Instead of an introduction of the ten delegates at the start of the show, there was an entertainment item that filled the hour-long void that had elapsed after the time the show was scheduled to start. This followed with an appearance of the delegates in swimsuit, and what was supposed to be a ten-minute intermission, which lasted almost an hour. The show then moved directly into the evening gown segment and the Q&A. The girls paraded in evening gowns in keeping with the national colours—red, white and black. Miss Independence director, Nickeisha Durham, said she flew Ashley Alfonzo into the country to host the show.
Alfonzo, however, failed to bring the show to life, and the tolerant audience learned to ignored her repetition of the obvious questions; “How are you doing? Are you all enjoying the show?” In the build-up to the annual event, the delegates were expected to choose a platform, from which they were expected to work for a related charitable organisation—a criteria that grew insignificant with the competition. Patrons complained that the show was not worth the price of a ticket. The official prize-giving ceremony is expected to take place on Republic Day.
Awards
Miss Photogenic – Allissa Adams
Miss Congeniality – Kathesa London
Most Charitable Delegate –
Nicole Britton
Miss Spirit of Independence – Meenakshi Sharma
Most Beautiful Face –
Laura Lee Jacob
Most Dedicated Delegate – Leeselle Saroop
Most Improved – Viah Collins
Best Gown – Tricia Simmons
