Aylesbury entrepreneur celebrates double success at Miss Caribbean UK final
A 21-year-old Aylesbury entrepreneur has thanked people in her hometown for their support after finishing as first runner-up in Miss Caribbean UK and winning the People's Champion award.
Ta-Jah Kelly, who runs beauty business Hair by TK, represented Barbados at the competition's final at the Shaw Theatre in London on October 17.
She described receiving the two awards as an emotional moment after months of preparation.
"It was honestly such an overwhelming and emotional moment. To be announced as People's Champion and then go on to finish as first runner-up overall was something I will always be incredibly proud of," she said.
"I put so much time, dedication and passion into this journey, so to see it all come together in that moment was truly special."
Ta-Jah, who was born in Aylesbury, had previously encouraged local people to support her bid for the People's Champion award.
She said winning the public vote was particularly meaningful because of the encouragement she had received from her community.
"Having the Aylesbury community behind me made this journey even more meaningful. I am so grateful to everyone who voted, shared my journey, encouraged me and believed in me," she said.
"It showed me the power of community and how, when people come together to support someone, they can make a truly lasting impact."
Representing Barbados was also a personal achievement for Ta-Jah, whose grandfather, Errol Lewis, was born on the Caribbean island before moving to the UK at the age of 18.
She said the competition had given her an opportunity to celebrate her family's heritage.
"It was about more than representing a country; it was about celebrating my roots, my family and the culture that has shaped me. I wanted to carry that with pride and make my family and the Barbadian community proud," she said.
Organisers Miss Caribbean UK praised Ta-Jah's determination and professionalism throughout the competition.
A spokesperson said: "Her achievement as First Runner-Up was thoroughly deserved, while receiving the People's Champion Award was particularly special.
"This award reflects the support, encouragement and connection she established with members of the public, whose votes recognised her contribution and presence throughout the competition."
Looking ahead, Ta-Jah hopes to use her experience to raise awareness of dementia and support community initiatives, while continuing to develop her hairstyling business.
She is also interested in exploring further opportunities in the beauty, fashion and events industries.
"This competition has given me so much confidence, and I see it as the beginning of a new chapter rather than the end of a journey," she said.