Kelsie Spaulding, a first-year Integrated Marketing Communications student at the University of the West Indies (Mona), walked away the winner of the 2026 Miss George Alleyne Hall title last Saturday night.

The coronation, which took place on the grounds of the George Alleyne Hall, saw seven young ladies competing for the title and a chance to represent their hall in the Miss UWI (Mona) pageant.

Spaulding, a former Ardenne High student, says the win will provide a platform for her project, Her Space, which targets children in schools.

“I wanted a bigger platform for my passion project, Her Space, which is about healing, education and resilience. I mentor young girls, teaching them how to use art for mental wellness. I am very excited to work with young people, and I am also very elated, grateful and excited for the upcoming year,” Spaulding told Observer Online moments after the pageant ended.

Spaulding continued, “I just feel very blessed to have the support system that I have and also to possess the talents that I have. It’s like God is doing a big one on me and I’m so happy.”

The other contestants were Antigua and Barbuda native Lesheka Hodge, Katia Anglin, Antoinette Robinson, Barbados native Talia Small, Moiya Richardson and Justeena Rhone.

Hodge and Anglin finished in second and third place, respectively.

“It has been rigorous and to come out as first runner-up, it’s exactly what I was going for. I wanted the experience and I took away sisterhood, because we were in this to help each other. The sisterhood that we shared was amazing and I am elated and full of gratitude,” said Hodge, who is pursuing management studies with a major in psychology and international relations.

History and international relations first-year student Katia Anglin fought to hold back tears during her interview.

“I know how much hard work and how many tears I’ve cried to make it here, and I’m so proud of myself and so proud of my girls for making it this far. I love being at George Alleyne Hall, the spirit here is so beautiful,” said Anglin.

Hodge collected three sectional prizes, Best Creative Piece, Best Talent and Miss Congeniality, while Talia Small was awarded Most Poised.

Spaulding won the Living Gem Award, Most Aware, Most Confident and Most Popular on Social Media.

Lesheka Hodge, first runner-up in the Miss George Alleyne Hall UWI pageant.

Katia Anglin, second runner-up in the Miss George Alleyne Hall UWI pageant.