The Jamaica Observer continues its reflection on the year in entertainment. This daily column looks on the achievers, trendsetters, those who died, and the controversies.

When Kadijah Robinson, Miss Jamaica World 2018, made the top five at the Miss World finals on December 8 in Sanya, China, she became the seventh Jamaican to reach thus far in the pageant.

Solange Sinclair, Miss Jamaica World 2017, made the top 10. Robinson’s placing gave the country its seventh-straight spot in the top 10.

She was also named Continental Queen of Beauty for The Caribbean.

During the almost two-month preparation for the Miss Jamaica World coronation, Robinson said she often felt like withdrawing from the competition.

“There were times when I felt like giving up, especially when things became so overwhelming with travel and expenses. But God brought me through and I’m so happy,” she said.

The 23-year-old physiotherapist and Hampton High School graduate works at Black River Hospital in her native St Elizabeth. She said family and friends encouraged her to enter the contest.

Robinson is the second Miss Jamaica World winner from St Elizabeth in two years. She was preceded by Ashlie Barrett.

Commenting on her performance in China, Robinson said, “I’m feeling humbled more than anything else! The entire experience was an incredible one, and I am extremely grateful to have gone through all of it.”