After years of persistence and passion, Kia Kirwan has finally secured her place in pageant history, capturing the coveted 2025 Queen of Carnival title. Representing ACB Caribbean, Kirwan dazzled the judges and audience alike, claiming victories in both the Swimwear and Evening Wear segments to cement her triumph.

Kirwan’s win comes as a moment of redemption, having previously competed in the Miss Antigua & Barbuda pageant in 2018. Although she did not win then, the competition’s rebranding to the Queen of Carnival in 2019 opened a new opportunity, one she seized with confidence and grace this year.

The evening was not without its share of standout performances. Abigail Piper, representing Boardwalk Casino, secured the 1st runner-up position. Piper also captured the People’s Choice Award and swept the Best Interview and Best Performing Talent categories, showcasing her versatility and connection with the public.

(L-R) Abigail Piper, Kia Kirwan, and Danijah Simon (Photo by Festivals Commission)

Danijah Simon, representing Furniture Gallery, claimed 2nd runner-up honors, along with the Best in Costume award. She was also voted Ms. Congeniality, a testament to her camaraderie with fellow contestants.

The other contestants also left their mark. Kaaliyah Guiste represented Masonry Products, while Asheila Pluck, representing Port Authority, was awarded the Celestial Award, an unjudged recognition.

In addition, Kirwan was named Ms. Photogenic, though this accolade, like the People’s Choice and Congeniality awards, was unjudged and based on popular opinion or peer selection.

Kirwan’s victory was met with roaring applause and widespread praise, as many celebrated her perseverance and evolution in the pageant circuit. As the newly crowned Queen of Carnival, she is expected to be a vibrant ambassador for Antigua and Barbuda throughout the Carnival season.

The event reaffirmed the Queen of Carnival pageant’s significance as a premier showcase of beauty, talent, and culture, and this year, it belonged to Kia Kirwan