Miss Universe Contestants Sashing Ceremony

Story and photos by Christopher Tobutt

Miss Universe Cayman Islands contestants were officially sashed during a special event held in the garden of the National Gallery on Saturday 27 July.

Each of the contestants introduced themselves in turn, sharing their dreams and visions during a short speech when they also thanked their sponsors and spoke of their support for this year’s official platform, the Cayman Heart Foundation.

The pageant finale is due to take place on 31 August at the Westin, when reigning queen Illean Powery passes her crown on to her successor, who will represent the Cayman Islands in Miss Universe, which will be held in Mexico, in November.

Contestant #1: Arin Broderick, 24, representing George Town; sponsored by Health City Cayman Islands said: LAST week I celebrated my birthday - a quarter of a century Old. On reflecting I’m incredibly blessed. I’ve been raised by a family who have always encouraged me to pursue my dreams. and continuously support me in making those dreams a reality. Its from this strong foundation of love and support that’s been instilled in me the deep compassion for others. I’ve learned that its true - the key to life is giving because in giving you truly recieve .

Contestant #3: Brianna Wilson, 31, representing Bodden Town; sponsored by Enterprise Cayman, said:  “I am here because our idea of beauty is evolving. The Miss Universe organisation is evolving, and who we want to see representing our beautiful country is evolving. I come embodying many firsts. The first, 30+ old contestant to ever be in Miss Cayman; the first business owner to ever be in the competition, and I’m also the first contestant to want to use this platform to highlight the creative arts.”

Contestant #4: Raegan Rutty, 22, representing East End and sponsored by Kirk Freeport, said:

“As a ninth-generation Caymanian I am proud to call these beloved isles my home. Growing up in the culturally rich district of East End I was able to see a glimpse of what makes Cayman so unique. When I think of my district, I think of waking up to the crystal clear waters with Man O wars diving for bait fish, seeing the firey leaves of the sea grape trees as I walk down the peaceful beach, and hearing the Cayman Parrots sing as they dance across the sky.” 

Contestant #5: Tiea McLaughlin, 23, representing Bodden Town; sponsored by CEL Beauty Centre and Supply, said: “I ‘ve always been a Curious homebody and nerdy person who loves exploring areas that are usually uncommon to most, such as gaming, modeling and a love for science. these interests have instilled in me a sense of independence, creativity, and competitiveness.” 

Contestant #6: Tracey Campbell, 19, representing Bodden Town; sponsored by A.P.S, said: “Participating in this pageant is not only showcasing outer beauty and modelling, but an opportunity to demonstrate character, determination, and resilience as a woman. I am here to represent the values and spirits of our island, and to prove that true beauty radiates from within.” 

Contestant #7: Zhané Rambaran, 27, representing George Town; sponsored by LSG Designs, said:  “I stand before you, proud to be your contestant number seven. A proud daughter, a proud Towner, and a proud civil servant. As a civil servant, I lead daily, with passion, integrity and professionalism, which are the three core values that also underpin my pageant journey. My passion for community is reflected in my work, and I am excited to use that same passion in Miss Universe Cayman Islands.

“This year is a milestone year for the Miss Universe franchise, as globally the organization has taken significant strides to embrace inclusivity in unprecedented ways, by removing the age limit, along with allowing mothers and wives to join the competition. As we champion these inclusive efforts, pageants are no longer just beauty contests, but rather they are platforms for showcasing empowerment, leadership, and true womanhood.”