The effervescent Danielle Crosskill is the general manager of her family’s company CariChem Products Limited, and the newly crowned Miss Jamaica World 2011 (MJW). In-between sips of Merlot at the Mahogany Tree Bar, the beauty queen quivered with excitement at the very thought of being the new Miss Jamaica World and representing The Rock in the 61st Miss World pageant on November 6 in London.

What are you sipping today?

Red wine.

What kind of day are you having?

I’ve been having a great day — very busy, but great nonetheless. I did Smile Jamaica this morning and a host of other interviews.

What’s your ideal relaxation spot?

I absolutely love Port Antonio, Portland. More specifically a little resort called the Kanopi — it’s my favourite place to be.

What’s your latest obsession?

That would have to be going to the gym. Before the pageant I had already started working out, but when I started MJW it became more rigorous and I was constantly in the gym. Now if I miss one day I feel strange. It just feels good to feel healthy.

Socialite or homebody?

Socialite for sure.

What were your reasons for entering the pageant?

Not only did I do it for the experience but I also did it for my personal growth. I am passionate about Jamaica and I thought it was the perfect avenue for me to represent my country.

Throughout the competition, what was the most important thing you learned about yourself?

I lacked confidence. I wasn’t the most confident person going into the competition and MJW helped me to build that. I learned that hard work really does pay off.

What were your initial thoughts when you first heard your name announced as the new MJW?

(laughs) I was in shock but I was also ecstatic…overjoyed. Words really can’t explain what I was feeling at that moment.

Flats or stilettos?

Stilettos. I think it looks more elegant, although it does depend on the occasion.

Jeans or LBD?

Definitely LBD.

What turns you off?

Ignorant people. People who misjudge and go with stereotypes.

In a sentence, who is Danielle Crosskill?

Danielle is a strong, determined individual who is a very thoughtful and loyal friend.

What’s your must-have accessory?

For jewellery it’s earrings and for make-up it’s lipgloss. Can’t leave home without them.

What’s your style?

Contemporary and chic.

What’s in your handbag?

A lot (laughs). My purse with all my cards, driver’s licence and money. I don’t leave home without lipgloss, eyeliner mascara, Chap Stick, gum, my phone and a pair of sunglasses.

What perfume are you spraying?

Into You by Calvin Klein

What’s your idea of the perfect man?

Wowzers! (laughs)… The perfect man for me would have to be loyal, ambitious, caring and definitely adventurous because I’m adventurous.

What’s your idea of the perfect date?

Going to a theme park and perhaps dinner after.

What’s your biggest pet peeve?

Writing with a pencil. It has something to do with the texture; I just can’t do it.

Who does your hair?

Traci Stewart.

Who does your nails?

Candy.

When you’re not performing MJW duties, where’s the best place to find you?

At work. I am the general manager of the family business, Carichem Products Limited.

What’s in your car stereo/on your iPod?

Maroon 5, I love them.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?

Never set limits on what you can achieve. You can do everything you set your mind to.

What do you feel is your best character trait?

I am very thoughtful of others.

And your worst?

I can be stubborn sometimes (laughs).

Who or what inspires you?

Definitely my mum and my dad. They are two of the most hardworking individuals I know. They would do anything for their children and they have all the characteristics I’d like to emulate.

What projects are you currently working on?

I’ve been working on quite a lot. I teach part-time at Building Blocks Pre-School as well volunteering at Glenhope Place of Safety. I have also been recently accepted to do my Master’s in Education at the University of the West Indies, but will have to defer until next year because of MJW duties.

Speaking of MJW, throughout the competition leading up to the coronation, did you think you would have won?

No! This crop of girls were just so beautiful and amazingly talented and intelligent, it was hard to see myself as a clear winner.

Who did you think would have won and why?

If I had to pick one, definitely Kayla Mendes. She is really beautiful with an amazing personality. She is talented and intelligent and on the night she exhibited such flair, even in the question-and-answer segment she totally nailed it. Her response was excellent.

Are you ready for London?

I am feeling a bit pressured because whereas most of the other international contestants have already been chosen for a while now, I would have only had a month to prepare after my crowning. However, with the grooming and training that I’ve done with MJW over the past four months I’m confident that I will be ready.

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

I hope to be remembered as not just a former Miss Jamaica World but a former Miss World. Also, by then I would already have my Master’s in Education and will be continuing to build on the family company, as I believe that the future of Jamaica is in manufacturing.