Raquel Wright, Contributor
Raquel sits with a child fan at the World AIDS Day Emacipation Park event on December 1, 2005.- CONTRIBUTED
Her year as Miss Jamaica Universe ends today, as Raquel Wright takes her final walk at the Hilton hotel, New Kingston. It has been a special year in her life and, naturally, she has many memories. So read on, as Raquel Wright writes.
APRIL 17, 2005, still seems like a dream to me. Winning Miss Jamaica Universe 2005 has been one of the most amazing experiences in my life so far. I have been introduced to many people across the globe, dined with royalty, travelled the world, been warmly received by people at home and abroad and worked with people living with HIV/AIDS.
All these incredible experiences have changed my life forever.
As a little girl, I often dreamed of having the glitz and glamour that seemingly encircled every beauty queen. This past year, however, has proven to me that glitz and glamour come secondary to hard work, dedication, loyalty and a commitment to excellence.
The decision to enter was not necessarily an easy one, I'd like to say. However, my life has been forever defined by uncanny contradictions, where I challenge the confines of my comfort zone and launch into unfamiliar territories.
CONCRETE MOTIVATIONS
There, however, have been certain concrete motivations which have allowed these contradictions to unfold powerfully and positively, including, but not limited to, an undying passion for my country, a desire to be a positive and worthy role model, a longing to help others, a commitment to academic excellence, and a desire to always live life more abundantly.
Seeking new and different journeys has always given me a certain thrill and satisfaction. I find that this motivation breaks the monotony of people's expectations and simultaneously redirects my energy.
One of the reasons I entered Miss Jamaica Universe was to challenge stereotypes about young women who enter these competitions. It is often believed that these women are superficial and lack depth; my goal was to prove that a woman of substance could enter and revamp an entire competition and use it as a vehicle for change. Upon deciding to take on the challenge, I channelled all my energies into preparing with an unbounded determination. This was an opportunity to change perceptions and to influence the profile of female role models in Jamaica and, possibly, around the world. With a blessing, I won the competition and worked hard all year long to prove that it took more than a pretty face to achieve greatness.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
One year ago I dared to believe that I could make a difference in the lives of young Jamaicans, and I have! If nothing else, the various HIV/AIDS campaigns islandwide which I have supported 100 per cent have confirmed that my vision and hard work have made a positive impact in motivating and educating people on pertinent issues which essentially affect us all. In addition, I have further educated myself on this issue, which affects so many people globally, and particularly in Jamaica. I have realised that this is a very sensitive but serious topic affecting a vast number of people and it clearly needs the support of an entire nation.
Many people believe that being 'Miss Jamaica Universe' is an easy job. Believe me, it's not! I've been graciously humbled by the experiences that I've encountered during my year, not only by the places I've visited but also by people I have met. One of my most memorable experiences was in Thailand at Miss Universe, where I truly got the chance to see how much of an impact Jamaica has on the larger global community.
Overall, it's been a life-moulding experience, one that future title holders should embrace and endure, but at the same time, utilise their position to contribute positively to society.
Words cannot express my appreciation and gratitude to those who have made this year possible. To my fellow Jamaicans, thank you for always being there to offer words of encouragement and support. I was blessed to be able to represent each and every one of you this year. I am so proud to be Jamaican and no matter where in the world I am, Jamaica will always be home.
Thank you for always making me feel like a winner. It was truly a pleasure to be your Miss Jamaica Universe.
