Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer
Keyshia Cole performing during the Miss Jamaica Universe 2008 Grand Coronation Show, held at the National Indoor Sports Centre, Independence Park, on Saturday, April 12.

Latoya Grindley, Features Writer

April Jackson is now set on successfully representing Jamaica at this year's Miss Universe pageant to be staged in Vietnam. She took over the reins from Zahra Redwood after being crowned on Sunday at the National Indoor Sports Centre.

She is over $1 million richer and the owner of a brand-new BMW motor car. She was also the recipient of other gifts and prizes bringing her winnings to more than $10 million.

Edging first runner-up

The 19-year-old was among 25 contestants vying for the crown, edging first runner-up Doneika Plowright and second runner-up Rebecca Silvera, who were both crowd favourites. In fact, if it were up to the shouts and screams, either one would have emerged the winner. Rounding off the top five were Adrianna Bryan and Francine Hall.

To start the competition, the contestants entered the stage in red dresses to the beats of Get Me Bodied by R&B singer Beyoncé, and Rock My World by Michael Jackson. They also individually paraded the stage in swimsuits and evening wears provided by Mushrooms and Uzuri, respectively. The swimsuits were in the shades of metallic green, red, gold and blue, while the gowns were on the more risqué side, accentuated with shimmers and sparkles. It was during the individual strut that the favourites became more apparent, from all the shouts and whistles which echoed throughout the venue.

Cole appearance

But the most anticipated moment came wheninternational rhythm and blues singer Keyshia Cole appeared onstage. Screams greeted her, but for some, especially in the VIP area, the excitement soon turned into annoyance as persons from all different sections flocked to the front of the stage, blocking the view of many. Quite disgruntled, many deemed it pointless to have paid to go to the VIP section.

Next came the question-and-answer section; nerves got the better of some but, in the end, Jackson was declared the winner. Shocked and disappointed, some patrons booed her, stating that the two runners-up would have been better contenders for the crown. Notwithstanding, Jackson was extremely elated and is looking forward to represent Jamaica.

Sectional prizes went to Adrianna Bryan for best in swimsuit, Most Aware to April Jackson, Most Congenial, Doneika Plowright, Most Photogenic, Rebecca Silvera, and the award for the Bling Bling style went to Jeseka Williams.

latoya.grindley@gleaner m.com