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Miss Guyana World: Delegate #3 Ruquayyah Boyer

Ruquayyah Boyer
Miss Guyana World Delegate #3 Ruquayyah Boyer

Platform: Breaking Barriers: The journey from homemakers to CEO

Biography: Twenty one year old Ruqayyah Boyer is an amalgam of international identities – born in Suriname to a Guyanese mother and a Surinamese father, she spent her first two years in the Dutch-speaking South American country before moving to Canada where she spent the next five years. Later on, Ruqayyah moved to her mother’s home country of Guyana here she has resided to this day.

This early experience as well as her dual heritage became the foundation for not only her bilingual abilities (Dutch/English) but a passion for global affairs. A second year International Relations student at the University of Guyana whose goal is a career in political sciences and law, preferably within the United Nations framework. Prior to this, this young Ambassador would have completed her two years of sixth form at the St. Stanislaus College, where she was a part of many extra curricular activities some of which included, Volunteering at the National Library, embarking on group activities through the Rotaract Club and also working her passion in the entertaining Arts.

In addition to her educational endeavours, Ruqayyah has had a stellar launch into the world of fashion and pageantry, Firstly partaking in the Miss Guyana talented teen pageant, going on to represent the land of many waters at the Miss Teen Universal and the returning with the experience of a lifetime and handily winning the Miss Linden Town Week 2010 – copping trophies for Best Talent, Evening Gown, Body Beautiful and Intelligence – before receiving top billing in fashion events like Guyana Fashion Week 2010, Roger Gary Fashion Show which was a part of the Miss Guyana Earth Pageant and also making an appearance in magazines such as Profiles 98 Edition and De Pulse which is yet to be released this year. Continue reading “Miss Guyana World: Delegate #3 Ruquayyah Boyer”

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Miss Guyana World: Delegate #5 Utieka John

Utieka John
Miss Guyana World Delegate #5 Utieka John

Platform: Women and education

Biography: Life is full of surprises and everything happens for a reason; whether good or bad. For every bad thing, expect something good and for every good thing, expect something GREAT! This motto supports my philosophy of life.

Born on the 18th of May, 1991 to Nicole Williams and Llewellyn John this Taurus Gem has grown to become a beautiful, confident, vibrant, energetic and self determined individual who finds comfort in helping young children and motivating others to achieve their goals. I possess a strong determination to distinguish myself from the ordinary and become a catalyst for change.

My formal education began at the Head Start Nursery School, then to Sacred Heart Primary School where I gained a position at Saint Joseph High School after writing the Secondary School Entrance Examination. After completing CSEC and graduating with distinction I attended the Bishops’ High School where I gained my Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Diploma. I am currently pursuing studies at the University of Guyana in History. This move takes me one step closer to fulfilling my desires making my life -long dream a reality. My dream and aspiration is to become an Attorney-at-Law in an effort to help to rid the world of injustice.

Apart from being an optimist and bursting at the seams with the love of life, I marvel in the joy of meeting and interacting with new persons and if chosen to represent Guyana would value the privilege of being able to see the world through different cultures. I possess an innate love for singing, dancing, modeling, meeting interesting people, reading romance novels, listening to music and hanging out with my friends. I try my best to be involved in community activities and enjoy helping my peers! My involvement in community activities has placed me among other individuals who believe in the greater good of seeing others excel. Continue reading “Miss Guyana World: Delegate #5 Utieka John”

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Miss Guyana World: Delegates #6 Siestra Allen

Siestra Allen
Miss Guyana World Delegate #6 Siestra Allen

Platform: Changing the Role of Teenage Girls

Autobiography: Blessed with Dutch names – Seistra Thremiel Allen was born on July 29, 1993 to Zilda Heywood-Smith and Jerome Allen. She was cherished and loved by her family who told her she’s beautiful and spoke of the joy that she brought to them.

At age 11 Ms. Allen migrated to Barbados in the eastern Caribbean where she continued her Primary Education at the Hindsbury School. There, she faced tremendous pressure from her peers as they made a mockery of her Guyanese accent which led her to be very reserved. But, that didn’t stop her passion for singing and dance which she did at Church.

She then sat the Common Entrance Eleven Plus Examination giving her the opportunity to attend a school named after one of Barbados’ Prime Ministers and currently the name of their International Airport “Grantley Adams Memorial School”. There Seistra came into to her own, topping her class and a held a major role in the theatre arts group. Seistra made a bold step to sit the English Language and Social Studies CSEC Examinations in Third form, gaining passes in both subjects. In her fourth year she was named the school Deputy Head Girl and recently graduated with the Valedictorian honour and held the award of Best Graduating Student in her theatre arts class. Continue reading “Miss Guyana World: Delegates #6 Siestra Allen”

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Jovan Wilson aiming for second crown in 2011

Miss Guyana Jamzone - Jovan Wilson

Many of you may remember this ‘dark horse’ who eliminated her competition on Independence Night to claim the title of Miss Guyana Jamzone 2011. Well, this Berbician beauty, presently in Antigua competing in the Miss Jaycees Caribbean Queen show is also making preparations to represent Guyana at the upcoming Miss Jamzone International 2011 pageant.

This talented 21 year old enjoys fishing, modeling, hospitality research, photography and reading. Wilson attended the New Amsterdam Multilateral School, where she secured nine subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate examinations. She also obtained an Associate’s Degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management from the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College based in Tortola, British Virgin Islands.

Wilson explained that since it is her first International pageant, she intends to use the Miss Jaycees Queen Show as a stepping stone and apply the knowledge and experience gained to hopefully win her second crown for 2011.
Jovan would like the general public to continue supporting her as she enters this new venture.

By – Hits and Jams Entertainment

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Miss Jamzone International: Meet Stacy Norine Ceder of Suriname

Suriname Delegate - Stacey Norine Ceder

Suriname heads to Guyana once more for the second staging of the Miss Jamzone International pageant. This time, armed with veritable conviction and a 21 year old show-topper who plans to leave no stone unturned in her quest for the crown. The Dutch representative Stacy Norine Ceder is currently studying to become a Chemical Analyst at the Suriname Nature Technical Institute (NATIN).

Though her favorite hobby is modeling, Stacey also enjoys swimming dancing and believe it or not, this beauty loves Thai Boxing. Ceder is an avid fashion enthusiast and has also participated in numerous runway shows and modeling competitions throughout her country including the Miss Suriname 2008 pageant.

Ceder describes herself as a rigid, persistent individual and a very redoubtable opponent.

By – Hits and Jams Entertainment

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Miss Guyana World 2011 Swimsuit Competition

Miss Guyana World Delegates

Let it be said that we at Guyanalive.com are all for local talent and entertainment, but making us wait for over an hour to access that talent and entertainment is just plain wrong. That’s right, we had to wait for quite some time to see a very short swimsuit competition at the Pegasus Hotel, Poolside on Friday last. First of all, the seating arrangements were most ad hoc. Very few persons were aware that the seats cost more as they got closer to the stage. As a result, we were impolitely asked to remove from our original seats because they were reserved (even though there was no sign), and we were forced to sit at the back with the rest of the media. Even though we were insulted we decided to not let it bother us because we knew that a bevy of beauties were to be showcased very shortly. While we waited in vain the Majestic Band decided to beautifully serenade the audience with oldies and reggae hits and let us be the first to admit that we were impressed.

The music was crisp and soothing and they have excellent command of the stage. After their segment someone who we thought was the MC said that the coordinators apologized for the very late start but the show will begin now. Huh? So the Majestic Band was not a part of the show? Well if they weren’t then the coordinators flawed in a major way. The official start of the show opened up with a group called the Belza Family. A mixture of what we thought was hip hop and dancehall (though we could be absolutely incorrect) was delivered in an unprofessional and lax way. However, just as were on the brink of boredom we were zapped back to life by a pretty young lady named Livia Prescott who tantalized us with some local soca tracks that she produced while living in the United States (go figure). It was after Ms. Prescott that we at Guyanalive.com assumed the show had properly begun because Don Gialliani was next on stage. Those of us who know this young artistic individual know what he is capable of. Hot lyrics on nice beats that made you either bob your head or move your shoulders. Even the reigning Miss Guyana Universe, Kara Lord (who looked simply stunning might we add), was seen shaking to the grooves. We think the Don saw this too and decided to serenade her acapella style. The crowd went wild and we are positive that there were a few jealous ladies at that moment. After Don Gialiani’s piece we were amazed by the melodious voice of First Born member Rolston Richmond who spared no boundary in producing some of the best music we have heard all night.

Then ladies and gentlemen, the moment we have waited (and waited, and waited) for, the six gorgeous delegates were introduced on stage by the real MC’s. The women were all draped in matching outfits and even did a choreographed dance while their profiles were being read out. We think it is safe to say that it was worth the wait. We couldn’t take our eyes off of them. Beauty after beauty, bursting with zest, confidence and simple radiance. And then the show was over. We kid you not folks; after the ladies modeled individually the MC’s thanked us all for coming and enduring the supernaturally lengthy wait. It was unclear who won that segment since the noise was unbearable. The judges, who entered a few minutes after they were introduced in a most rude way, had to take extra time (with good reason) to decide who the winner was. However, we will at least tell you the names of the six delegates; Ms. Arti Cameron, Ms. Ruquayyah Boyer, Ms. Soyini Fraser, Ms. Seistra Allen, Ms. Utieka John, Ms. Shanessa James and Ms. Celeste Dolphin. Come July 31, Guyana will know who will exuberantly represent us at the international level. Until then, the Miss Guyana World Swimsuit Competition gets a 5 out of a possible 10 on the Guyanalive.com scale.

By Patrice Wishart

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Miss Jamzone International: Meet the dazzling Dominican!

Miss Dominica - Marcia Baptiste
Miss Dominica - Marcia Baptiste

“I am a proud denizen of the island of Dominica also known as the Nature Island of the World, Land of Many Rivers, Home of the World Creole Music Festival and the Most Original Carnival, ‘The Real Mas’. I am confident in my chances of securing the crown!”

26 year old Marcia Baptiste has had quite a prolific run in the pageant industry, winning multiple crowns including Miss Dominica, Miss Caribbean World and Miss Jaycee’s Caribbean Queen 2010. In the academic arena, Marcia is a Natural Science Graduate with three A-levels from the Dominica state College and is also currently employed as an Events and Customer Service Assistant at the Ross University School of Medicine.

This Dominican beauty describes herself as an outspoken and determined person who loves reading, meeting people, travelling, shoe shopping, exploring new places, learning new things and surfing the web. Should Marcia be crowned Miss Jamzone International 2011, she intends to use this as a platform to impact positively on the lives of young people.

By – Hits and Jams Entertainment

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Miss Guyana Jamzone 2011: Heading off to represent Guyana at Miss Jaycee’s Pageant in Antigua!

Miss Jaycee's Caribbean Queen Contestants
Miss Jaycee's Caribbean Queen Contestants

Even though she is much occupied with preparations for the Miss Jamzone International pageant, Miss Guyana Jamzone 2011 Jovan Wilson is taking full advantage of every opportunity to successfully represent Guyana on the International scene. On July 26th, Jovan will be soaring off to the nature isle Antigua, accompanied by her chaperone, Simpli Royal franchise owner Pamela Dillon, to represent Guyana at the 50th staging of the Miss Jaycee’s Caribbean Queen show!

This pageant, which features as part of the annual Antiguan Carnival, brings together an array of beauty, talent, intelligence and culture through the participation of the contestants from all around the Caribbean region, who compete in various segments for the crown. Every year, the organizers see applications from territories such as, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Guyana, Jamaica, Nevis, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, St. Croix, and Trinidad and Tobago all eager to secure a spot in the line-up.

Notwithstanding the fierce competition she may encounter, Jovan is overwhelmed by excitement and pride to be chosen as Guyana’s ambassador. “I am absolutely thrilled to promote my country on an international level and to also have the chance to observe the diverse cultures of our neighboring nations”, said Jovan when questioned on the topic. “I also intend to take all my pageant experience and knowledge to Antigua and work fervently towards becoming the heiress to the throne”.

Jovan is undergoing intense training and prepping with Dillon who is confident in her [Jovan’s] abilities to shine at the upcoming pageant. “Jovan is the ideal candidate for this contest. She’s smart, beautiful, talented and always eager to learn. I’m absolutely certain that she will do well”, said Dillon who has successfully prepared countless delegates for several pageants including Jaycees throughout the years. Wilson will be participating in several segments including: Talent, for which she has prepared a dramatic poem; Evening wear designed by Pat Coates, Swimsuit, Question and Answering which will be based on her submitted biography and National Costume which is being created by local designer Curt Stephenson entitled ‘Empress of Shell Beach’.

According to a featured press release from the Antiguan State owned website ab.gov.ag, the pageant committee is in ‘high gear’ for the event which officially kicks off with a pre-show on Wednesday July 27th at the Sugar Ridge Resort. To date, the committee has confirmed the participation of nine countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Anguilla, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Guyana, Montserrat, St Kitts and St Maarten. Acting according to their tagline ‘Integrating the Caribbean through pageantry’, the organizers promise to present an excellent package as a contribution to the 2011 Antigua and Barbuda Carnival and undoubtedly one of the biggest shows of their soon-to-be 50 years of existence.

Jovan would like the general public to support her on this journey as she illustrates the beauty, diversity and splendor of our unique culture. Further, Guyana has secured three of the Miss Jaycees Queens by former queens Alison Alleyne 1969; Peggy Wallalu 1970 and professional model Meleesa Payne, who walked away with the title in 2006.

By – Hits and Jams Entertainment

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Miss Jamzone International 2011: Miss Jamaica

Miss Jamaica - Trishauna Clarke
Miss Jamaica - Trishauna Clarke

“I’m looking forward to visiting the beautiful country of Guyana and I am eager to learn more about the culture. I will be sure to absorb every detail of this unique experience. In that way I can proudly wear the crown and handily represent Miss Jamzone International for 2011!”
The land of reggae is proud to present a stunning bi-racial beauty, an urbane young woman who seamlessly exemplifies the diversity of the Jamaican culture, Miss Trishauna Clarke!

This 23 year old actress, singer and former National athlete, is currently a full time student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Nursing. She also adds professional model to her abounding portfolio, as she is presently one of the most sought after faces on both the regional and international levels. Trishauna’s successful modeling career includes numerous appearances in commercials, magazines and run-way shows including BET’s annual Rip the Runway in spring 2010 and the internationally aired Puma ‘Jam’ commercial along side fellow Jamaican track star Usain Bolt.

Trishauna is honored and excited to be a part of the Miss Jamzone International 2011 pageant, she therefore intends to work unremittingly to represent her homeland and hopefully claim the crown for Jamaica once more!

By – Hits and Jams Entertainment

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Miss Caribbean Culture Pageant 2011: Kiswana Abimola Jefford set to rep for Guyana

Kiswana Jefford

The sun was setting on the 31st July, 1990, when the wail of a bouncing baby girl pierced the confines of the Woodlands Hospital in the capital city of Guyana. Prematurely born, this bubbly baby girl put a smile upon the face of Elton Jefford (late) and brought cheerfulness into the life of Erica Sobers. “I embody the traits of a positive, prudent and assiduous young woman who is determined to become one of society’s leading ladies and leave a legendary mark on the world,” she emphatically states. Reflecting humility Kiswana is  resolute young woman, who endorses taking a stance for your beliefs and fulfilling your goals.

In Her words:
I embarked on my first educational journey at the South Ruimveldt Park Nursery School then South Ruimveldt Park Primary School where I sat the Secondary School Entrance Examinations (S.S.E.E). I subsequently completed my secondary level of learning at St. Stanislaus College and North Georgetown Secondary School where I amassed 13 (thirteen) subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Examination Council Examination (C.S.E.C)  Thus obtaining the Student of Excellency Award. Throughout the different levels of my education I participated in various extracurricular activities, mainly debating, reading, spelling b and track and field competitions. With leadership qualities, and an outspoken yet agreeable and cool disposition I was elected school prefect by my peers and school teachers. Motivated by my love for intellectual enhancement and elevation I am currently a second year International Relations student of the University of Guyana. However, upon its conclusion it is my objective to continue my journey academically by studying Law. Hence, taking me one step closer of accomplishing my career objective-a Criminal Attorney-at-Law.

When I am not working as an Administrative Assistant at Hughes, Fields and Stoby or studying, I embrace leisure in being an activist for environmental preservation and tourism education, reading, surfing the internet and dancing; I have a passion for the art form of dance and is presently a member of Classique Dance Company. My past times also expand to include hanging out with family and friends and spending quality time with elderly folks, orphans and/or children faced with adversities. An exemplification of eloquence, radiance and charisma I also epitomize the “girly-girl” who adores fashion and embraces a fanatical interest in pageantry. The latter of which prompted me to enter the 2009 Miss Guyana Talented Teen pageant where I placed third and secured the Miss Body Beautiful prize. My next pageant was the Miss Guyana Earth 2010 pageant of which I am the reigning queen and also attained the Queen of the Catwalk prize and Miss Body Beautiful once more. I then journeyed to St. Martin last year as Guyana’s Representative in the Miss Caraibes Hibiscus 2010 pageant and will be Guyana’s Beauty Ambassador at Miss Earth International 2011 in China. I recently participated in the Miss Guyana Jamzone 2011 pageant where I placed third and secure the Miss Body Beautiful title again.

I admire Nelson Mandela and the women of today, primarily Oprah Winfrey and Desiree Bernard, who are my role models. I believe the individual I am today is attributable to the morals my parents imbued in me whilst growing up, a sound educational background and everything I’ve experienced from childhood to date. Five years from now I envisage myself as having established my own charitable organization, having completed a Bachelors degree in International Relations and striving to procure a Degree in Law, a professional Dancer and Guyana’s representative at the prestigious Miss Universe and/or Miss World pageants. This is me, Kiswana Abimola Jefford-A spirited dancer, an aspiring lawyer, a role model, a patriot, a Guyanese…

This year’s pageant will be staged in two parts for the first time…The Swimsuit Competition is scheduled for St Kitts on Saturday July 23, 2011 at Carnival Village while the other segments – talent, evening gown, interview and crowning will be held in Nevis on Monday July 25.