Beyond Beauty Deidria Watt

Natalia Oh, Contributor

The statuesque beauty that is Deidria Watt, who was recently crowned the Miss Festival Queen Manchester 2014, is confident yet humble. She is well-spoken, with an inner exuberance that resonates with everyone in her presence, and her smile brightens a room. In this day and age of tweaking and debauchery, her poise is reminiscent of the Elizabethan era. At just 20 years old, its hard not to be amazed by all that she has accomplished.

She seems like someone who has it all under control - every word that leaves her mouth is carefully thought out and executed. This kind of self-control and discipline naturally leads to a life of success - academically, professionally, and in Deidria's case, spiritually, as she is a recent 'born again' Christian.

The proud recipient of the 2012 Governor General Award for Youth Development and Excellence for the parish of Manchester, founder and principal of the school, Jamaica Youth Inspired Network, founder of a non-governmental organisation, and the youngest person ever to be employed by the largest insurance company in Jamaica - one wonders what drives this young woman to accomplish so much in such a short period of time.

Growing up, life was not an easy road for Watt, as her mother migrated to further her studies and, soon after, her father was tragically murdered when she was only eight years old. Watt was raised by her grandmother who taught her that the only way out of poverty was through education and hard work. Watt has always gone above and beyond in her pursuit of excellence. While her classmates were preparing for an average of eight CXC subjects, Watt was preparing for 11 - all of which she passed.

Watt has had her share of mockery and disdain spewed at her from some who see her as someone who is aloof and possibly haughty. Having been the victim of bullying, she tells Outlook, "For everyone that has made my life, at some point, a challenge, it has never stirred anger, though it might have hurt, but it has empowered me to be stronger and resistant to other situations which have allowed me to identify with others. I believe that every strong individual must endure a 'process' to rid their beings of impurities and weaknesses."

On her way to gaining her law degree, she shares with Outlook, "my aim is to foster youth development through mentorship, talent development, sex education, and personal development. This has continued to impact my life greatly as I am currently working on a handbook for women addressing issues of their sexuality and spiritualism." With young women like these, their future and the future of our country looks very bright indeed.

1. How do you spend your weekends?

My weekends are dedicated to extra reading, listening to motivational speakers like Les Brown, spending time with family, writing, and going to church on Sundays.

2. Where is your favourite vacation spot in Jamaica?

I love beaches off the coast of Negril, but I'm in awe of the Dunn's River Falls in Ocho Rios, It's absolutely amazing.

3. Where is your dream international vacation spot?

I am intrigued by the Palm Islands in Dubai. The creativity and style of the country reflects a unique dimension of culture and aura that I would love to experience. The architecture is so unique and I hear the food is great, so that's a plus.

4. Who is your favourite author?

Ben Carson. His book 'Gifted Hands' is an insightful piece of literature and is a big motivator for me. As an ambitious black woman, I am able to identify with many of the defining moments in his story.

5. What is the best advice you have ever received?

A dear friend of mine, Lennox Christie, once told me: "The life you live today affects your tomorrow, so make the best of moments - be reasonable, live your dreams, be disciplined, work hard, live by faith, stay focused."

6. What is the charity that means most to you ?

Youth advocacy and empowerment - defending and supporting human rights, advocating for substantive growth and development. United Nations Female Empowerment and Mentorship is also a passion of mine. I enjoy working with community-based projects and small NGOs like Young Women of Purpose and Jamaica Youth Inspired Network both of which I am actively engaged in.

Credits:

Stylist - Photographer - Makeup: Natalia Oh!www.nataliaoh.com

Twitter and Instagram @imajumaican

Clothing provided by:

Karlene's Kloset

2 Perth Road

Brumalia Towne Centre

Mandeville

876-340-6796

Some shots on location:

Bloomfield Greathouse

Perth Road

Mandeville

876-962-7130