PAGEANTS MERGED: One big show; bigger prizes

The three franchises in the territory have been merged to create one major pageant, said the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee.

The franchises merged as of May 16 are the Miss World BVI, Miss Universe BVI, and the Miss British Virgin Islands Pageant Committee.

The merged franchises now operate under the MISS BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS PAGEANT banner, with Janette Brin serving as chairperson, and Damion Grange of Miss World BVI serving as co-chairperson.

Alecia Hamm of Ms Universe BVI will help prepare the queen for the Ms Universe pageant.

Brin said: “We are very excited about the merger and the increased opportunity that participating young ladies now have as a result. Our competition continues to celebrate women from across the territory, who we hope to inspire to step out of their comfort zones and experience the amazing opportunities that the pageant offers.”

“Last year, we introduced our slogan the ‘Evolution of Pride, Beauty, and Culture’ as part of our mission to build on the legacy of Miss British Virgin Islands. This year, we seek to further define the title through the philanthropic efforts of Beauty with a Purpose,” Brin further said in a media release.

The pageant committee stated that this year’s show will see the winner wearing a custom-made Mi Amor crown made of crystals and Larimar gemstones, set in sterling silver and white gold. “She also receives a custom-made BVI Jade Stone ring from Samarkand, as well as a $30,000 educational grant from the Ministry of Education, a brand new 2017 Toyota Yaris, $5,000 cash, a Larimar Jewellery set from Mi Amor Jewellers, and other amazing prizes.”

The pageant committee further stated that the 1st Runner Up will walk away with amazing prizes, which include a BVI Jade Stone ring from Samaarkan, a $10,000 educational grant from the Ministry of Education, and $4,000 cash.

The 2nd Runner Up will walk away with $2,000 cash and other amazing prizes.

The pageant committee further said: “There will be an exciting line-up of pre-show activities starting with the official launch event on Sunday May 21st 4pm at the Tortola Pier Park. The entire public is invited to come out in support of this year’s contestants as they embark on their historic journey.”

“Later, on July 1, the committee will host a Swimwear Competition followed by a Crown Reception on July 20th. Final show night will be August 6th at the Multi-Purpose Gym. The move comes as the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee prepares to launch the annual Emancipation Festival Celebration in early June,” added the pageant committee.