Celene Hall Crowned Miss Universe Jamaica Portland 2026 at Port Antonio Coronation

Celene Hall, a 25-year-old executive manager, says her victory as Miss Universe Jamaica Portland 2026 has yet to fully sink in. Hall outshone 11 other hopefuls on Saturday night at Hotel Tim Bamboo in Port Antonio to take the inaugural parish crown.

Competing under the Miss ASAP Express Limited sash, Hall earned the distinction of being the first queen produced through the newly launched parish-level franchise structure of Miss Universe Jamaica. Portland also secured another milestone, with first runner-up Alyssa Francis becoming the first parish-franchise contestant to receive an automatic berth in the national finals.

Reflecting on the win after a flurry of photographs and embraces from loved ones, Hall told The Gleaner the moment still felt unreal. Honestly, I'm still taking in that moment. When I heard my name, everything went quiet for a second. I remember telling myself, 'You've grown beyond your expectations through this, crowned or not, be proud of the woman you're becoming.'

She said gratitude and faith carried her throughout the journey. I thought about every step that led me to that stage, every moment of doubt I had to push through, and I just felt overwhelmed in the best possible way. Looking out and seeing the support in the audience made the moment feel even more surreal — it was truly special.

Hall, who also picked up the Most Aware award, described the crown as a duty rather than just an accolade. It's a responsibility as I carry not only my parish, but the people and support system that stood behind me throughout this journey. I'm excited, but also very aware of what this moment represents. I've been preparing for this from the beginning, and I'm ready to step into it with purpose and intention.

Looking ahead, the new queen plans to raise the profile of her non-profit, the Hummingbird Foundation, and to champion the arts in Portland. For me, it is about showing people, especially young women, that small, intentional actions can create real impact. I plan to expand outreach, build stronger partnerships, and reach more communities that need support, not just speak about change, but actively be part of it. As an artist, I am also deeply committed to cultural restoration. I intend to use my platform to support efforts to rebuild the art gallery in Port Antonio that was damaged in a fire in 2022 and still remains inactive. I believe spaces like these are vital for creative expression, community identity, and opportunity.

The coronation opened with a group dance number choreographed by Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts graduate Lorraine Welsh, with percussion from national award-winning drummer Aniya Brown. Saxophonist Jamari Robinson and vocalist Kymani Burke provided further entertainment, with Burke serenading the delegates during the evening gown segment.

In the supporting categories, Zaniel Sleight took Most Photogenic, Alyssa Francis was named Most Poised, and Janena Greaves received the People's Choice Award. Amaya Marson collected the Spirit of the Universe Award for Most Improved, Alrica Dailey was Most Congenial, and Francis added the Multimedia Award to her tally. Portland Western Member of Parliament Daryl Vaz presented Hall with a $100,000 cash prize.

Francis said the contest had stretched her in valuable ways. It wasn't always easy, but every moment pushed me to grow and step more into the woman I aim to become. I've gained so much knowledge, formed meaningful connections, and created precious memories I'll carry with me long after the competition. It was also incredibly fulfilling to know that the judges recognised my tenacity and were so impressed that they awarded me an automatic spot at nationals. I'm especially proud to be making history as the first contestant from a parish franchise to receive that honour.

Portland parish director Shanique Rogers hailed the sold-out staging as a landmark for the region. As the parish director, I produced a solo event that went flawlessly, and I'm thrilled to announce that my queen, Celene Hall, has advanced directly to the [national] stage. Additionally, my first runner-up, Alyssa Francis, was offered a special spot by the national directors to compete at the national finals. This is a testament to the calibre of talent we showcased, and I'm honoured to have brought two powerhouse competitors to this level. This is a monumental achievement for Portland, and I'm certain we're going to bring the buzz and the spotlight right back here, she said.