Jonieka Smithen

What motivated you to enter the National Carnival Queen pageant?

My love for pageantry was one of the main reasons why I chose to do the National Carnival Queen Pageant.

Have you competed in other show before?

I have competed in pageants before. My first major pageant was the Talented Youth Pageant in 2008 where I was announced the winner. In 2015 I entered the Miss Culture Queen Pageant and won the Evening Wear Segment. 

What schools did you attend?

I attended the Charlestown Primary School, Charlestown Secondary School and The Nevis Sixth Form College.

What was your platform?

My platform in the National Carnival Queen Pageant was Breast Cancer Awareness. I chose this platform because I lost my grandmother to this terrible disease.

What was your experience participating in the National Queen show?

My experience in this pageant was simply great! I gained numerous friendships but I got extremely close to my fellow contestant Miss Nordia Demming. This show taught me that once you give something your all, you will always leave happy and satisfied.

Tell us about the segment that you won and your designer.

The segment I won was the National Pride Segment in which I portrayed a Breast Cancer Warrior. The designer and creator of my costume was Mr. Chandy Lewis. It was a pleasure working with him. The time and effort he put into my costume was amazing. I thank him for everything he has done.