By Samantha Simon
In a dazzling display of beauty, talent, and cultural pride, Shakyrah Davis has been crowned Miss Caribbean UK 2024.
The momentous event took place on Saturday night, coinciding with the celebration of Antigua and Barbuda’s independence.
Shakyrah, a dedicated tourism marketing professional with Antiguan and Barbudan heritage, expressed her joy and gratitude upon winning the coveted title.
“It’s such a surreal feeling to have brought the Crown home and broken a record for the pageant organisation by winning four titles: overall winner, Best Evening Wear, the People’s Choice Award, and Best Charity Pitch,” she shared in her acceptance speech.
The newly crowned Queen also acknowledged the support she received leading up to the competition. “I have received an unwavering amount of support from friends, family, and the Antiguan and Barbuda community, both on island and here in the UK,” Shakyrah said, expressing her appreciation for the encouragement that helped her overcome her initial nervousness about participating in the pageant.
Shakyrah’s journey to the crown was not without hard work and preparation.
She revealed, “Leading up to the competition, I did all that I could to prepare, from endless question and answer practice with my colleagues and friends, seeking advice from previous pageant participants and Queens, and practising stage routines into the late hours of the night.”
The Miss Caribbean UK Organisation praised Shakyrah for her achievement, recognizing her as a role model for the Caribbean community in the UK.
“Shakyrah embodies the values of our organisation: confidence, elegance, and a commitment to empowering and uplifting women,” a spokesperson for the organisation stated.
As part of her winning streak, Shakyrah also secured the Best Evening Wear title, wearing a stunning gown designed by one of her closest friends.
Her dedication to charitable causes, particularly her support for the Sunshine Home for Girls, was also recognised with the Best Charity Pitch award.
“I am incredibly passionate about supporting the Sunshine Home for Girls, and I am honoured to have my efforts acknowledged through the Best Charity Pitch award,” Shakyrah said, emphasising her commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of young girls.
Looking ahead, Shakyrah plans to use her platform to continue representing Antigua and Barbuda and sharing her heritage with the world.
“I hope to use this platform to continue my work in representing our beautiful island and sharing our heritage,” she stated.
The first runner-up of the competition was Carla Mark-Thompson of Aruba, while the second runner-up was Layia Johnson representing Jamaica.
The event showcased the talent, beauty, and cultural diversity of the Caribbean diaspora in the UK, with contestants representing various islands and backgrounds.
