Adorya Baly, Miss BVI 2015, crowns Erika Creque shortly after she was announced winner of the 2016 competition at the Multi-purpose Sports Complex on Aug. 1. Photo: NGOVOU GYANG

At 14-years-old, Erika Creque first dreamed about winning the Miss British Virgin Islands crown.

Adorya Baly, Miss BVI 2015, crowns Erika Creque shortly after she was announced winner of the 2016 competition at the Multi-purpose Sports Complex on Aug. 1. Photo: NGOVOU GYANG
Seven years later, on August 1, beads of tears rolled down the former H. Lavity Stoutt Community College student’s face after she was announced the winner of the Miss British Virgin Islands Pageant.

Supporters rushed the stage at the Multi-purpose Sports Complex cheering as the 21-year old beauty queen was crowned after edging out the other pageant hopefuls, a group that included Mindy Paul, Reba Thomas and Lakiesha Claxton.

The pageant, which began promptly at 8 p.m., featured the women in various sections of competition including talent, intellect, evening wear, swimwear, cultural wear and ambassadorial speeches.

The competition was organized in alignment with international standards, according to Janette Brin, chair of the Miss British Virgin Islands Pageant Committee.

“I think the night went exceptionally well. We had a very short time to put this show together,” Ms. Brin said. “It is a lot of work, but I am very proud of all the young ladies. They gave it their all… they are all winners. They have some strong platforms that they believe in.”

Ms. Creque will now advance to represent the Virgin Islands at the internationally televised Miss Universe Pageant in January 2017.

Shortly after the competition ended, she told the media outlets present that she was up to the task.

“The stage is set. It’s my job to ensure that the BVI gets somewhere and I will do that,” the new Miss BVI said, adding she is ready to “prepare, prepare, prepare.”

See the August 11, 2016 edition for full coverage.

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