KAYDIA Mckoy, the woman who bravely battled breast cancer, shared her story with millions of people around the world, who has become an advocate for women with the disease, and whose philanthropy has helped others, is the new Cosmos Queen Of Jamaica.

Mckoy, 35, was sashed at the AC Marriott Hotel in St Andrew on August 24, during the Mrs Universe Jamaica pageant.

“I decided to enter the Mrs Universe Jamaica pageant to challenge myself, build my self-confidence, and most importantly, to use the platform to share my journey as a breast cancer survivor,” she told
All Woman.

“I want women to know that there is life after cancer. I am truly honoured and grateful for this experience, competing alongside some of the most phenomenal women, and being supported by an amazing team, including my mentor, choreographer, make-up artist, and designers. Each one was inspiring and made this journey unforgettable.”

She said going into the competition, she wasn’t focused on winning the crown, and simply wanted to use the platform to build her confidence and share her story.

“But as the competition went on, I felt motivated by the spirit of the event, all while respecting the journeys of the other contestants. For me, it’s all about women supporting women, and my motto remains, ‘your fight is my fight’.”

Mckoy said while stepping on stage for the opening number, she spotted her daughter in the audience.

“Seeing her there filled me with emotion as I reflected on my journey. She was recording me on her tablet, and in my mind, I was telling myself, ‘no mistakes, she’s watching’. I wanted nothing more than to make my daughter and family proud.

“The cancer community was rooting for me—I am their ray of hope and a tower of strength. A few women currently fighting the disease told me that my journey gave them hope. My courage to embrace my scars and shine boldly inspired them to keep fighting.”

During the competition, Mckoy was also awarded three sectional prizes – for congeniality, best interview, and best fashion, and in total collected four trophies and one certificate.

“When my name was called three times, I knew I had made my mark. I stood there proudly as my family and friends cheered me on. This was a major accomplishment at age 35, especially as a survivor who never gave up,” she said.

She said though she initially competed for the Mrs Universe Jamaica title, she is honoured to hold the title of Cosmos Queen of Jamaica.

“I am committed to using my title to empower women in Jamaica and beyond. I will soon head to Europe to represent Jamaica and compete internationally,” she said. “I am energised and ready for whatever new experiences come my way. I know I will continue to make an impact on the lives around me and make a difference because I embrace who I am and what I represent.”

For women, she had this message: “Turn your struggles into strength. Love and embrace who you are, stay positive, and be a keeper for your sisters and brothers. Find projects that help others, maintain your mental health, and share your journey to inspire others. Doing so will help you build confidence and self-love.”

“I want to thank Mrs Shannon Green, our first Mrs Universe Jamaica and pageant director, for her unwavering support,” Mckoy added. “She worked tirelessly for us and demonstrated true leadership qualities. Her dedication to empowering women is something we can all take away from this pageant.”

Late last year, Mckoy, who heads the foundation Heads Up For Pink, and who is giving back to survivors through her Pink In June project, released her first book,
Courage In Bloom — A Daughter’s Love, A Mother’s Victory: Conquering Breast Cancer Together.

Mckoy was 30 years old when she felt the lump that would change her life. Breast cancer was confirmed at age 31.

Her own personal struggles would guide the steps she took after diagnosis and treatment to start her foundation. Today, in survivorship, Mckoy is committed to help women who are fighting breast cancer.