Four months after she was crowned Miss Jamaica World 2025 (the coronation was delayed due to the passage of Hurricane Melissa last year), Nevaeh Allen says she is in preparation mode for the Miss World finals scheduled to be held in Vietnam in September.

In an interview with the Jamaica Observer on Thursday, Allen, a 19-year-old business and finance student at the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC), spoke about the highlight of her experience thus far holding the title.

“My reign has been a rewarding experience so far, and I’ve been enjoying all aspects of being a new queen. One of my favourite parts has been attending events, especially those centred around charity. I’ve had the privilege of meeting and sharing conversations with people from different backgrounds, including public figures, ambassadors, and government officials. Being a social person, this has made me feel even more connected to others. During this time, I’ve also been preparing for my departure in August for Miss World, focusing on my projects and personal development,” said Allen, who hails from the community of Ewarton in St Catherine.

The former Ardenne High student is happy to be able to utilise her platform for good.

“The highlight so far has been being able to make my family, friends, and loved ones proud. Also, knowing that I have the opportunity to represent my country on an international level. Every experience has reinforced the importance of using my voice and title to make a positive impact. The relationships I’ve built, the lives I’ve touched, and the people I’ve met have made this journey truly unforgettable,” she said.

Allen had always had a passion for pageantry ever since she won Miss Jamaica High school a few years ago.

“I have always wanted to be involved in pageantry. Ever since I was young I’ve watched pageants on television and read about Jamaican queens who have brought titles home for our country. After entering and winning my high school pageant, Miss Jamaica High School, I realised this might be a calling for me, and it quickly became something I greatly enjoy,” said Allen.

She shared that it has been challenging juggling fulfilling her duties as Miss Jamaica World while balancing studies as a second-year student at UCC.

“I am very grateful for my university’s support and patience in allowing me flexibility with my courses this year as I prepare for Miss World in Vietnam. Their support, especially with my scholarship, has made this journey possible,” Allen disclosed.

She referenced the strength she has gained from the sisterhood that was created with the other contestants in the Miss Jamaica World pageant.

“We’ve shared so many experiences together, which has helped us build genuine friendships. Whenever our schedules allow, we enjoy catching up, spending time together, and supporting each other both on and off the pageant stage. We are very close,” confirmed Allen.

The journey has included attendance at several meaningful functions and some public appearances for worthy causes.

“Since being crowned Miss Jamaica World, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in several meaningful activities and events. One standout experience was our Labour Day project at the Randolph Lopez School of Hope, where we helped clean and repaint the multi-purpose court and refresh classrooms for the students. I’ve also supported the launch of Lisa Hanna Beauty skincare brand and visited the Heart Foundation of Jamaica to learn more about the important work they do in health care. These experiences have allowed me to connect with communities, represent the organisation, and serve Jamaica in a meaningful way,” Allen said.

The 2026 Miss Jamaica World pageant is already in high gear, with regional pageants getting ready to crown their new delegates.

Dahlia Harris of Crown of Beauty Jamaica Limited, organisers of the Miss Jamaica World pageant, provided insight into what pageant fans can expect this year.

“As we look ahead to Miss Jamaica World 2026, we are excited about expanding the reach and impact of the franchise across the island and beyond. One of our major goals this year is to create greater access and opportunities for young women through a stronger regional recruitment initiative, allowing us to discover talent, purpose, and potential in communities right across Jamaica. We are also exploring the opening of applications to Jamaican women in the Diaspora who believe they have the passion, intellect, and commitment to proudly represent Jamaica on the international stage.

“Jamaica’s story is global, and we recognise that many young Jamaican women abroad still carry a deep connection to their heritage and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the country’s representation. Miss Jamaica World has always been about more than beauty — it is about leadership, advocacy, culture, and national pride. For 2026, we hope to continue building a platform that is more inclusive, empowering, and reflective of the diverse excellence of Jamaican women everywhere,” Harris told the Observer.

In reference to the regional competitions, she said: “The Eastern and Western regions are ahead with their auditions, Southern has just opened applications, and we expect that the Northern region will announce their dates soon. With the Fast Track events and the emphasis on Beauty with a Purpose, finding a Miss Jamaica World is not an easy task, but they have been collaborating with stakeholders on the ground to identify suitable candidates.”

The coronation of Miss Jamaica World 2026 is scheduled for November.

Allen had some advice for delegates wishing to pursue the Miss Jamaica World crown.

“I hope these young ladies embrace every moment of the journey. My advice is to stay authentic, trust the process, and never underestimate the power of hard work and confidence. Enjoy the experience, learn from it, and make memories that will stay with you long after the competition is over,” she said.