ASPIRING teacher and pageantry enthusiast, 19-year-old, Zalika Samuels, an Amelia’s Ward, Linden resident, was crowned Miss Linden Town Week (LTW) Youth Ambassador Queen 2022 at the Mackenzie Sports Club on Saturday last.

Donning a House of Pearson, aquamarine, one sleeved, fish tail evening gown, the beauty queen was crowned by the 2019 Miss LTW Teen queen, Akeila Handy, who had also recently won the 2022 Miss Mash Queen crown.
Delegate No. 4 in the pageant, Samuels prevailed over four other delegates to snatch the coveted crown.

“I competed with some fierce young ladies, so it’s a surprise to me that I am the LTW 2022 Youth Ambassador,” Samuels shared, while speaking with the media moments after being crowned.
“I don’t even have words at this moment, but I am grateful and I must say it has been a tough journey for me but this is a stepping stone for me.

“It was challenging practicing every day and having to get up early, but as you can see, it was worth it,” the crowned beauty shared.
Standing at five feet, eight inches, Samuels shared that she sees the pageant win as just a stepping stone in her ultimate goal of one day representing Guyana at the international “Miss Universe” pageant.
“Pageantry is something I’ve always admired, and it’s my dream to one day walk the Miss Universe stage,” she shared.

Rocking her natural hair in a low-cut style, Samuels was established as a crowd favourite early in the evening as she gracefully moved through segment after segment in the competition, and dazzled with her mannerism and bright smile.

Her win was well-received as many flocked to front of the stage for a photo with the queen after her win was announced.
Delegate No. 1, 17-year-old Moneisha Trotman, of Block 22, finished as first runner-up, while Delegate No. 3, Elisheba Wilson, of Wisroc, was the second runner-up.

Samuels also picked up the prize for “Best Dressed” for her Quinton Pearson-designed fit, while Delegate No. 5, Celina Lorrimer, 16, of Wismar Housing Scheme, picked up the prize for the “Best Smile”.
Trotman won the prize for “Miss Popularity”.

The night saw the delegates competing in an opening dance performance and introductions, as well as a talent segment, showcasing a sports discipline. They were also required to present on a community-based topic they were assigned. The final segment was evening wear.

Samuels particularly stood out for the crowd during her presentation on her community-based platform. She spoke on the Linden recreational area, “Buck Town”. As she exited the stage following her presentation, the crowd excitedly demanded her return.

Following the evening wear segment, the top three delegates were then selected from the five. This was the moment for Samuels, Wilson and Trotman to shine. Samuels took the moment. (Tamica Garnett)