The Tobago Heritage Festival 2026 is nearing its close, but not without revealing the new Ms. Tobago Heritage Festival Personality.
Competition took place on Thursday night at the Shaw Park Complex where seven young women competed against each other in talent, dress design, and intelligence, showcasing the best that Tobago has to offer.
For years the Ms. Tobago Heritage Personality competition was a stage for young women to showcase the island’s heritage through their talents, beauty, grace and poise. This year was no different under the theme “Daughters of Drums and Dreams.”
Contestants displayed their talents, intelligence, gowns, and a video project highlighting unsung women being heroic within their communities. Rising victorious from among seven beautiful, intelligent and talented young women was Kiara Bailey representing Encore Dance Academy.
For her talent, she presented a monologue with dance elements entitled “Stronger Than Hunger”. It highlighted the plight of a woman devoted to her faith but discouraged by enduring hardships. However, through spiritual guidance and community assistance, she is encouraged to stick on the narrow path.
For the evening gown segment, her African inspired piece was called “Bound by the Drum”. It featured a coat lined with goat skin, which when removed revealed a gold and red gown. For placing first, Bailey won a $10,000 cash prize and a $25,000 scholarship. After receiving the crown, she described the victory as a blessing.
“It means that I have to lead by example, lead with purpose, lead with passion, I hope that tonight I would have inspired a lot of young persons and let them know that no matter how they feel, just step into the light and don’t let fear dull your passion.”
Placing second in the competition was Rochelle Frank, representing the Moriah Village Council. She won several prizes including People’s Choice and Ms. Intelligence. Her answer to the question, how would you sell the Tobago Heritage Festival to a tourist who has never been, won the audience’s approval
3rd place went to Yen-K Murray, representing the Scarborough Urban Village Council. She was applauded and won several awards as well for her gown that was designed and made by her, featuring lots of natural elements, called “Earthbound Legacy: Roots of the Suffering”.