By Ms. Nadira Mohammed, Corporate Communications Assistant and Ms. Simone T. Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President
On March 16, 2025, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) hosted the highly anticipated Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Pageant, celebrating academic achievement, cultural heritage, and artistic brilliance. This premier event showcased outstanding students excelling in research, community service, and creative expression. The evening featured captivating cultural performances and thought-provoking presentations, reflecting USC’s commitment to holistic education. The night culminated in the crowning of Michael Garcia and Alicia Lewis as Mr. and Ms. USC 2025.
The theme of the 2025 pageant, “Entrepreneurial Innovations: An Imperative for Sustainability in the Caribbean,” was carefully chosen to align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 8—Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Goal 9—Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Over the course of eight months, eight dedicated delegates immersed themselves in research, mentorship, and community engagement, honing the skills necessary to be catalysts for economic sustainability in the Caribbean.
The evening held even deeper significance as it marked the final official engagement of Mrs. Sharon Clark-Rowley in her role as the spouse of Trinidad and Tobago’s seventh Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Rowley, who officially resigned from office on March 16, 2025. Mrs. Clark-Rowley spoke passionately about the importance of excellence in education and nation-building. She praised the program for embodying the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s philosophy of holistic education—developing the head, heart, and hand—and emphasized that excellence must become a national mindset if the Caribbean is to thrive. Her words resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the mission of the Portraits of Excellence initiative.
In a moving address, Mrs. Clark-Rowley emphasized the urgent need to cultivate a national culture of excellence to advance the Caribbean region. “The University of the Southern Caribbean is responding to the contemporary challenges of the Caribbean by instilling a culture of excellence through recognition and reward,” she affirmed. “By doing so, you are ultimately contributing to a better way of life for our Caribbean people.”
As she concluded her address, Mrs. Clark-Rowley offered a lasting charge to the delegates, “As you set your goals in life and embark upon your respective journeys along the road to excellence, never forget that the witnessing of Christ has to be your highest goal.”
Rigorous Training and Transformative Learning
The Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Awards & Gala Competition is done under the guidance of a cross departmental committee of faculty and staff, ably led by Pastor Onesi La Fleur and his Student Life and Support Team. One of the priorities of the Division of Student Services & Enrollment Management is to ensure that USC’s students are actively engaged in high impact co-curricular practices such as undergraduate research and service learning throughout their university experience. .Additionally, to assist the students with their preparation on this journey to excellence, each delegate was paired with a faculty, staff or alumni mentor.
The value and innovation of the Portraits of Excellence Scholarship program has been acknowledged by the American College Personnel Association (ACPA) who presented USC in 2023 with the Innovative Academic Support Initiative Award.
In August 2024, an extraordinary journey began—one of growth, perseverance, and excellence. The Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Program, an initiative of the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), embarked on yet another transformative cycle, reaffirming its commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and cultural appreciation.
Since its inception in 2006, the Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Program has been a cornerstone of USC’s mission to cultivate well-rounded scholars who exemplify intellect, service, and innovation. After a brief hiatus, the program was revived in 2023, reclaiming its place as a prestigious platform for recognizing USC’s finest students across its seven campuses. The program continues to thrive under the distinguished patronage of Mrs. Sharon Clark-Rowley, wife of the seventh Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, who has passionately championed its vision since its revival.
The program’s intensive schedule included workshops on speech dynamics, resume writing, health and hygiene, emotional intelligence, and professional development, facilitated by esteemed professionals. These sessions provided delegates with essential tools for success beyond the competition stage.
However, the journey was not just about competition—it was about character. Each delegate completed a community outreach project, dedicating a minimum of 20 hours to a cause that aligned with their values and the theme. These initiatives, which contribute 15% of their total scores, reflect the essence of USC’s mission—to transform ordinary people into extraordinary servants of God to humanity.
Additionally, research projects within their respective academic disciplines accounted for 40% of their total scores, ensuring that they contributed to scholarly discussions and real-world problem-solving. Faculty mentors provided invaluable guidance, helping delegates present innovative solutions to pressing societal challenges.In addition to academic rigor, the delegates completed community service projects, dedicating their time and effort to making a meaningful impact.
A Grand Celebration of Intellect, Culture, and Talent
Held on Sunday, March 16, 2025, the Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Pageant 2025 was a breathtaking showcase of intellect, culture, and talent. Hosted at USC, the event was the culmination of months of preparation, featuring research presentations, community service initiatives, and cultural showcases. Friends, family, and faculty members gathered in anticipation as delegates vied for the prestigious Mr. and Ms. USC titles. More than a competition, the night was a powerful display of Caribbean identity, resilience, and ingenuity.
Top Honors: The Crowning of Excellence
The most anticipated moment of the night arrived when Michael Garcia and Alicia Lewis were crowned Mr. and Ms. USC 2025 winning a tuition prize of $30 Thousand TT dollars respectively , marking their triumph after months of dedication and hard work.
Academic and Research Excellence:
- Best Oral Research Presentation: Michael Garcia (TT$1,000.00)
- First Place – Overall Research Award: Alicia Lewis (TT$10,000.00)
- Second Place – Overall Research Award: Michael Garcia (TT$7,000.00)
- Best Community Project Award: Alicia Lewis & Asahel Joseph (TT$5,000)
These achievements reinforced that the competition was about more than just aesthetics—it was about shaping thought leaders and change-makers.
Cultural Wear Showcase: A Tapestry of Caribbean Identity
The Cultural Wear segment transported the audience on a visual and emotional journey through the rich heritage of the Caribbean. Each delegate’s ensemble was a storytelling masterpiece, embodying history, struggle, and triumph.
- Ahjea Jackson (St. Vincent and the Grenadines) embodied the powerful force of nature with a design inspired by La Soufrière Volcano and the national flower, the Soufrière Tree Blossom. The fiery colors and intricate embroidery symbolized resilience and rebirth.
- Alicia Lewis (Antigua and Barbuda) unveiled Aurora Futurum, a futuristic representation of Antigua’s sustainability movement. Her LED-lit headpiece symbolized innovation, while her cape depicted the island’s beaches and sargassum seaweed, which is being explored as a biofuel.
- Felesha Jack (Dominica) modernized the traditional Wob Dwiyet, integrating bamboo beading and Kalinago craftsmanship to highlight the entrepreneurial strength of the Dominican people. Her ensemble paid homage to the national bird, the Sisserou Parrot, a symbol of determination.
- Hansel Thomas (St. Vincent and the Grenadines) portrayed Wings of the Vincentian Spirit, honoring the legendary Garifuna warriors and the national Amazona Guildingii parrot. His costume reflected the strength and unyielding spirit of his ancestors.
- Asahel Joseph (Antigua and Barbuda) stunned the audience with Freedom Flyer, an elaborate tribute to the national frigate bird, with wings spanning across his back to symbolize Antigua’s journey to independence and economic resilience.
- Michael Garcia (Trinidad and Tobago) merged two cultural icons—the Midnight Robber and the Steelpan—into The Pan Midnight Robber. His powerful presence and bold storytelling reminded the audience of the intersection between tradition and entrepreneurship.
- Marques Bruce (South Campus) took on the role of Papa Bois, the guardian of the forest, with a costume crafted from eco-friendly materials. His portrayal reinforced the urgent need for sustainability in the Caribbean.
- Ruqayya Abdul-Haqq (Trinidad and Tobago) transformed into Tourist Annie, showcasing the vibrancy of local industry, from cocoa farming to steelpan innovation.
Best Cultural Wear Awards:
- Female: Ruqayya Abdul-Haqq
- Male: Michael Garcia
Talent Showcase: An Explosion of Creativity and Passion
The talent segment was nothing short of extraordinary, leaving the audience in awe as contestants delivered performances infused with Caribbean rhythm, storytelling, and emotion.
- Ahjea Jackson electrified the stage with Success, a powerful Afro-soul and spoken-word fusion celebrating women entrepreneurs. Her performance concluded with a dramatic reveal of a painting honoring the event’s patroness.
- Alicia Lewis delivered an inspiring spoken-word piece transitioning into a soulful song about sustainability and entrepreneurship, challenging students to create solutions to food waste on campus.
- Felesha Jack brought energy and empowerment through her original song You Could Be Your Own Boss!, encouraging self-made success through resilience.
- Hansel Thomas took the audience on a journey of self-doubt and perseverance with a contemporary dance to Weight in Gold, symbolizing the struggles and victories of entrepreneurship.
- Asahel Joseph delivered a musical storytelling piece about overcoming financial hardship, using reggae beats and a compelling narrative to show his evolution from struggle to success.
- Michael Garcia performed a theatrical and comedic retelling of steelpan history, blending humor, music, and heritage to highlight its cultural significance.
- Marques Bruce presented a deeply spiritual and moving dance piece set to Jehovah, expressing faith and perseverance through elegant choreography.
- Ruqayya Abdul-Haqq delivered Vibert is King, a dramatic monologue blending spoken word and steelpan rhythms, portraying the transition from hardship to triumph.
Best Talent Awards:
- Female: Ahjea Jackson
- Male: Michael Garcia
Scholarships and Recognitions
The competition not only honored artistic and academic achievements but also rewarded students with scholarships to support their future aspirations.
- People’s Choice Award: Felesha Jack ( TT$1,000.00)
- Congeniality Award: Marques Bruce ( TT$1,000.00)
- 25% Tuition Awards: Ahjae Jackson, Ruqayya Abdul-Haqq, Marques Bruce, Asahel Joseph (TT$7,500.00)
- First Runner-up (Female): Felesha Jack (TT$15,000 tuition award)
- First Runner-up (Male): Hansel Thomas (TT$15,000 tuition award)
A Lasting Legacy of Excellence
Keeping in line with the theme of the event, the USC saw it fitting to also honor Ms. Del Phillips- Assistant Professor in the School of Business and Entrepreneurship for her pioneering role in developing the Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Awards & Gala competition. Ms. Teen Trinidad and Tobago – who is currently a student at the USC assisted Pastor Onesi La Fleur with this presentation.
The Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Pageant 2025 was more than just a competition—it was a movement. The event showcased the brilliance, resilience, and innovation of Caribbean youth, proving that they are not just future leaders but present-day change-makers. As the curtains fell and the champions exited the stage, they carried with them more than just titles; they bore the torch of excellence, ready to shape the Caribbean’s future with vision, artistry, and unwavering determination.
Judges and Sponsors
Pageant Night Judges:
- Mr. Kivonne Ramsawak (Chief Judge) – Film Director and Editor, Film Production Unit, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus
- Dr. Helen Cumberbatch – Vice President of Student Affairs at COSTAATT.
- Mr. Derron Sandy – Spoken Word Poet & Performer, Creative Education and Artistic Director.
- Dr. Raymond Weekes – Lecturer of Theatre Arts, Creative & Festival Arts at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus
- Mrs. Shawna Steede-Nicholas – Business Strategy Manager, Grace Kennedy (Trinidad and Tobago)
Pre-pageant Judges:
- Written Research Projects: Dr. Justin Zephyrine, Ms. Natalie Maharaj, Dr. Barbara Constance
- Oral Research Presentations: Dr. Fiona Rajkumar, Dr. Paul Richards, Dr. Kyra McGowan-Santana
- Community Projects: Dr. Glenda Hinkson, Mr. Michael Perez, Pastor Malverne Mentore
Special Thank You to our Sponsors
RBC Royal Bank, Eastern Divers Group of Companies, Point Lisas Nitrogen Limited, UNIPET, Western Scientific, Lesli & Durey Arthur, IADPA, College Health Foods, Eve Anderson and Associates, Bakers Flags & Emblems, Executive Office Supplies, Matvern Limited, M&M Insurance, FLOW, North American USC Alumni Association, Drs. Orville & Phyllis Woolford, Dr. Leon Wilson, Dr. Dale Alexander, Neville & Alma Elder, Zwade Studios, Better Listing Foods Ltd., M’Saydez Campbell, NATCO, Blue Waters, Forward Industries, TovaTickets, Heavenly Gardens.
