Twenty-five-year-old Rachel Silvera copped the Miss Universe Jamaica title at the grand coronation held at the AC Hotel Kingston on Sunday.

The newly crowned queen, who hails from St Mary, and is an entrepreneur and pharmacy student at the University of Technology, Jamaica, emerged as the top contender from among 27 finalists.

Sara-Jade Kow, a 30-year-old real estate professional and entrepreneur, was the first runner-up, while 23-year-old Keri-Ann Greenwood, Miss Universe Jamaica East, was named second runner-up.

It was an emotional moment for Silvera and her family, after finally tasting victory following her first runner-up position in the 2022 staging of the pageant.

Her mother, Barbara Thomas, was confident that she would have lifted the crown this time around.

“She was well into it. She put her all into it; she had late hours… She just went out and said she’s going to get the crown. I said, ‘Yes, go get the crown.’ I knew she would have. She was quite prepared,” Thomas told the Jamaica Observer shortly after the crowning in the wee hours of Monday morning.

“I’m overly excited… that’s my daughter, that’s my queen!” said Thomas as she looked at her second of five children adoringly, both fighting back tears.

She said further that Silvera had a village of endorsement as she embarked on the journey.

“The family has been very, very supportive of her. Her siblings, her grandma, her friend, the whole social media… everybody supported her,” she added.

Silvera will go on to represent Jamaica at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico.

She also won sectional prizes for the swimwear challenge, people’s choice, best in on-stage interview challenge, and best in evening gown.

The coronation was attended by a guest of honour — the reigning Miss Universe Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua.

Despite arriving after midnight due-delayed flights, Palacios expressed gratitude for being invited to share in the event.

“I’m so happy to be here. I’m so excited to share with all of you this wonderful and special moment. To me, the next delegate is going to represent in Mexico for the next edition of Miss Universe 2024. I’m so happy and grateful to all of you who waited for hours,” she said as she greeted the packed ballroom.

There were also live performances by Jaz Elise, Rajesh McLean, and Gem Myers.