Thu | Jan 15, 2026

Thai magic and Jamaican pride

Dr Gabrielle Henry living her Miss Universe dream

Published:Friday | November 14, 2025 | 12:07 AM
Pause
At Siam Niramit Phuket, Henry experienced a beautiful showcase of Thai heritage and artistry, from graceful traditional dances to captivating storytelling that brought centuries of culture to life, all dolled up in Dermoth Williams Couture.
Contributed
At Siam Niramit Phuket, Henry experienced a beautiful showcase of Thai heritage and artistry, from graceful traditional dances to captivating storytelling that brought centuries of culture to life, all dolled up in Dermoth Williams Couture.
Dr Gabrielle Henry strikes a playful pose following lunch at the Three Monkeys Restaurant in Thailand.
Contributed
Dr Gabrielle Henry strikes a playful pose following lunch at the Three Monkeys Restaurant in Thailand.
Among the many friendships Dr Gabrielle Henry(left) has formed is her bond with Miss Universe Ghana Andromeda Peters.
Contributed
Among the many friendships Dr Gabrielle Henry(left) has formed is her bond with Miss Universe Ghana Andromeda Peters.
Wearing Dermoth Williams Couture, Henry strikes a pose before heading out for rehearsals on Thursday.
Contributed
Wearing Dermoth Williams Couture, Henry strikes a pose before heading out for rehearsals on Thursday.
Henry is carrying the Jamaican flag with her.
Contributed
Henry is carrying the Jamaican flag with her.
1
2
3
4
5

Since leaving for Thailand last Tuesday, Dr Gabrielle Henry, Miss Universe Jamaica 2025, has been proudly waving the Jamaican flag and embracing the culture and adventures that come with representing her country in the Miss Universe pageant.

When The Gleaner last spoke with her before her departure, Henry shared that she was leaving Jamaica with “a very heavy heart” in the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. Despite the uncertainty that followed the Category 5 storm, Henry and the Miss Universe Jamaica team remained determined to carry the island’s spirit to the world stage.

“I’m not leaving Jamaica behind, I’m carrying her with me. I am going to Thailand not just to compete, but to speak for every Jamaican who is hurting, to remind the world of our strength, our faith, and our unbreakable spirit,” she shared before departing.

Now settled in Thailand, the 28-year-old says the experience has been “great” so far. That same optimism carries over as she prepares for the competition, which is scheduled for next Friday, November 21, at the IMPACT Challenger Hall in Nonthaburi, Thailand.

“I’m feeling great ahead of the competition. We’ve had a few late nights, but I’m still excited for what’s to come,” Henry added.

Settling into life in Thailand has also meant forming new bonds with women from across the globe. Henry revealed that she’s sharing a room with Miss Universe Australia Lexie Brant, whom she describes as “ a ray of light”.

“We’ve been sharing great conversations and actually have quite a few things in common!” she said with a smile.

Beyond her roommate, Henry has also connected with several other contestants, including those from Tanzania, Ireland, Ghana, Martinique, France, The Bahamas, the US Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, and Honduras. “I would feel weird if I didn’t mention everyone, so I think I’ll have to leave it there!” she said with a laugh.

The friendships have made the experience even more rewarding, as Henry continues to soak up Thailand’s beauty and culture.

“Thailand is such a beautiful country, with a rich cultural heritage and social practices. The people here are so warm!” she shared. “My biggest highlight would be the Siam Niramit, which is like a night market where you can experience a variety of cultural cuisines and do cultural dances, and we even went canoeing on a river. It was truly magical.”

When asked about her national costume, Henry said coyly, “My national costume is a secret! But I know Jamaicans will relate for sure!”

Henry has been making her appearances in Dermoth Williams Couture.

lifestyle@gleanerjm.com