The special needs and disabled communities will be the focus of the 2024 Miss Manchester Festival Queen Shonnoya Houston during her reign.

The 25-year-old special educator shared the details of her community project following a glittering coronation spectacular held at the Belair High School in Mandeville.

From the outset, a confident Houston expressed her deep commitment to advocating for persons with disabilities, emphasising her strong desire to empower members of this community to achieve their full potential.

Her dedication shone brightly during the gripping question-and-answer segment, where she was asked about her preferred government ministry and priorities. Without hesitation, Houston chose the Ministry of Education, articulating her desire for the establishment of policies that offer crucial training and support for individuals in the special needs and disabled communities, particularly post-secondary education.

“My project, known as The Special Aid Project, focuses on advocacy for inclusion of persons with disabilities. It will be geared towards promoting awareness of persons with disabilities, and raising funds to assist persons with special needs who may be in need. As a special educator I chose this project as I have found that for far too long persons with disabilities have been underserved. These persons have so much to offer, so I am here to honour that potential and offer as much support as I can,” Houston shared.

A crowd-favourite, Houston claimed four of the six sectional prizes at her coronation. She took home the awards for Most Culturally Aware, Most Poised, Most Active in the Community, and Best Performance.

These Grand National Coronation will take place on August 3.

The theme for this year’s competition is ‘The Jamaican Woman: Creativity beyond boundaries’.