for the winner, it also serves as a platform for the winner to advocate for various causes and make a positive impact in the world. 

Phillipps, after achieving first runner-up status, went on to become a television personality and now has a YouTube channel, Odyssey with Yendi, where she invites guest to speak about their own personal journeys and to encourage them along with the viewers.

Fennell has followed her passion for food as she continues to share beautiful meals with her followers on Instagram, and Bennett has branched out wonderfully into the world of fashion – having been featured on a billboard in New York.

Bennett also created the The Davina Bennett Foundation for the Deaf to spread awareness on behalf of the deaf community and break the barriers of communication.

The Miss Universe Jamaica pageant is an important part of the overall Miss Universe competition, and serves as a platform for young women to showcase their talents and represent their country on a global stage.

Auditions for Miss Universe Jamaica North East began on Saturday (March 4) at Mongoose Restaurant and Lounge in Ocho Rios, St Ann.

Shamique Simms, the Caribbean’s Next Top Model of 2017, was featured as the guest judge for the curtain call.

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