By Kisean Joseph
Police officer and Queen of Carnival third-placed contestant Shania Samuel is preparing to represent Antigua and Barbuda at the OECS Pageant in Dominica on January 31, adding another chapter to her journey in pageantry and public service.
Samuel’s path hasn’t always been smooth sailing. “Queen of Carnival is actually my first successful pageant. I’ve never placed in the others before, but that never really stopped me,” she said during an interview. “I knew I had some hidden talent somewhere that was bound to be exposed.”
The contestant, who regularly showcases her vocal abilities as her talent, has since participated in five pageants, with notable showings in the Queen of Carnival and True-Blue Beauty Pageant competitions, held last year. The upcoming challenge at the OECS Pageant will see her competing in several segments, including Creative National Wear, talent, swimwear, and evening wear.
What sets Samuel apart is her ability to balance her duties as a law enforcement officer with her participation in pageantry. As a member of the police marching band, she approaches her responsibilities with determination. “What good of a police officer am I if I’m not capable of balancing the two?” she asked. “I am used to having to balance a lot of things in my life. I am used to a lot of sacrifices that I have to make.”
Beyond the glamour, Samuel is passionate about showcasing the authentic spirit of Antigua and Barbuda on the regional stage. “Antigua and Barbuda is more than just 365 beaches,” she said. “It’s the people, the unity, the love, the food, the culture. I mean, it doesn’t get better than having people that are so loving and caring, even to visitors when they come.”
Her platform extends beyond cultural and includes embracing body positivity while on her mission to encourage young women and men to embrace self-acceptance. “Beauty isn’t defined by what any other person thinks, but mainly what you think,” she said.
While Samuel is focusing on her OECS Pageant preparation, she hinted that there’s more to come. “Stay tuned because this Calypso diva ain’t done yet,” she added.