Tara-Gaye Evans Takes Inaugural Miss Universe Jamaica St Thomas Title

Tara-Gaye Evans, a registered nurse and former Bishop Gibson High School student, has claimed the Miss Universe Jamaica St Thomas 2026 title in a landmark result for the parish.

The crowning ceremony, held at Morant Bay High School on Saturday, was the parish’s first Miss Universe Jamaica franchise contest. Evans prevailed over nine other entrants after rounds featuring an opening number, swimwear and evening gown segments, and a question-and-answer session for the top five finalists.

In comments to JIS News, she said she had long wanted to join the competition but held off for three years until she felt prepared to compete.

“It feels so great to be crowned. I have wanted to enter the Miss Universe pageant for three years. I didn’t feel like I was ready, but now I think I’m more emotionally intelligent, more mature, and just ready to take on the title. I have a plan for the crown, and so I’m ready for what it has to offer,” she said.

The 24-year-old also picked up Best in Swimwear, Best in Gown, and Most Poised.

When the final five faced questions from the audience, her answer highlighting Kumina as a key part of St Thomas culture was warmly received.

Evans now sets her sights on the national Miss Universe Jamaica crown, where she will face winners from other parishes. “I am definitely ready to take on the national title with my project, the ‘Don’t Panic Project’ where I will teach school-age children CPR and basic life support,” Evans outlined.

She urged other young women in St Thomas who share her ambitions to act on their goals: “Prepare and go for it.”

Sidayne Ferguson was named first runner-up and took Most Aware and Most Photogenic. Macaeda Sutherland finished as third runner-up.

Further sectional awards went to Amoya Besay for Most Popular on Social Media, Lateene Bryan for Most Congenial, and Leshagaye Hunter for Best Smile and Most Improved.

The inaugural Miss Universe Jamaica St Thomas pageant received sponsorship from the St Thomas Renaissance Foundation and other parish organisations.