HUNDREDS flocked to George Headley Primary School last Friday to see the first ever Mini and Miss George Headley crowned.

Jada Banton, participant in the 7-9 age category, and Gabriel Campbell, in the 10-12 age category, both earned the top titles after charming judges with their winning personalities and the dynamic dance routines.

The evening included many surprises and some spectacular entertainment that had patrons. Twenty two girls participated for two different titles: the Mini Miss George Headley and Miss George Headley, which included girls from ages 7-9 years old and 10-12 years old, respectively. The pageant saw contestants putting on a show in various categories, and when the stage lights were turned on last Friday for its kick-off event the patrons knew that they were in for a treat.

Starting things off was an opening dance performed by all 22 contestants. This piece certainly left patrons longing for what was to come. The performers then introduced themselves to the audience and later paraded in both casual wear and swimwear.

Soon after, patrons were treated to two very interesting segments: the parading of funny wears by the Mini Miss George Headley contestants and sheet wear worn by the Miss George Headley contestants. This segment was filled with pure laughter, as the participants depicted their different characters well. With a short break, the competitors hit the stage again with another group performance. It produced all around chills, as contestants executed all the moves well, which were choreographed by Grade One and dance teacher Miss Aiken. And when the competitors weren’t performing, patrons were entertained by the melodious voice of N’Tune, The George Headley boys quartet, the talented Miss Aiken and the Real Connection dancers.

Contestants later came on performing their talent pieces. Some delivered well, while others were overcome by shyness. The young girls hit the stage again in formal wear In During this segment, each participant had to answer questions asked by an esteemed panel of judges.

After long enough deliberation, it was time to name the sectional prizes and the top winners, though all contestants received certificates for their participation. In the mini section, Jada Banton walked away with the Most Involved, Best Dressed and Most Aware awards. Most Improved Contestant went to Jahdeen Simpson. Monae Chen walked away with the Best Talent award. Second runner-up went to Britney Gordon; First Runner-up went to Monae Chen and the top award went to the charming Jada Banton.

In the Miss George Headley category, Danielle Spencer walked away with the Most Involved and Best Dressed Contestant awards. Hanastacia Madden shared the Most Talented award with Nerissa Vassel but also went home with the Most Aware award.

Second runner-up went to Sabriya Shackleford, First Runner-up went to Gabriel Campbell and first place went to Gabriel Campbell. All awardees received prizes from event sponsors such as HD Hopwood, SoftSheen Carson, Jamaica Biscuit Company, Honey Bun, GraceKennedy and Company Limited and Bridget Sandals among others.

All in all, the first-ever staging of the Mini and Miss George Headley pageant was a great success and promises to be even better in its second staging.

— Chavon Panton