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My year as Miss Jamaica World 1979, will not only be remembered by what I’ve taken from it but by what I’ve become by it, says Debbie Campbell as she reflected on her year long reign.
On August 23, 1980 in the crowded National Area beautiful vivacious Debbie Campbell took her last parade as Miss Jamaica (World) 1979. She flashed her alluring smile as she walked gracefully down the platform. The audience, rapturously applauded – an ovation and a farewell to a wonderful Queen.
“The Jamaican public has always made me feel like one of them, they have always identified with me. Their response to me has enabled me to perform confidently, especially during the Miss World contest,” said Debbie.
More mature, confident Debbie feels that winning the Miss Jamaica (World) contest has helped her to become more mature and confident. “Talking to people makes you more aware of all that’s happening around you in a more forceful way than just reading about it in the newspaper. My range of conversational topics has expanded. I have learnt tact and not least of all I am better acquainted with all aspects of socials etiquette.
She plans to continue working at Martin’s Rent A-Car and studying part time as she qualifies herself for entry to Law faculty at the University of the West Indies. She also finds time to pursue a part time secretarial course and to take driving lessons.
Debbie is happy for her successor Michelle Ann Harris and exults. “She has an excellent chance she could well be another Miss World.
Pride, Loyalty
To her Jamaican people, this former queen makes a last call. I make a last call for more unity among us in the face of all that’s happening to us now. If we Jamaicans war against ourselves we are only hurting ourselves. I’ve tried to represent us abroad to the best of my ability but it is hard to deny the internal violence that is present here. Let us be proud Jamaicans. Let us teach our children this pride and loyalty in our homes and in our schools. Again unity MUST be our theme. I thank you all and I love you.
Debbie’s year? A year of ups and downs more ups than downs. She is very beautiful – a beauty that has blossomed over the months. Her crown has sparkled with thousands of miles of travel glowed with many priceless friendships and a wealth of experience.
Debbie Campbell, a queen in retrospect. Her reign is over but she is not stepping down. Instead she steps up to a new life, a new challenge. And as she goes Jamaicans say, “Good luck Debbie – a way of acknowledging her service as Miss Jamaica (World) 1979 which brought honour and glory to her country.
Source: The Sunday Gleaner Magazine
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