‘Surreal’ Miss Universe Jamaica win for Portlander Celene Hall
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Miss Universe Jamaica 2026 Celene Hall.
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Celene Hall (centre) is Miss Universe Jamaica 2026 while Dr Tianna McDaniel (right), is first runner-up, and Kadejah Anderson is second runner-up following the coronation show held Sunday at the AC Hotel, St. Andrew.
With Celene Hall being crowned Miss Universe Jamaica 2026 on Sunday, the parish of Portland was flung into the pageant spotlight for the second time in August, and both times were historic.
When 25-year-old Celene Hall was crowned, she became the first woman from Portland to win the title in the pageant’s history. Earlier in August, 28-year-old Miss Portland, Christina Williams, was crowned Miss Jamaica Festival Queen 2026, making her the first Portland queen to win the title in 27 years. Williams was present on Sunday to cheer on her “parisheen” and savour her victory.
Hall emerged victorious from a field of 33 contestants, capturing the coveted crown at the AC Hotel Kingston. She was crowned by Dr Gabrielle Henry, Miss Universe Jamaica 2025, during the highly anticipated grand coronation.
Reflecting on her historic victory, Hall said the moment felt just as surreal as when she first won the Miss Universe Jamaica Portland title.
“You know, when I won Miss Universe Jamaica Portland, the word that I used to describe it was surreal, and nothing has changed this moment. It feels absolutely surreal to be the first Portlander to win Miss Universe Jamaica,” Hall said.
A remarkable showing further distinguished Hall’s victory throughout the competition. She captured five major awards: the Essence of Style Award, Best in Swimwear, Best in Evening Gown, Altruism Award, and Most Aware Award.
A businesswoman, artist, and philanthropist, Hall has spent the past five years building her career in the shipping and logistics industry, where she has developed a strong foundation in leadership, business, and service. Her professional journey is complemented by a passion for creativity, philanthropy, and making a meaningful impact in her community.
As Miss Universe Jamaica 2026, Hall now turns her attention to the international stage, with the ambition of taking Jamaica’s name to the forefront of the Miss Universe competition.
Speaking about her plans, she said: “I intend to give it my all. We all know that Jamaica has never taken the crown, and we’re going to do everything that we can to take that crown to Jamaica this year.”
Hall succeeds Dr Gabrielle Henry, who held the Miss Universe Jamaica title and crowned her successor during Sunday night’s historic ceremony.
Tianna McDaniel was crowned first runner-up, and rounding out the top three was Kadejah Anderson.
With her historic victory, Celene Hall becomes the newest representative of Jamaica on the global pageant stage, carrying with her the hopes of a nation.
entertainment@gleanerjm.com