JAMAICA’S history of success at the Miss World pageant is both motivation and pressure for current title — holder Ashlie White Barrett, as she prepares to depart for the international contest which is being held on December 18 in Washington DC, United States.

Speaking to the Jamaica Observer following a showcase of her Miss World wardrobe at Devon House recently, Barrett expressed that she is currently experiencing a mix of emotions ahead of her departure on Saturday.

“Preparations have been tedious but all in good favour. I’m fully prepared for the pageant and ready to represent Jamaica. As I have said on numerous occasions, it has always been a dream of mine to represent my country and Miss Jamaica World has provided me with that opportunity.”

White Barrett is all set to channel her nervous energy into something positive.

“My mother always says if you aren’t nervous then you are not human. So, I’m definitely a little nervous and anxious, but that in itself pushes me… Pushes me to be the best that I can and it gives me that encouragement and motivational nudge —that adrenalin rush to present the best me.”

“Jamaica’s history at Miss World is more a push for me to do my best. Jamaica generally stands out on the world stage, but yes, having so many of our beauty queens of the past perform so well does put a bit of a pressure on me, but I’m grateful because that pushes and motivates me to do more,” she stated.

A number of Jamaica’s designers and retailers have joined forces to pull together a wardrobe for the queen.

DrennaLuna, Heather Laine, Keneea Linton, Courtney Washington Flowerchild 1999, Escala, Puma, LeeAnn Designz, Bliss Bridal, Abstractions, Anarchy and Sophia Max Brown. The Finishing Touch has provided jewellery to accessorise the outfits.

The queen is pleased with the collection and finds it difficult to pick a favourite.

“I have many favourite pieces. They are all very comfortable ,practical and not to mention stylish. There are a few pieces that I am in love with so I can’t choose one… I am thinking of about six of them that fit my personal style to a T — sleek modern and very couture.”

Jamaica has won the title on three occasions — Carole Joan Crawford (1963), Cindy Breakespeare (1976), and Lisa Hanna (1993).

– Richard Johnson