Saint Lucia’s reigning Carnival Queen, Emerle Tisson, has proven that true royalty extends far beyond the stage. In a heartfelt act of generosity, Tisson returned to her alma mater, Choiseul Secondary School and Delcer R.C. Combined School, to give back to the very communities that helped shape her journey.
Armed with compassion and purpose, Tisson donated a wide range of essential school supplies, including school bags, uniforms, notebooks, exercise books, geometry sets, crayons, pens, pencils (some branded by the Bank of Saint Lucia), file sheets, sharpeners, panty liners, rulers, glue, and sanitary napkins. Her contribution, she said, was more than an act of kindness, it was a reminder to students that success is rooted in gratitude and service.
“Returning to my schools means everything to me,” Tisson said. “These classrooms, these teachers, and this community helped shape who I am today. Giving back is my way of saying thank you and showing the students that no dream is too big when you believe in yourself and work hard. If I can inspire even one student to push beyond their circumstances, then I’ve done my job as Carnival Queen.”
Tisson’s gesture comes as part of her commitment to using her platform to uplift and inspire Saint Lucia’s youth, especially young girls who see in her a reflection of their own potential. Her reign as Carnival Queen, she added, has been about more than pageantry, it’s been about purpose.
“Wearing the crown is an honor, but what matters most is how you use it,” she continued. “I want young people, especially girls, to see that being a queen is not just about beauty or titles, but about leadership, compassion, and giving back. I want them to know they can be strong, confident, and kind all at once.”
The Principal of Choiseul Secondary School, Lyian Joseph-Defreitas, praised Tisson for her generosity and enduring connection to the institution.
“It is indeed remarkable,” the principal said. “Today, as teachers at Choiseul Secondary, we are proud to have nurtured such talent. Emerle stands as a shining example to our students, proof that hard work and perseverance pay off. Her thoughtfulness in giving back makes this day even more special. She may have moved on, but she has not forgotten her roots. She continues to inspire our students to dream big.”
Students and teachers alike expressed admiration for Tisson’s humility and leadership. Her visit brought smiles, excitement, and hope, qualities that underscore the deeper meaning of her crown.
As her reign continues, Emerle Tisson says she remains committed to her mission of empowering the next generation through acts of service and inspiration. In her own words, “True queens fix each other’s crowns, and that begins with lifting others.”
