By Andrew Clunis
Outgoing Miss Jamaica Festival Queen Brithney Clarke is on a journey. The clock is ticking on her reign but not her life. She intends to carry on the work she embarked on as queen and she does not rule out service in public life in the future.
She has stood out as a queen with the highlight of her reign being her national project the Read Speak Lead initiative which saw her rolling out a motivational and developmental project across the country.
She said: “The highlight of my reign was the execution of my project. We were able to impact nearly 300 children in 36 schools across six parishes. The greatest impact was seeing the growth in the children we interacted with and seeing the live growth from the start to the end of the sessions in literacy, reading and public speaking.”
She completed over 100 appearances across the island, which included school visits, outreach initiatives, workshops, interviews, hosting, judging and attending events.
The crown has afforded her the opportunity to hobnob with a wide array of people all of whom were special in their own way. “I’ve met a lot of interesting persons along the way. So many people who show that there are so many ways to lead. So many ways to be inspired. I was exposed to different people with different perspectives and that gave me a real appreciation of people.”
And what would she say to other young ladies who are contemplating entering the competition?
“I participated in a total of nine pageants across the years. The Festival Queen Competition was the best by far. It is more than a competition. It develops young women. It is a holistic developmental programme. I would say to everybody who is looking for a way to grow, go for it. It is an opportunity of a lifetime.”
And what does the future hold for Brithney?
“The future is very bright. I find ways to step into spaces so people can look out for much more to come. I like to take opportunities as they come. I see myself in nation building and advocacy.”
And will she be bitten by the political bug?
“I am open to exploring opportunities that come and anything that supports my core values and aligns with the trajectory of my life. Let’s see what the future holds.
She is currently serving as a board member of the University Council of Jamaica and serves as Regional Manager for Miss Jamaica World East.
“The journey continues. I was active before the title and my mission will continue. Regarding the Project Finale, I had to reschedule from July 18, and it should be taking place by October, so the work continues beyond the crown.
There are great things to come,” she said.