The University of the West Indies (The UWI), Mona extends heartfelt congratulations to Omolora Wilson, former Guild President (2022-2024), on being crowned Miss Jamaica Festival Queen 2024. Wilson, who represented the parish of St Elizabeth, was crowned at the National Indoor Sports Centre on Saturday night (August 3, 2024).

In addition to winning the coveted title, Wilson claimed several sectional prizes, including Most Culturally Aware, Most Active in the Community, and Best Performance. Her remarkable achievements and dedication to cultural awareness and community involvement have been rightfully recognized.

Wilson, who is a 24-year-old of the Rastafarian faith, is a daughter of New Market, St Elizabeth and is currently pursuing post-graduate studies in Marketing and Data Analysis at The UWI Mona.

During her undergraduate studies, she pursued a BSc in Marketing with a minor in Tourism Management and Cultural Studies, Wilson juggled an activist student life with her academics. She ascended through the ranks of the Guild Council, from serving as the Faculty of Social Sciences Representative to holding the mantle of President in 2022 when she became the 11^th female guild president.  She served in that position for two (2) terms. While leading the Guild she advocated for greater financial aid for students as well as student safety.

An extraordinary advocate, Wilson has used her voice to support body positivity and the rights of women and children at the community level as well as the regional level. Her community project titled Signed Seal Jamaica, aims to diversify forms of communication that are more inclusive into schools across Jamaica starting with the introduction of sign language.

Wilson has also actively participated in recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Beryl, demonstrating her commitment to her community.

Beyond her advocacy endeavors, Wilson's commitment to societal betterment transcends borders. She served as a Political Awareness and Respect Initiative (PARI) Ambassador for the Political Ombudsman of Jamaica and as a UWI Mona ambassador for the Global Mentorship Initiative, amplifying her impact on a global scale.

The UWI Mona community is incredibly proud of Wilson's accomplishments and contributions. Her victory marks the second time a representative from St Elizabeth has won the national Miss Jamaica Festival Queen title since 2017.

Extending his congratulation to Wilson, Pro Vice Chancellor and Principal of The UWI Mona, Professor Densil A. Williams commented: “Omolora’s triumph is a testament to her work ethics, dedication, and passion for her culture, community and country. The UWI Mona looks forward to supporting her future endeavors and witnessing the positive impact she will continue to make. We have no doubt that this Pelican will be making her mark in many other ways in the years to come.”

The UWI Mona also extend our congratulations to the other Pelican contestants and finalists: Miss Manchester Shonnoya Houston, the first runner-up; Miss Kingston and St Andrew Daindra Harrison, the second runner-up and recipient of the Most Popular on Social Media award; Stephena Edwards; Toni Shea Grey, Jenicia Jones and Onecia Henry.