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Unforgettable, Challenging, Memories I’ll always Cherish
Miss Jamaica 1990 Erica Aquart – “elegant Erica” as she was dubbed by the press – had many fond memories and thought-provoking insights to share about her year’s reign as it drew to a close. A major high point, for example, was her trip to the Miss World 1990 Contest in London – and no wonder, as she did Jamaica proud by placing among the top six finalists, and becoming the first-ever Miss World Caribbean Queen of Beauty.
The amount of hard work involved in the “job” of being Miss Jamaica was an eye-opener for her. Her demanding schedule included work in schools around the island for the Drug Abuse Secretariat, in addition to the usual round of social, tourism-related and charitable assignments. The most memorable experience for her, however, was the warmth which she shared with her own Jamaican people.
Here, the versatile Queen tells us all about her reign in her own words.
Being crowned Miss Jamaica 1990 was a dream come true. It was something I dreamt about since I was a little girl, not knowing that one day my dream would come true. It was such a great honour and privilege to represent my country, but what made it really special to me was the fact that my fellow-Jamaicans accepted me.
The warmth and sincerity of the people was especially felt whenever I made special guest appearances at functions in the real heart of our country, places I never had the chance to visit before, or wasn’t really familiar with. These feelings I will always cherish.
Being Miss Jamaica is a serious and hard-working responsibility, as it entails countless media and charitable appearances. I had not been aware of the sacrifices regarding my personal time that I would have to make as Miss Jamaica. It is truly a full time job.
The highlight of my reign was my participation in the Miss World Contest held in London in November 1990. I had the opportunity and pleasure to meet 80 girls from all over the world. Although there were language barriers, we still communicated with each other and got the opportunity to sample each country’s culture.
Although I did some work with the Tourist Board here in Jamaica, for example, several radio interviews with stations from around America, my only regret was not being able to promote Jamaica overseas on a larger scale with the Tourist Board.
My greatest educational experience was working with the Women’s Centre. I went to different schools and centre, where I learned the act of sharing, caring, and helping other young ladies by being an encourager more than a role model. This was a humbling experience for me and I hope eventually to be a part of this organization.
On a more personal note, I would really like to thank my parents and my family for all the support they have given me. I’m glad I was given the opportunity to make them proud, especially my Mom and Dad.
Source: 1991 Miss Jamaica World Souvenir Magazine
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