Abigail Piper
The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) has announced that national queen Abigail Piper will no longer participate in the Miss Caribbean Universe Pageant, which is scheduled to take place on June 13 in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.
According to the Commission, the decision was made due to unforeseen visa-related challenges and travel restrictions that were beyond the control of both Piper and the ABFC.
Despite the setback, the Commission has confirmed that Piper will still represent Antigua and Barbuda on the regional stage later this year when she competes in the Miss Caribbean Beauty and Intelligence Pageant in August.
The pageant is regarded as one of the region’s premier platforms for young women, emphasizing leadership, cultural awareness, intelligence, and personal development.
Minister of Sports and Creative Industries Dwayne George expressed confidence in Piper’s ability to continue making the nation proud.
“The Commission is immensely proud of Abigail and her accomplishments, preparation, and unwavering commitment throughout this journey,” George said.
“She has represented Antigua and Barbuda with grace, professionalism, and distinction. We have every confidence that she will shine on the regional stage, and we look forward to supporting her as she proudly carries our flag at the Miss Caribbean Beauty and Intelligence Pageant later this year.”
Piper has also extended gratitude to the organizers of the Miss Caribbean Universe Pageant, along with her sponsors, family, friends, and supporters who have stood behind her throughout her journey.
She wished all contestants competing in the upcoming event success and expressed her support for the continued growth of the pageant.
The Festivals Commission is encouraging the public to continue supporting Piper as she prepares for her next regional appearance, expressing confidence that she will continue to showcase the talent, poise, and excellence of Antigua and Barbuda on the international stage
That’s f&-cked up. No one is immune to this assholes actions. I hate Trump
You mean you hate Gaston @Apex Jones. Given Gaston’s blatant disregard for us a people, our lives are now in his hands when we want to travel outside of the Caribbean. Selfishness at its best. People can’t visit families, attend graduations, appy for greencards, visas, enjoy their long vacations because of Gaston so annoying and agitating
You mean you hate Gaston @Apex Jones. Given Gaston’s blatant disregard for us a people, our lives are now in his hands when we want to travel outside of the Caribbean. Selfishness at its best. People can’t visit families, attend graduations, appy for greencards, visas, enjoy their long vacations because of Gaston so annoying and agitating
Why are you blaming Gaston for Trump’s decision on imposing Visa sanctions on Antiguans? Antigua is not the only country on his list of enemies. Take a good look at the countries that are not affected by his decision. Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana they all have OIL .. what does Antigua have that Trump can steal? I do not belong to any political party so I can speak my truth. There is God, put your trust in Him!
If all the countries put American s out this will stop if you not visiting on a tourist ship get put since we can’t go to your country
That’s unfortunate, but some things are beyond our control. Wishing Abigail all the best in August.
Another reminder of how difficult international travel can be, even for official representatives.
She worked so hard for this. I know she must be disappointed. Keep your head high, Abigail.
These travel restrictions are becoming a serious challenge for Caribbean nationals.
Visa issues continue to affect too many of our young people. Hope this gets sorted out in the future.
As an individual who doesn’t support party but country, it’s quite obvious the buck stop with the country leader. Antiguans with great grandparent who is were Antiguans and even further back should take note of the ethnic cleansing taking place for political reasons. And it’s because of that these people and Asians people holding Antigua and Barbuda passports posed a security risk to the USA why we indigenous Antiguans will face entry issues in countries traditionally were visa free or access easily
Abigail has represented Antigua and Barbuda with class from day one. Her time to shine is still coming.