BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE staging of the 2011 Miss Green Valley Queen Pageant is just one month away, and in recognition of all those who supported her during her reign, last year’s winner Ivanka James is saying thank you.
James, who amassed 434 points to win the 2010 pageant, said she would like to say “thank you” to her family, friends and fans for their unwavering support, and also a heartfelt one to her chaperon Kemoy Charles who patiently and diligently worked with her to ensure she was fully prepared for the event.
James told SKNVibes that her reign was okay but not 100 percent, because she was not given the opportunity to do anything as the Miss Green Valley Queen in representation of her community.
The reigning queen said it felt wonderful to win a crown.
“I knew I had it and I knew I could do it, so it was a great feeling. That was my second pageant. I had also entered the Cayon Pacers Miss Netball Pageant where I came Second Runner-up,” she added.
James declared that although she is open to the thought of entering more pageants, she would not do so at this point. Instead, she would like to encourage the 2011 contestants to just go out and do their best.
“Some people are going to have a lot of negative things to say, but just go out, show your talent and skills and have a good time,” she advised.
James, a 24-year-old employee of Kajola Kristada, whipped her closest rival in last year’s pageant by 32 points to take the crown.
She also took the awards for Best Introductory Speech and the Best Talent with a drama and dance presentation urging young people to head for victory lane and stay away from crime and violence.
This year’s pageant is scheduled for Saturday, June 12.
In a recent interview with the Green Valley Festival Chairman, Vernon Benjamin, he indicated that they have already secured five young ladies and were hoping to add one or two more for this year’s pageant.
