Leanne Hernandez and Ja’nae, Shanice Simon and Le Shaunte and Natasha Johnson and Jadiamond were the winners in the junior, middle and senior categories respectively at the 30th Mother and Daughter pageant on May 13 at the National Cultural Centre.
The much anticipated event, hosted by Supa Stylistics and directed and produced by mother and daughter Ingrid Fung and Dr Sulan Fung, saw a total of 22 pairs of mothers and daughters in the three categories.
In an interview at the Fung residence, the winners shared their experiences in the pageant as well as how they will use their titles to make a difference in society.
Matthew’s Ridge resident Leanne Hernandez said the pageant allowed her and her six-year-old daughter Ja’nae to build a greater bond, as they spent four to six hours per day rehearsing. Hernandez was inspired to enter the pageant after a photoshoot she did with her daughter for her sixth birthday. Their outfits were designed by Quinton Pearson and showcased a flower concept. According to Ja’nae, her favourite parts of the pageant involved her rehearsing with friends and getting to spend time with her mom.
“The hardest part of the pageant was remembering the routine, but on the night of the pageant I did my best. I even surprised myself because when I came off stage, I was like I did that and even though I had forgotten a piece of the routine I improvised and I’m proud,” Hernandez said.
She said they would use their title to encourage people, to boost their self-confidence and empower women to rise up and overcome all obstacles regardless of their situation.
Shanice Simon and Le Shaunte were motivated by friends to enter the pageant as an opportunity to make memories.
Le Shaunte, a 15-year-old, stated that her biggest role model was her mother.
“As a single parent, my mom has done a lot for me. We have been through a lot and I’m just really thankful for her and everything that she has done for me” she said.
Their outfits were designed by Mwanza Glenn and the theme was ‘attending a high-fashion, star-studded, glitz and glamour tea party at Downton Abbey’.
According to Shanice, being a mother means the world to her because she gets to steer a life and see her daughter grow into a beautiful young lady.
They highlighted that their favourite memory was coming out on the stage and hearing everyone screaming their names. It gave them a sense of confidence. The Agricola residents said that they did not have a lot of time to practise, but they made the most of the moments they had and that was what made it so special.
Le Shaunte is a fan of hockey and dance, while her mother enjoys worshipping and cooking.
“Nothing is impossible because the word itself says I am possible,” is a quote that they both abide by.
Natasha Johnson and Jadiamond were very elated with their win as it came as a surprise to them. Their inspiration to take part in the pageant grew from constant encouragement by various people.
According to 19-year-old Jadiamond, her mother is her biggest role model due to the fact that she has seen her handle so much on her own, and she would like to be that type of person for her mom in the future.
Their outfits were designed by Naomi Murray and showcased them attending the first lady’s classical ball.
“Our platform was women empowerment, so we want to use the platform along with us winning to encourage others to push though. Sometimes you would hear some very discouraging comments… You know, a pageant is a very regal thing, so if you just put your mind to it then you come out successful,” said Jadiamond.
The biggest challenge for the pair was actually finding time to practise due to Jadiamond currently sitting her CAPE examinations and her mother working. However, despite the odds they managed to wow the audience.
Their most memorable pageant experience was when they were backstage waiting for the results with their hands enclosed in each other’s, praying to win.
The pair who reside in Wortman-ville usually enjoy dancing and singing as part of their leisure time activities.
The prizes for this year’s winners include a return trip to the United States of America, dinner for two, and a tablet among other consolation prizes.
