Shirnaldeen Lewis
Contestant #2
SPONSOR: Carib Brewery (St. Kitts Nevis) Ltd

On the 22nd of November, youthful exuberance gave way to the entry of an alluring baby girl. From my captivating smile and personality, which I acquired from mother Shirleen Bradshaw, to my perpetual competitive zeal to win, thanks to father Ronald Williams, I knew from a very tender age that I was destined for prodigious achievements. I always yearned for academic excellence. My academic prowess was initially realized at the Seventh Day Adventist Primary School, where I successfully accumulated top Test of Standards scores and was ultimately rewarded valedictorian honours. As I made my transition to the Washington Archibald High School (WAHS), I developed an interest in my athletic abilities and soon assimilated to the balance of academic and athletic success. It is my belief that an accurate combination of both, create an avenue for a well-rounded individual. I had a passion for the sport of Netball and luckily for me, my skills equalled my passion for the sport and I was eventually selected as a member of the St Kitts Nevis under 16 national team. My involvement in sports provided a discipline that is imperative for success in any facet of life.

Being mentally precocious, I was always able to harness the power of my own mind. “The desire to succeed, the will to win and the urge to reach my full potential are my shoes to finish the race of personal excellence.” This quote effectively narrates my optimistic approach and outlook on life. My full potential was tested when I sat my CXC examinations. I turned out to be a more apt student than many had expected. My desire to succeed resulted in 12 subject passes, with numerous distinctions. Commendable performance awarded me a Taiwanese scholarship and I soon became a member of an elite group of Youth Intellects. I am driven by a genuine dislike for 2nd place, for I believe that there is always room at the top. My educational advancements trickled over into the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (CFBC) where I began putting life into perspective and ultimately decided on a potential career path. It is my desire to one day become a forensic pathologist, with the hope that it would eventuate in the opening of my very own pathology laboratory. “I am built not to shrink down to less, but to blossom into more.” I use my positivity and academic success to inspire my siblings and the people near and dear to me.

Due to my personal high achievements, I always had a keen allurement in education and aiding others to thrive academically including those who may even be autistic. Individuals with autism have a neurobehavioral disorder where there’s a lack of communicating with others and developing language skills. Academic persistence can create an avenue even for individuals with these difficulties. I have had the pleasure of providing the inspiration, through my academic advancements and encouragement, needed for success. Victory in the realm of pageantry remains at the top of my “to do” list. Having contested two previous shows and coming up short, I am fuelled by my earnest desire for jubilation. In this pursuit, I intend to allow my inner drive to propel me in the direction of victory. Having a positive attitude, the battle is already half won.