Parliamentary Representative for St. George and Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Michael Freeland, has congratulated Potters resident Zaine Frederick on her historic victory at The Bank of Nevis Limited Miss Caribbean Culture Queen 2026 pageant.

Frederick became the first representative from Antigua and Barbuda to capture the regional crown in the competition’s 20-year history, securing victory with 1,425 points following an impressive showing in Nevis.

Freeland said the achievement is particularly special for the people of St. George, noting that Frederick is a resident of Potters, which forms part of the constituency he represents.

“Potters is proud, St. George is proud, and Antigua and Barbuda is proud,” Freeland said as he joined the nation in celebrating the newly crowned regional queen.

Frederick also captured the Best Talent and Best Evening Gown awards, helping propel her to the top of a competitive field of Caribbean delegates.

Her regional success comes just days after she was crowned Queen of Carnival 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda, making the achievement even more significant.

Freeland said Frederick’s success demonstrates the calibre of talent that exists among the nation’s young people and provides inspiration for other young women throughout St. George and Antigua and Barbuda.

In his capacity as Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Freeland also highlighted the wider significance of Frederick’s victory for the country’s tourism and cultural sectors.

He said achievements on the regional stage help showcase Antigua and Barbuda’s culture, creativity and people while providing valuable exposure for the destination.

“Our Carnival, our culture and our talented young people are powerful ambassadors for Antigua and Barbuda. Every time one of our nationals excels on the regional or international stage, another spotlight is placed on our country and all that we have to offer,” Freeland said.

The St. George MP praised Frederick for representing the country with grace, confidence and distinction and said her journey demonstrates what can be achieved through preparation, discipline and determination.

He also extended congratulations to Frederick’s family, team and all those who supported her preparations for both the national and regional competitions.

Frederick defeated St. Kitts representative Tresjeur Dedier, who finished first runner-up with 1,409 points, while Guyana’s Miriam Alexander placed second runner-up with 1,396 points.

Freeland said Frederick can now proudly celebrate not only as Antigua and Barbuda’s Queen of Carnival, but as a history-maker who has carried Potters, St. George and Antigua and Barbuda to the top of the Caribbean pageant stage