SCREENING FOR THE QUEEN OF CARNIVAL CONTESTANTS COMPETED

Following the launch of Antigua’s Carnival, the Antigua Barbuda Festivals Commission is excited to announce that this year’s Queen of Carnival screening of potential delegates took place on Saturday, March 28th, 2025. Seven hopefuls were judged in four categories: Interview, Swimwear, Cocktail Attire, and Performing Talent.

An esteemed panel comprising Mr. Eustace James (seasoned adjudicator, trainer, and pageant expert), Ms. Jamilla Kirwan (1996 Miss Antigua Barbuda and Miss Jaycees), and Ms. Terri Ann Richardson (2003 Miss Antigua Barbuda) adjudicated the screening process.

During the Interview, the judges assessed the applicant’s mastery of the English language, delivery, content, diction, clarity, and fluency. In the Swimwear segment, the young ladies showcased their modeling skills and were judged based on muscle tone, poise, and carriage in their personal selection.

The Cocktail Attire segment was adjudicated on impact, carriage, and poise. Lastly, the potential delegates were allotted under two minutes to display their talent, with the judges looking for authenticity, interpretation, originality, natural talent, presentation, and relevance.

Raynel Carroll, Co-Chair of the Queen of Carnival Subcommittee, shared her thoughts on the screening, stating: “We were quite pleased with the caliber of young women who presented themselves at the Queen of Carnival 2025 Screening. While we anticipated nine attendees, seven potential delegates participated, each displaying confidence, poise, and a passion for representing Antigua and Barbuda. After careful deliberation by the panel of judges, five outstanding delegates who truly embody the essence of this prestigious competition were selected. Alongside my fellow Co-Chair, Shenique Barry, and the entire Queen of Carnival Committee, we are excited to officially introduce these young women to the nation and look forward to the journey ahead.”

Minister of State for Education, Sport, and Creative Industries, Hon. Shenella Govia, also expressed her enthusiasm for this year’s competition: “The Queen of Carnival has long been a symbol of grace, talent, and national pride, and I have no doubt that this year’s delegates will uphold the high standard set over the years. Reigning Queen Desrie Markham has paved the way for young women to step into this role with confidence, and I am certain that the ladies selected will do an amazing job. With a newly appointed committee at the helm, I am confident that the dedication and hard work they invest will result in an exceptional show that the public will truly enjoy.”

The selected delegates will make their first public appearance at a Sponsorship Cocktail and Queen Unveiling, marking the beginning of their journey to the crown.