The race for one of Saint Lucia’s most coveted cultural titles is officially on, with nine delegates sashed on Wednesday, April 8, as the 2026 National Carnival Queen Pageant begins a bold new chapter.
Held at The Landings Resort and streamed live to the public, the ceremony gave audiences their first look at this year’s contestants while signalling a shift in the pageant’s direction—one that places greater emphasis on leadership, advocacy, and community impact.
Chairperson of the Carnival Planning & Management Committee, Tamara Gibson, used the occasion to unveil two key initiatives set to redefine the competition. The Queens for Change Initiative will see delegates champion charitable causes alongside their sponsors, targeting underserved communities, youth development, and environmental sustainability. Complementing this is the Queen Leadership Academy, designed to equip contestants with structured training in leadership, media communication, public speaking, and advocacy.
Each delegate was ceremoniously sashed by her sponsor, marking the start of partnerships that extend beyond the stage and into meaningful corporate and community engagement. In the weeks ahead, contestants will immerse themselves in their sponsors’ operations through tours and interactive sessions, further strengthening their role as brand ambassadors and cultural representatives.
The nine delegates vying for the 2026 crown are:
Nyaley Lewis – Miss Bank of Saint Lucia
Simone Sonson – Miss Diamond Girl
Sydney James – Miss 1st National Bank
Eudoxia Poleon – Miss Duty Free Pointe Seraphine
Shernette Rameau – Miss Republic Onboard
Darlene Francis – Miss Export Saint Lucia
Faith Edward – Miss Saint Lucia Tourism Authority
Adel Montoute – Miss WMB Events & Rentals
Derelle Dubois – Miss Caribbean Galaxy Real Estate
More than a pageant, the competition positions each contestant as an ambassador of Saint Lucian culture, tasked with representing both brand and country on a national stage.
The National Carnival Queen Pageant is set for Saturday, July 4, 2026, at the Pavilion on Rodney Bay—where only one will ultimately claim the crown.
