Seven young women have successfully qualified to compete in this year’s Ms. Tobago Heritage Personality Competition following the official screening and verification process.
The screening process formed part of the Tobago Heritage Festival 2026 programme and provided an opportunity for prospective delegates to demonstrate their suitability to represent Tobago’s heritage, culture, and communities as ambassadors throughout the competition.
The delegates were assessed by an adjudication panel comprising representatives of the Tobago Festivals Commission Limited (TFCL) and members of the Ms. Tobago Heritage Personality 2026 Committee.
Candidates were required to introduce themselves, participate in an interview segment, and showcase a talent. Each participant was evaluated using a 50-point scoring system across the following criteria:
- Communication – 10 points
- Knowledge of Tobago Heritage – 10 points
- Personality, Poise and Confidence – 10 points
- Talent – 10 points
- Overall Impression – 10 points
All seven participants successfully attained the required standard and have qualified to advance to the next phase of the competition.
The delegates are:
- Kadesha Lovell – Mason Hall
- Nykhya Gardiner – Canaan/Bon Accord/Crown Point Community Council
- Ti-shara Star Jones – Sisters in Culture
- Yen’k Murray – Scarborough Urban Village Council
- Kiara Bailey – Encore Dance Theater
- Rochelle Frank – Moriah Village Council
- Michilla Williams – Signal Hill Community Counci
The delegates will now begin an intensive programme of training, mentorship, community engagement, cultural research, and personal development activities designed to prepare them for the competition and strengthen their capacity as cultural ambassadors.
This year’s Ms. Tobago Heritage Personality Competition is being staged under the theme “Daughters of Drums and Dreams” and seeks to celebrate the women whose contributions have helped shape Tobago’s communities and cultural identity.
Throughout the competition, delegates will honour and showcase the stories of unsung women from across the island.
The competition forms part of the Tobago Heritage Festival, hosted by the Tobago Festivals Commission Limited. In 2026, the Festival celebrates its 39th anniversary under the theme “Leh We Tell De Whole Story”. The Ms Tobago Heritage Personality Competition will take place on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at the Shaw Park Complex.
Members of the public are encouraged to follow the delegates’ journey throughout the festival season and support them as they prepare for the prestigious title. For more information on the Ms. Tobago Heritage Personality Competition and the overall Tobago Heritage Festival 2026, contact the Tobago Festivals Commission Limited or follow @tobagofestivals on social media.