Miss Jamaica Caribbean Talented Teens learn about empowerment

Curtis Campbell, Gleaner Writer

Local cable Channel MDTV recently held a celebrity empowerment session at the University of Technology for the contestants of this year's Miss Jamaica Caribbean Talented Teens competition.

The session was geared towards boosting self-esteem and confidence in the young ladies.

The young contestants were encouraged to exercise belief in themselves and were enlightened about true beauty.

According to Talisa Taylor, the programme's manager, true beauty is within and the youths should be cognisant of that, especially in a society where people are being judged according to their appearance.

"Hard work and determination is the key to success, that is the message we want to send, as well as we want these girls to know that even if they fail the journey never ends, they should get up after every disappointment," she told The Gleaner.

The jovial radio personality Black Barbie, from United States-based Parti FM, carried out MC duties for the event.

Barbie said she was happy to be in Jamaica to participate in the venture geared at the facilitation of empowerment.

tips on confidence

Barbie also gave priceless tips about confidence and beauty; she even attempted to get the ladies to believe her catch phrase "Everything Pretty". Her set was well received by the young contestants who rewarded her with hugs and cheers.

Upcoming artiste Delus, who made a cameo appearance at the event, also gave advice to the contestants.

The artiste encouraged the girls to practice good posture, keeping their heads held high and asked that they make sure to be themselves.

The Sticky, a road singer was also joined by the Jamaican artiste Barbee and upcoming artiste and Pulse model Nicole Grey.

Grey also spoke about beauty being on the inside and advised the ladies that less was the best, and they should be themselves and remain natural.

She then gave away a cash prize as an incentive to the girl that she thought walked with the most confidence.

Taylor concluded the proceeding with a small end note.

"It is very important for us here at MDTV to make such a positive move. I am thankful to Nicole, Barbee, Delus and Black Barbie for taking part in this session. It means a lot to the ladies, and it shows just how much these entertainment personalities care about youth development and growth," she said.

The competition will be on August 20 at 7:30 p.m at The Louise Bennett Garden Theatre.