by: Nicole Stewart - the COR - www.thecorsource.com - October 20th, 2009
A wave of Caribbean heat washed into Toronto last weekend at the first annual Miss Creole Canada Pageant. On a cool October evening; Saturday the 17 to be exact, La Villa Ballroom erupted in cheers as the contestants came on-stage in beautiful island inspired yellow dresses.
Wait; what’s the big deal? Is this about another pageant?
Yes it is another pageant, but let’s not be entirely cynical about it.
As Afro-Caribbean’s and visible minorities we need to appreciate events that promote our cultures, costumes and create a sense of belonging. So easily can we get caught up with the mores of our adopted homeland; and by no means am I implying that we reject our Canadian culture, I simply feel it is paramount that we embrace and celebrate our Caribbean heritage. The pageant seemed to have that in mind, as evidenced in the title; signalling an understanding of the interplay between both cultures. Furthermore, cultural pageants give us the opportunity to see beauty outside of the North American standard.
Back to the big deal…
As the sweet sounds of the Caribbean flooded the air it was difficult not to be in a festive and cheerful mood. The nine contestants representing the islands of St. Lucia, Haiti and Dominica started the show on a high which continued on throughout the night.
The contestants pictured above are; Yamiley Theodore, Tatiana Sylvain, Orphanie Leroy, Barbara Dorsaint, Fernande Jean Louis and Medjy Mezilus of Haiti, Kanika Ambrose and Roxann Thomas of Dominica, and Jamie Lynell Ellis of St. Lucia.
As with most pageants the contestants were judged on swimsuit, talent and evening gown. However, my favourite was the National garment portion. I enjoyed that section as the stage lit up in a kaleidoscope of colour. Yes we too in the islands have beautiful traditional wear, I thought to myself with a smile. I could tell the audience echoed my sentiments as they cheered on the contestants. The talent segment was also noteworthy, with talents ranging from powerful vocals to thought provoking monologues.
As 11pm drew near one would assume the pageant would be over, but in true island style; we don’t watch time. So the hosts joked on, and the audience revelled in it. Soon after the contestants were narrowed down to the top five.
Drumroll please!!
Jamie Lynell Ellis of St. Lucia swept the evening, winning the title of Miss Creole Canada, as well as best talent, swimsuit, evening gown & National wear! Along with the title and monetary gains, part of the proceeds of the night will go to an established charity in Jamie’s homeland.
I am pleased to say, this was another Saturday night well spent.
