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For the finale, the girls showcased evening gowns,
flamboyant national costumes and answered questions from
the panel of judges to prove they had what it takes to
be an ambassador for the country.
Elegant in shimmering gold, Easher, representing
Providenciales, was asked what changes she would like to
see in the TCI over the next decade.
The 19-year-old replied that Islanders working in unity
was the way forward to make the nation a better place.
First runner-up Breanna Johnson, for North Caicos, in a
floor-sweeping red gown, was quizzed as to whether TCI
was ready for elections next year.
“I feel we should and could be ready. If we come
together and work as one, we would be able to do it as a
country together,” she replied.
Second runner-up Jenniemae Penn, for South Caicos, in a
long, leopard print dress with open sides, was
questioned as to how local health care could be improved.
Despite some heckling from the audience over the still
contentious issue surrounding the new health care
system, Jenniemae suggested a better working environment
for staff and better equipment.
Effervescent in sparkling silver, Anna-Alicia Ariza, for
Grand Turk, received loud applause when asked what she
would do if placed in charge of the country for a day.
“Put my people back in charge,” she responded without
hesitation.
Easher told the Weekly News she was delighted her hard
work had paid off in helping her claim the top accolade.
“I worked so hard, I was practically married to the gym,”
she said with a laugh.
“It was something I really wanted to do since I was a
little girl. Some people were very hard on me and said I
wouldn’t make a good image, others encouraged me and
kept me going.
“I’m just so happy that I stayed focused and determined.”
The new queen, who was crowned by former Miss Earth
Alison Capron, said she plans an active 12-month reign.
“I want to embark on educational campaigns to bring
awareness to child abuse. There’s a lot of things that
go on in the Turks and Caicos that are sadly swept under
the carpet.
“People don’t realise that hitting a child or even
talking to them in a certain way is abuse but it is –
and it happened to me.
“We need to change our behaviour towards that. We can’t
change a whole community but we can let people know this
is going on and try to protect our children, because
they really are our future.”
Easher added: “I would like to thank everyone who helped
make this possible for me, they know who they are.
“And especially my mother who has always been there for
me and continues to be.”
Prizes awarded to the winner included a laptop computer,
a two-night stay at the Somerset resort, dinner for two
at O’Soleil, jewellery, a Tiffany platter and spa
treatments.
Easher will also have the prestigious privilege of
representing her country at the 60th Miss Universe
pageant in Sao Paolo, Brazil, in September.
The pageant formed part of the Provo Summer Festival
activities which culminated with a float parade on
Saturday from Clement Howell High School to the downtown
ball park.
Revellers later gathered for a party downtown.
Thashena Adderley, president of the festival committee,
said the festival had been a success.
“The float parade was a lot of fun. Even though one of
the three trucks broke down we made the most of it.
“Lots of people came out to join in the party afterwards.”
She added: “We most definitely will be doing it again
next year. It’s been done for years and is part of our
culture.
“We can’t let Provo Day die; we will keep fighting to
bring it back to the way it was
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