JAHIEM THOMAS, aka Verrse, retained the Soca Titans crown before a wildly enthusiastic crowd at old Market Square, Scarborough, Tobago on October 22.

Dressed in a brilliant yellow suit with a replica crown on his head, Thomas, who celebrated his 20th birthday on October 21, sang Paradise, a tribute to Tobago’s rich cultural heritage. The song earned him 415 points and the $75,000 first prize.

Zorisha Hackett, Secretary of Education, Research and Technology, with temporary responsibility for culture and antiquities, and Niall George, assistant secretary in the Division of Tourism, Culture, Antiquities and Transportation, presented an emotional Thomas with a large replica cheque amid the din of cheering supporters.