Shade’ Ashley-Ann Barrett cops Miss Jamaica World Talent title

It was a difficult decision for the judges who adjudicated the Miss Jamaica World fast track Talent competition on Tuesday night at the Little Theatre. The 23 contestants in the pageant delivered noteworthy performances, most of which left an impact on attendees including sponsors, family, friends and members of the media. But at the end of it all, three of the most compelling performances took top honours. From dancing, to singing, skits, players of instruments and dub poetry, the ladies were on point within skipping a beat. Deidre Wadsworth, who is sponsored by Knutsford Express, finished in third place for her skit that spoke about social prejudice.

From left to right, Deidre Wadsworth (2nd runner-up), Shade' Ashley-Ann Barrett (first place winner) and Seana'kaye Wright (first runner-up).

“I feel honoured to have placed in the competition. I put in a lot of practice, and I am pleased with the result,” Wadsworth told Observer Online shortly after the event came to an end. Listen, a platinum selling 2007 hit by Beyonce which is featured in the film Dream Girls, was effectively and emotionally covered by Miss Southdale Hardware & Supplies, Seana’kaye Wright. Her performance rocked the venue and had patrons cheering from start to finish. She finished in second place. “Wow, it was quite a challenge seeing that all the girls are so talented but I came out here and did my part and it’s just an amazing feeling,” said Wright, who was making her third appearance in the top three of the various Miss Jamaica World fast track competitions. But it was the powerful and dynamic creative dance by Miss Apex Radiology, Shade’ Ashley-Ann Barrett, that won the judges’ votes. She finished in first place and has advanced to the top 12 of the finals of the Miss Jamaica World competition. “This is definitely a surprise. I know I put my best foot forward and just like the other ladies, we all did our best. I must thank the people who helped me on this journey; this is indeed a great honour,” said Barrett. The other fast track competitions to come are Top Model (Wednesday October 28 at the Hyundai Showroom) and Beauty with a Purpose. The coronation of Miss Jamaica World 2026 will take place on Sunday, November 1 at the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium, Jamaica College.