In a dazzling ceremony held at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel ballroom in New Kingston, 25-year-old Tahje Bennett emerged as the new Miss Jamaica World 2024. For Bennett, a Spanish Town native and soon-to-be student at Norman Manley Law School, this victory marks a triumphant second attempt at the prestigious title.
Bennett credited her success to personal growth and refinement since her previous participation. “I refined my advocacy; I made sure that I showed up as my best self every single time, and that’s all that I did differently,” she shared with the Jamaica Observer. “I was true to myself. I’ve always been authentic to who I am, so just going back, refining the advocacy, and showing up as my best self were what I did differently.”
As the newly crowned queen, Bennett will represent Jamaica at the 72nd Miss World pageant. Her journey to the crown was marked by notable achievements, including winning the Beauty with a Purpose fast track and Multimedia sectional prize. Additionally, she placed in the top three for the Beach Beauty, Top Model, and Sports/Fitness fast track challenges.
Bennett’s platform will focus on advocating for females who have been victims of gender-based violence. “I plan to use my platform to empower and uplift young women and girls because a lot of the time, what a woman or little girl goes through, she feels as if that’s the end of her story. I want to be a testament that that’s not the end of your story, and your sad story doesn’t have to end there — it can be a powerful message for others,” she explained.
The grand coronation show was filled with excitement and celebration, as family, friends, and supporters gathered to enjoy the event hosted by Talia Soares Brown. Despite some entrants not advancing to the top 10, the atmosphere remained spirited with cheers for those who made it. One proud parent expressed happiness over her 18-year-old daughter’s accomplishment as a finalist.
Entertainment highlights included performances by Jodian Pantry and Remone Watson. Watson, who was a top-five finalist in the Mr. World Jamaica pageant, captivated the audience with a memorable rendition of Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes’ “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.”
Reflecting on her achievement, Bennett acknowledged the support of her primary matriarchal figures, attributing her success to their unwavering encouragement and guidance.
