Persistence paid off for 25-year-old Tahje Bennett, who was crowned Miss Jamaica World 2024 during the grand coronation ceremony at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston on Friday. 

The Spanish Town native, who is set to begin her studies at the Norman Manley Law School, shared that her journey to the crown was about personal growth. “I refined my advocacy; I made sure to show up as my best self every single time,” Bennett said. 

“I’ve always been true to myself. By refining my message and consistently showing up authentically, I was able to achieve this victory,” she added.

Bennett will now go on to represent Jamaica at the 72nd Miss World pageant, carrying not just her crown but also her commitment to advocacy for women who have experienced gender-based violence.

 “I want to empower and uplift women and girls who feel like their struggles define them. I’m living proof that your story doesn’t end with hardship; it can become a source of strength and inspiration for others,” she said.

In addition to taking home the crown, Bennett also won the Beauty with a Purpose fast track and Multimedia sectional prize. She placed in the top three in several other categories, including Beach Beauty, Top Model, and Sports/Fitness.

Runner-up Jamila McGowan secured second place, while Shanelle Kellyman finished in third. The celebratory atmosphere in the ballroom was palpable, with family, friends, and supporters enjoying every moment of the well-executed event, hosted by Talia Soares Brown.

As Bennett steps into her new role as Miss Jamaica World, she looks forward to using her platform to champion causes close to her heart and inspire change on a global stage.