The pageant, which dates back to 2017, is intended to highlight the achievements of Ciceron residents, from costume designers to aspiring models.
Castries South MP Ernest Hilaire says the Pageant continues reshaping the view of Ciceron in the eyes of passers-by and tourists.
“We wanted an activity that would focus on young mothers in the community for them to showcase the talent that they have. Of course, it expanded for us to focus on the community and to show that Ciceron is a place that Saint Lucians can come and discover, a place where persons can live and enjoy,” Hilaire explained.
The MP notes the the changes between the first and current iteration of the Ciceron Pageant.
“I remember the first pageant, the turnout, and I remember last year when we didn't even have enough space for all the persons who wanted to come to the pageant. So we've seen the growth, we've seen the evolution, and I'm really thankful for everyone who has worked over the years to make this the success that it has been,” Hilaire explained.
Chair of the Carnival Planning and Management Committee, Tamara Gibson, says the Committee hopes to foster and grow community events.
Ciceron Carnival is part of other community carnival events like Gros Islet Carnival, geared at fostering community integration. National Carnival celebrations run from July 1st to 17th and will feature the usual calypso and soca competitions.
“Two areas are at the core of our mission for St. Lucia Carnival and they are sustainability and inclusivity. Seeing your continued hosting of Ciceron Carnival helps support our mission.
For sustainability, we know that many of the National Carnival Queen contestants we see are born from community pageants just like this one. They step onto this stage to help prepare them for the national level,” she said.
The six contestants vying for the crown are:
Contestant #1 - Lexy Rosemond, Miss Ciceron Main
Contestant #2 - Miss Akela Moore, Miss Fire House
Contestant #3 - Miss Sydney James, Miss La Cou-Doye
Contestant #4 -Miss Faith Edward, Miss Wasco Lane
Contestant #5 - Miss Kayde Altenor, Miss Monkey Town
Contestant #6 - Miss Elva Alfred, Miss Monkey Town