Confidence is everything.
Those were the words of International Soca Artiste Kelson “Electrify” Ogiste as he spoke to the eight contestants seeking to capture the coveted title of “Little Mr. and Miss Grenada”.
Encouragement was showered on the Little Mr and Miss Grenada 2024 contestants as they embarked on a kids’ forum last Saturday at the Grenada Trade Center.
President of the children’s pageant Jermaine “Superstar” Simon said that the competition is the children’s chance to display their abilities and individuality.
“It’s not just the pageant, but it is an opportunity for the youngest members of our community to showcase their talents, skills, and personality on the grand stage. Little Mr. and Miss Grenada pageant is a platform for our children to build their confidence, self-esteem and leadership skills,” she said.
Simon declared that the pageant “is a celebration of the potential and the promise of our youths.”
Electrify, the three-time Soca Monarch king implored the contestants to be confident while reiterating that all of them are “winners in their own rights.”
“You have to believe in yourself and have your faith and to have confidence… Because we are all winners in our own rights. We just want to let you (parents) know it’s just competition and we have to motivate our young ones and let them strive for excellence,” he told the gathering.
Speaking on the power of social media, the soca artiste encouraged the parents to be proactive especially when it comes to the children’s online activities.
“And as parents, we have to stay focused and be on top of the guard because you may not know that once your child has the device in his hand, you don’t know who’s speaking to your child.”
The cultural ambassador emphasised how important it is to have a good attitude despite the challenges and disappointments in life.
“Your attitude always determines your altitude. Without confidence in yourself, you are twice defeated in the race of life. With confidence you already won since before you start. Anything I put my mind to, I will achieve it.”
According to the 2007 Soca Monarch winner, hard work is imperative in order to achieve success.
Principal at St. David’s Catholic Primary School Nicole Baptiste noted that the children can do wonders for the Grenadian society if they have the support of parents.
In her address, she empowered the children to have “a growth mindset” and understand the importance of learning and trying.
“We see you, there are some skills and abilities that you can achieve anything that you want to and I know that you have it within you. You are going to display it on the day of the pageant, but sometimes as we live, life can be challenging… and we have setbacks and obstacles along the way. But we must not lose sight of our goals and our dreams… Remember, the only way you can fail is if you give up.”
Sergeant Sherwin Noel who is attached to the Community Relations Department of Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) urged the contestants to be hands-on in their communities.
“We want you to be a part of community policing. With community policing, we give the citizens a sense of hope, a sense of belonging and responsibility as well,” he said.
Managing Director of the Child Protective Services (CPS) Adrian Harford praised the individuality in each contestant and told them that they are valuable in the world.
“Know that each one of you are precious and you are loved, and you are needed in life. You are precious.”
Speaking on the issue of good touch and bad touch, Harford reminded the children of the need to be on guard in uncomfortable situations and to always speak to the relevant authorities.
“You report it to somebody in authority. Alright, you have to protect yourself. So that’s why I’m asking you to be confident. You know everybody speaking about confidence. You’re going to be confident in your response to somebody who’s trying to harm you.”
He encouraged the contestants to “practice and enjoy” themselves during the process.
Nurse at the Ministry of Health Niecal Joseph who spoke on the importance of proper personal hygiene stated that good hygiene will increase one’s belief in him or herself.
“Good personal hygiene will help boost your self-performance about self-esteem and confidence. It’s how you perceive yourself.”
Nurse Joseph encouraged the contestants to pursue careers that they are passionate about.
“…Whatever you choose to be, whatever you want to be, just be good at it. Be a professional at it. Love it, embrace it, choose it so that you could feel good about yourself. You know you have purpose in life and that’s what you take with you wherever you go,” she said.
One parent and well-wisher who spoke at the function was Kitisha Lewis-Modeste who encouraged her colleagues to build an environment that will allow the children to become great.
“Support them no matter what. Finally, let’s work together to create an environment where every child feels empowered to shine brightly, not just on stage but in every aspect of their lives.”
Lewis-Modeste urged the participants to know that pageant is not about winning but it is about creating lasting memories.
“Remember the true essence of this pageant lies not in the crowns and the titles but in the lessons learned and the friendships forged, and the memories made along the way.”
“It’s also about fostering a community of young leaders who will make a positive impact in our island and the world over.”
“It’s not just about the glitz and the glamour. It’s about the values you uphold and the impact you make. I urge you to be your authentic self, meaning be who you are, not a copy of anyone else.”
“I want you to embody the spirit of kindness and compassion. Treat each other with respect and empathy regardless of differences. Your words and your actions have the power to uplift and inspire. Don’t use that tongue of yours to break down anybody. You are all unique and special. Be leaders in promoting positivity, inclusion, and goodwill wherever you go.”
Referring to the experience as “great”, the reigning Little Miss Grenada 2023 Jelah Mc Millan said that she is eagerly anticipating “more exciting adventures and great networking.”
She encouraged the current participants to foster friendships during the process.
“To all the participants for 2024, I would like to say that winning isn’t everything. Create (and) build friendships, create bonds and most importantly, have fun.”
Little Mr. Grenada 2023, Jaden St. John told the gathering that his experience was a thrilling one and it helped him grow in many areas.
“Participating in the Little Mr and Miss Grenada was an exhilarating experience that boosted my confidence and self-esteem. It taught me the importance of self-perseverance, and self-belief, overcoming challenges and setbacks along the way.”
“It wasn’t about the money or the prizes, however, it was an opportunity for me to make new friends, establish connections, and create memories that will last me a lifetime.”
“Remember, participating in this event (will) have a profound impact on your lives. It allows you to push yourselves, discover your true potential, and overcome your fears. My friends, break free from your limitations and embrace the stage.”