By Jasminee Sahoye

The Miss Caribbean Canada Pageant (MCCP), which is being held under the theme Ladies it’s your time to shine, will see some 23 young ladies representing the countries/islands of the Caribbean.

This year, the event will be held at the Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA), Arrow Road on December 1 with part proceeds going to the Sickle Cell Association of Ontario.

According to organizers, the pageant will showcase a dazzling array of beauty, talent, cultural and awareness. “The MCCP committee will be focusing on the rich heritage of the Caribbean and Canada with special emphasis on education, talent, business and tourism through the representation of the contestants,” a release from the committee said.

The organizers added that unlike previous years, the production has been revamped to make every seat feel like a front row seat and special VIP area has been designed for consulates representing each island and special dignitaries in attendance.

The first place winner will receive $1000 in cash along with four beauty package gift certificates and gift baskets. She will also make guest appearances at various events.  There will also be second and third place winners.

The Miss Caribbean Canada Pageant formerly Miss Lloyd’s Photography Pageant was established nine years ago, when businessman/photographer, Mr. Lloyd Dwyer, who gained many accreditations and awards for his work, decided to work with young ladies in the community to improve their outlook on life and image appearance.

His efforts have been well received in the community, resulting in young ladies excelling in different fields.  The latest is Brandy Henry, the 1998 Queen, who has recently crown Miss Black World U.S.A in March 2000.

The reigning queen Miss Ederle Dover is currently attending the University of Windsor completing her studies to become a film director and eventually owning her production company.

For more information, please visit www.misscaribbeancanada.ca