Halima Haughton, a student at the University of Technology, Jamaica, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Applied Science, was on Saturday night crowned Miss Jamaica World Northern.

The coronation, which took place at Bahia Principe Hotel’s Jamrock Theatre in St Ann, saw seven ladies competing for the title.

Terry Ann Wilson and Danece Jacas, who finished second and third respectively, will join Haughton as automatic finalists in the 2025 national Miss Jamaica World pageant.

Rajeish McLean, franchisee for Miss Jamaica World Northern Region, told the Jamaica Observer on Monday that he is pleased with the activities of the coronation show; his first at the helm.

“We are truly grateful for how much love and energy came through for the event. The turnout was fantastic! We had a great crowd, and the support from everyone was overwhelming for myself and all the contestants,” said McLean.

Haughton, who wore an Ernesto Castro designed outfit during the coronation, explained why she decided to enter the pageant.

“I entered the pageant because I see it as a platform to combine two things I’m passionate about — personal growth and meaningful advocacy. I’ve always wanted to challenge myself to step outside my comfort zone, but more importantly, I wanted to use the opportunity to amplify conversations around environmental sustainability and resilience,” said Haughton, who hails from Claremont in St Ann.

She added: “The journey has been both challenging and rewarding. The environment encouraged me… and moulded me into my ultimate self.”

Asked what she felt gave her the edge over the other contestants, Haughton shared: “I believe it was my stage presence and confidence, along with the passion I bring to my advocacy. I always try to present myself with poise while staying true to who I am, and I think the judges could see that I am not only committed to my cause but also capable of carrying myself in a way that represents the values of the pageant.”

Speaking about her Beauty with a Purpose project, Haughton said: “ ‘Strengthening Jamaica’s Resilience Through Environmentalism’ is a multifaceted initiative designed to focus on the key aspects of the environment that directly affect our daily lives, such as waste management, sustainable agriculture, the marine environment, climate resilience, and community awareness. The aim is to amplify the importance of sustainable development and innovation fostered by an atmosphere of collaboration between different environmental entities, youth, and the natural environment.

Representing title sponsor BirdShack Fried Chicken CEO Wayne Cummings said partnering with the Miss Jamaica World Northeast team was an easy decision.

“BirdShack operates primarily on the north coast — three locations in St James and one in Ocho Rios — so we believe that the Miss Jamaica World Northern pageant fits our profile,” he said, explaining that company support the development opportunities facilitated by the programme.

Support for the pageant also came from Omnia Sky Lounge, Couples Resorts, G-Link Electronics, Jackie Jackson Entertainment, Creatif Dots Solution, KHRYS & Chris Estate Limited, Irie Punch, and Jewelry Junction.

As Haughton now looks to the grand finals, she gave the Observer insight in the road she will take.

“Preparation, for me, is holistic. Mentally, I’ve been practising mindfulness, reading, and keeping up with current affairs to think critically and communicate effectively. Emotionally, I have a major support team to lean on; my family, friends, and mentors. Physically, I’ve been focusing on maintaining a healthy lifestyle; eating well, staying active, and practising stage presence. It’s all about balance, and I’m making sure that I show up as the best version of myself on every level,” Haughton disclosed.

Sharing the moment with Halima Haughton (left), 2025 Miss Jamaica World Northeast, are St Ann’s Bay Mayor Michael Belnavis and Miss Jamaica World 2024 Tahjae Bennett.

Rajeish McLean (left), franchisee, Miss Jamaica World Northern,and BirdShack Fried Chicken CEO Wayne Cummings congratulate Halima Haughton.