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In a competition filled with accomplished women vying for the Miss Universe Jamaica (MUJ) crown, one contestant in particular proved that beauty, courage, and self-assurance know no age limit.
At 51 years old, marketing professional Barbie-Ann Mudahy was the eldest contestant in this year’s MUJ pageant. On Saturday night at the AC Hotel Kingston, she walked away with a top 15 placement in the 2025 competition, and the admiration of both the audience and fellow contestants, as well as the Miss Congeniality sectional award.
“I feel absolutely great. I am honoured to even be a part of this pageant,” Mudahy shared moments after the competition. “I’m thankful for the opportunity, and I know if they called the top 10, I was going to be in there. I’m proud that I stepped out on that stage and went against everything that could have held me back — my own fears, my own inhibitions. I stepped out there and I did it. So I’m really happy.”
For Mudahy, this was about defying limits, breaking stereotypes, and showing that confidence is timeless. She is particularly grateful for the Most Congenial award, and admitted she was shocked when her name was called.
“I know people would have seen that I came out, and I was shocked that I got that award, and the reason for that is that this group of girls was a very congenial group. Everybody!” Mudahy told The Gleaner.
What makes the award extra special for her is the fact that the Most Congenial winner is selected by the contestants.
“It was truly an honour because I know that that wasn’t an award that was given to me by the judges, it was given to me by the girls. So it really says to me that I was able to really and truly [make an] impact and become a part of a sisterhood,” she said.
For Mark McDermoth, co-national director of the Miss Universe Jamaica franchise, Mudahy receiving the award came as no surprise.
“The Most Congenial Award is decided by the contestants; they select names based on who they find to be most likeable and easiest to get along with,” said McDermoth.”I’m not surprised that Barbie Mudahy took that award, as she has been much like a big sister to the contestants, being a source of inspiration and a rock for them to lean on, and she also provided a degree of mentorship, which is fitting, as she is the most mature of the group of 27 contestants.”
For people wishing to enter the pageant but may be battling some form of insecurity or self-doubt, she says, “do it anyway”.
“At the end of the day, your insecurities really don’t matter. They don’t hold the weight. They don’t have enough value to hold you back or to hold you down. So step forward, be bold, and do it anyway. Do it afraid!”
Though she didn’t advance beyond the top 15, Barbie says she feels nothing but pride. And as for what’s next? Her answer is as spirited as her presence on stage. “The sky’s the limit for Barbie at this point. I’m not going back in. I’m outside, and I’m staying out,” she told The Gleaner with a laugh.
She also had a special message for the newly crowned Miss Universe Jamaica, Dr Gabrielle Henry. “Gabrielle, rule with grace. Rule with kindness. Rule with your heart. You are a beautiful human being. I love you, and I’ve loved you from the start. I’m here for you all the way through, no matter what!” she said.
Reflecting on her experience, Mudahy described the competition as “life-changing”. Her advice is simple and clear: “If you have the opportunity to do it, do it! Because it will, it can, and it should change your life.”
With her confidence and unapologetic authenticity, Mudahy didn’t just compete – she inspired. And in doing so, she proved that the Miss Universe Jamaica stage is big enough for every woman, at every age, who dares to dream.
English (US) ·