By Latrishka Thomas
A woman who once felt pageants “weren’t for thick girls” is now representing Antigua and Barbuda on the regional stage, determined to redefine beauty standards across the Caribbean.
Milove Fontaine, 32, will compete in the inaugural Miss Elegantly Plus Caribbean Queen Pageant on March 14 in Tortola, British Virgin Islands, carrying with her a powerful message of self-acceptance for plus-size women everywhere.
“I just encourage anyone out there who’s plus size but feels hesitant to enter a pageant, dance, sing, or show yourself – do that,” said Fontaine, who previously shocked herself by winning Miss Charisma 2020, a competition not specifically for plus-size contestants.
“Give persons the opportunity to love you for you and don’t change who you are for them to do so,” she continued.
Her journey from self-doubt to self-confidence began at the Dreamcatcher modelling agency, where she initially joined, without recognizing her own potential. After her unexpected first pageant victory, she embraced the opportunity to compete in the Miss Elegantly Plus pageant when approached by organizers.
“If I could have done it on my first try, why not do it where I would feel more comfortable, because there will be more plus-size girls, a plus-size community,” Fontaine explained.
The pageant, themed “Boldness Revived” aims to celebrate diversity throughout the Caribbean region. Four delegates from various Caribbean nations will compete for the crown.
Fontaine has received overwhelming support from her home country, with fans rallying behind her candidacy for the People’s Choice Award. “I wouldn’t feel like I can do this for my people without you guys rallying behind me,” she expressed gratefully.
Voting remains open until March 13 through the pageant’s social media channels.
Sponsored by Anjo Insurance, Little B&J Fabric, and Cool and Smooth, Fontaine is currently studying Business Management with Psychology at UWI Five Islands and works in the Executive Lounge at VC Bird International Airport.
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