How did you feel when you heard your name being announced as Miss Island Queen 2011?
When I heard my name announced I was so happy. I got this feeling inside that words couldn’t explain which brought tears to my eyes.
Why did you enter the pageant?
Have you ever entered a pageant before?
I have actually done a fitness competition and placed first but never a beauty pageant. I entered this competition at first just for the fun of it but getting into it and knowing what it’s about I have recognized it is an excellent opportunity.
You had to wear a swimsuit for most of the events. How did you prepare mentally and physically for that?
For most of the promotional events we had to wear shorts and Island Queen shirts or a shirt representing our campaign which is called “I Am Aware”. I prepared mentally by looking in the mirror and telling myself, ‘Simone! You can do this . . .stay confident’ and to help myself prepare physically I would do sit-ups morning and night and to keep my legs toned I would do bicycle rotation.
How did you juggle the pageant and school?
My school actually finishes at 1 p.m., so it wasn’t that bad for me. I would have time to go home get some rest then get ready to go and do promotional events or rehearsals
What advice would you give young ladies so they carry themselves like you – a queen?
My advice is to always know where and when, always have confidence in yourself and always be you.
What is the secret remedy that keeps you calm, cool and collected – when everyone around you is a nervous wreck?
If I told you my remedy it wouldn’t be a secret (she laughs) but I’m a performer. I have been performing since I was eight years old so I am accustomed to being in front of people and I have confidence so I don’t really get nervous.
What is a secret no one knows about you?
My newest secret is I wear my Island Queen Crown when I wake up till I have to leave home and when I get back home till I am ready to sleep.
