CHARLESTOWN, Nevis – CULTURAMA 35 has come and gone, and with it the Miss Culture 2009 Pageant. This year’s Miss Culture is the supremely fit Masinda Nisbett who took time out from her busy schedule as queen to answer a few questions posed by SKNVibes.
SKNVibes: In your new position as queen, what do you intend to do?
MN: Like a true ambassador, it is my desire to maintain my status in a positive way and be a beacon for other young people to emulate. I hope to promote my country and showcase my talent. And in this medium, it would reflect some of the positive aspects that Nevisians have to offer and highlight my country wherever I go.
SKNVibes: How do you feel about your win?
MN: I am elated to have accomplished one of my personal achievements to be crowned Miss Culture 2009-2010. I feel proud to have taken up the challenge to participate in such an honoured competition and emerge victorious through all my hard work.
SKNVibes: What cause do you intend to lend your voice to as queen of Nevis, and how do you intend to contribute to the betterment of the island as its queen and representative?
MN: With the prevalence of health issues such as AIDS and breast cancer, I have been cognizant that many Nevisians are not yet fully sensitised about the severity of these issues and general heath. Through my research, especially with breast cancer, I feel that it is imperative of me to further sensitise and help to remove the stigmas attached to these diseases. Furthermore, it is so sad that many young persons are still gambling their lives with the epidemic of AIDS, and I hope to assist in any forum that can positively make a difference.
SKNVibes: Was it your first show?
MN: This has been my first onstage experience but it certainly would not be my last.
SKNVibes: What life lessons have you learnt from the pageant?
MN: There is no single lesson that I have learnt from this pageant. I have gained many valuable things and it has enabled me to develop more respect and value for the opinion of others. I have gained more confidence through criticism and I have learnt the importance of time management, better health care and the importance of my spiritual blessing.
SKNVibes: What was the experience like?
MN: Contrary to the fact that this was my first pageant, the experience was better than I had imagined. It was quite an emotional experience. I had fun even though it was a bit tedious which is what gave me the encouragement to persevere, but overall the experience was educational, fulfilling and exciting.
SKNVibes: What encouraged you to participate in the pageant?
MN: After I was approached by a member of the Ms. Culture Committee, it sparked an interest and I was further encouraged by my family and friends. I felt it would be an ideal opportunity to make my personal contribution towards Culturama 35.
SKNVibes: Would you encourage others to enter this pageant, and why?
MN: The word encourage in this scenario is indeed an understatement. My experience with this pageant has helped to shape my character. I have learnt to amplify traits that could further assist me later in life. This pageant is a positive avenue and a stepping stone to attain great achievements in life.
SKNVibes: How helpful were your sponsors?
MN: My sponsor was of tremendous assistance. I was indeed honoured to be sponsored by Coastal Air Transport, and during the short time I was affiliated with Mike not only did his financial assistance contribute towards my success but he was a source of inspiration towards my personal development. I am also indeed grateful for the financial assistance of Heights Construction of St Croix.
SKNVibes: Is there anyone else that you would like to thank?
MN: I wish to convey sincere gratitude and thanks to both of my parents, Masefield Nisbett and Florinda Gumbs, my sponsor Coastal Air Transport and Heights Construction in St. Croix, my hardworking and creative team Miss Mickia Mills, Dianne Hobson, Judy Archer, Jean Caines and Samuel Matthew. My seamstress Stella Clarke, Michlette Mills, Vaughn Anslyn, my supporters, my former classmates and my friends.
SKNVibes: Are there any other pageants that you would like to enter?
MN: Initially, I was never an ardent lover of pageants but this pageant has certainly tickled my fancy and has made me enthusiastic about entering other pageants.
