3 days ago
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When Dr Gabrielle Henry was crowned Miss Universe Jamaica 2025 earlier this month, she described the moment as nothing short of surreal. It was the culmination of months of training, discipline, and determination, and as she stood on stage, she felt the weight of that hard work finally paying off. What made the victory even more meaningful was the fact that this was not her first attempt. Having returned to the competition, Henry’s triumph carried with it a deeper sense of fulfilment.
Not only did Henry take the top title, but she also swept four sectional awards: Best Swimwear, Media Challenge Award, Best Personality, and the Altruism Award.
In an article published in The Gleaner shortly after her win, Henry described it as a full-circle moment. She first entered the competition in 2023.
“I’ve been in this pageant before in 2023. I had entered and, at the time, of course, it was a new concept to me. But, having re-entered, having experienced it before, it was just such an exhilarating process. So much fun, just forming bonds with the ladies, the sisterhood that was formed, and also just growing within my own, you know, getting some close-up form of self-improvement and self-development. I’m really glad to be the one who’s really gonna go to Thailand this year to represent my country. I’m really grateful,” Henry shared in that interview.
Now, as she prepares to step onto the international stage in Thailand this November, Henry is in full preparation mode and looks forward to representing the black, green, and gold.
“There’s just so many components to Jamaica that people don’t really know about, and I’m so happy to share that with them, to share about our nature or beauty and our innovation,” Henry added.
Just days after her win, The Gleaner invited the new Miss Universe Jamaica to its North Street headquarters for a sit-down in this week’s 5 Questions With ....
1. What kind of preparation are you doing in terms of your walk, poise, and presentation as you get ready to compete in Thailand?
There’s a lot of preparation that goes into competing on the international stage. Right now, I’m training particularly in my walk because it is a little bit challenging, but I am enjoying it. There’s also the talk and, of course, being poised and graceful; so there’s a lot of work that goes into the preparation and I’m just really excited as [I prepare for Thailand].
2. You have an interest in nurturing plants. Do you have any particular favourites?
I absolutely love succulents! I have over a hundred of them now and I love nurturing them on a daily basis, as much as I can. There are a lot of different genotypes [but] I can’t name all of them off the top of my head (laughs).
3. It’s been a little over a week since you were crowned Miss Universe Jamaica 2025. Has it sunk in yet, and how have the past few days been for you?
The past few days have been like a whirlwind. I’m not sure where the time went; I think I’m still on Saturday evening (August 9) mentally; but I’m in a good space and I’m feeling really good about myself.
4. What are you most looking forward to experiencing during your time in Thailand?
I’m looking forward to the food! (laughs) That’s the first thing. I’m also looking forward to interacting with the people there, understanding the culture and just enjoying myself!
5. Tell us about your See Me Foundation, and what is your greatest hope for its future?
The See Me Foundation is geared towards the visually impaired community and their social reintegration, as well as job opportunities for them. In the future, I’m hoping to reach out to both public and private sector entities to bring them on board to provide job placements and training opportunities. Once [this community] has the right tools that they need in order to be part of our space, they can actually contribute significantly to society.
BRAWTA:
What’s one hobby or talent you have that people would be surprised to know about you?
One thing I enjoy doing is singing. It may seem very simple, but it’s something I do on a daily basis.
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