Twenty-two-year-old Tarique Barrett claimed the Mr. World Jamaica 2024 title at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel ballroom in New Kingston on Sunday. A final-year marketing and accounting student at The University of the West Indies, Mona, Barrett plans to use his platform to educate inner-city youth on financial literacy.

“My initiative, Future Entrepreneurs, aims to equip ghetto youth with the financial tools needed to break the cycle of poverty,” said the Mountain View resident in an interview with the Jamaica Observer.

Barrett is the first Mr. World Jamaica since 1998. He will represent Jamaica on the global stage in Vietnam this November, surpassing electronics engineer Tavar Brown, who took second place, and digital marketing specialist Dario Lopez, who was second runner-up.

The grand coronation saw family, friends, and sponsors gathering to celebrate the best of the 14 finalists. The audience enthusiastically applauded as the contestants performed their opening dance and displayed their stylish tuxedos. Supporters of Tavar Brown held banners featuring his photos, along with miniature fans bearing his image.

When Barrett was announced as the winner, the ballroom erupted in cheers, even from his competitors, who embraced him with congratulatory hugs and pats on the back. After more than two decades without this event in Jamaica, the overwhelming support was undeniable.

Barrett shared that his motivation for entering the pageant was to prove that inner-city youth can achieve success. “This pageant was about representing inner-city youth. I want the world to see that someone from the inner city can make a difference on these platforms, and that’s why I’m here,” he said.

Reflecting on the rigorous preparation over the past few weeks, Barrett noted, “It’s been hectic, but I’ve learned how to adapt. I’ve learned to handle the various challenges that came my way.”

Sunday’s coronation also featured performances by saxophonist Raheem Vassell and vocalist Maria Myrie.