The first Miss Universe Jamaica St Catherine will be crowned on Thursday at the HEART College of Construction Services in Portmore, and the organisers say that the seven contestants are “more than ready to compete”.

“The level of training they have been exposed to has been intense,” chief organiser, Janique McKenzie told The Gleaner. “Through the support of our fitness sponsor, Classic Body Fitness Center, the ladies have received comprehensive fitness training, along with coaching in walk and poise. The trainers have worked diligently to prepare them for competition, and we're extremely grateful that they have invested their time and expertise in our contestants.”

She explained that the journey started with approximately 20 entrants from communities right across St. Catherine, including Spanish Town, Linstead, and Portmore. McKenzie shared, however, that it has not been easy retaining the young women throughout the competition, “particularly because sponsorship remains one of the biggest challenges we face”.