The close-knit rural community of Cow Pen in northwest Clarendon celebrated with pride last Saturday as 26-year-old Jenieve Richards was crowned Miss Clarendon Festival Queen 2026. For the tiny farming district, the title was more than a parish crown. It was a proud moment for the young woman they had watched grow into a leader committed to serving others.

Known simply as ‘Jen Jen’ to the people of Cow Pen, Richards dominated the competition at the parish coronation at Glenmuir High School, capturing five of the six sectional awards. She won Most Popular on Social Media, Most Active in the Community, Most Poised, Most Culturally Aware, and Best Performance. Fellow contestant Rosealee Williamson received the Most Congenial award, while Danique Allen and Marianne Garrick placed first and second runners-up, respectively.

For Richards, however, the crown is not the destination. It is another opportunity to champion the rural communities that shaped her and help ensure that other young people have the guidance and opportunities they need to succeed.