There are events that entertain, and then there are movements that transform. The 20th Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Pageant stands firmly as the latter. On Sunday 22nd March, 2026, the University of the Southern Caribbean did not simply host a pageant, it presented the culmination of a journey that has, for two decades, shaped the minds, voices, and purpose of youths within the Caribbean.
This milestone moment was not only a celebration of the present, but a reflection of a rich legacy. What began in 2005 as the Ms. CUC Pageant, a single-gender initiative born out of the creativity of the Missionary Action Group (USC DRAMA MAG), quickly evolved into something far greater. By 2006, under the leadership of Ms. Del Phillips and the University Relations team, the vision expanded into the Mr. and Ms. USC Scholarship Pageant, with a clear emphasis on scholarship, research, and holistic development. Over time, the programme was refined into what is now known as Portraits of Excellence, an experience that prioritizes academic rigor, cultural identity, and service above all else.
Established as a transformative student development initiative, Portraits of Excellence continues to redefine what it means to lead. It is not about crowns or titles, but about formation. Over the course of nearly nine months, ten (10) delegates engage in an intensive process of academic research, community involvement, and personal development. They are challenged to interrogate real societal issues and position themselves as catalysts for change.
This year’s theme, “Empowering My Generation: Youth in Motion for Health and Hope,” was not merely a statement. It was a call to action. Each delegate responded with intention, demonstrating a deep commitment to advocacy, awareness, and impact.
The gala night served as a powerful culmination of that journey. From the moment the delegates took the stage, the atmosphere was charged with energy, pride, and purpose. Every segment of the programme reflected not just talent, but transformation.
The significance of the evening was also underscored by the words delivered on behalf of His Excellency Kerwyn Garcia, S.C., Patron of the event, who noted, “As this nation and the rest of the world grapple with complex challenges, the young men and women participating in this program fill us all with hope and optimism. Each delegate has set an example for young people across Trinidad and Tobago and throughout the wider Caribbean.” His message reinforced the broader impact of the programme, positioning the delegates not simply as participants, but as beacons of possibility for the region.
The talent segment stood out as a bold expression of authenticity and courage. Delegates confronted complex and often sensitive issues, including mental health, identity, faith, and societal pressures. Through music, spoken word, dance, and athletic performance, they delivered deeply personal and socially relevant messages. These were not performances crafted solely for applause. They were powerful narratives of resilience and truth.
The cultural wear segment elevated the evening into a celebration of Caribbean identity. Each piece was a visual narrative, intricately designed to reflect the history, struggles, and triumphs of the region. Delegates embodied their nations with pride, reinforcing the idea that effective leadership is rooted in cultural awareness and self-understanding.
During the question and answer segment, delegates demonstrated intellectual depth and clarity of thought. Their responses reflected not only preparation, but a genuine engagement with regional and global issues, hallmarks of the Portraits of Excellence experience since its early emphasis on research as a core component of judging.
Equally impactful were the community projects, which underscored the programme’s commitment to service. These initiatives addressed real needs within communities, focusing on health, education, and empowerment. They were not symbolic efforts, but tangible contributions that reflected the delegates’ dedication to meaningful change.
The evening also honoured continuity and legacy, highlighted by a farewell from the outgoing titleholders, Mr. and Ms. USC 2025/2026, Michael Garcia and Alicia Lewis. Their reflections served as a reminder that the Portraits of Excellence journey extends far beyond the stage.
In recognition of excellence across the programme, several awards were presented. Adriell Wilson received the Congeniality Award, while the Trinidad and Tobago Club earned Best Community Project. Angelique Gurley secured both the Best Oral Research Presentation and Second Place Research Project awards, while Nicholas Hanooman captured the top Research Project Award. The People’s Choice Award went to Lemario Clarke-Damier. Mya Garraway and Nicholas Hanooman were awarded Best Talent and Best Cultural Wear in their respective categories. Additionally, Akolya Gentle, Brianna Cuffy, Angelique Gurley, Adriell Wilson, Reyneil Williams, and Lemario Clarke-Damier each received 25% Tuition Scholarships.
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The St. Lucia delegates, Abigail Francis and Ethan Leon, were named First Runner-Ups, a testament to their consistency and strength throughout the competition.
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At the pinnacle of the evening, Mya Garraway and Nicholas Hanooman were crowned Ms. and Mr. USC 2026. Their victory marked a historic moment, as it was the first time since 2010 that both titles were claimed by Trinidad and Tobago delegates. Their journey throughout the programme was defined by discipline, excellence, and impact. They did not merely excel in segments. They embodied the ethos of Portraits of Excellence. As they step into their roles as ambassadors, they carry forward a legacy built on scholarship, service, and leadership.
Twenty years after its inception, Portraits of Excellence stands as a testament to the power of intentional student development. From its early beginnings as a single pageant to its evolution into a comprehensive scholarship and leadership programme, it continues to fulfill its mission: to transform ordinary people into extraordinary servants of God. As the 2026 Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Pageant demonstrated, when young people are given the tools, the platform, and the purpose, they do more than rise. They lead, they transform, and they redefine the future of the Caribbean.
