Eight (8) 2017 Carnival Mothers Queen Contestants officially launched at Calypso House on Saturday

Photo Credit: Dominica News Online

​Eight (8) Carnival Mothers Queen Contestants were officially launched on Saturday 10th December 2016, at the Dominica Calypso House in Bath Estate, to vie for the 2017 title. They are Tamika Burgins of Thibaud, Delah Gachette of Elmshall, Juesther Prentice of Silver Lake, Royette Cooke of St Joseph, Ann-Marie Cornelius of Castle Bruce, Nellister Tavernier of Scottshead, Aquenel Victorine of Goodwill, and Alix Warrington who is also of Goodwill, but resides in Switzerland.
 
Warrington is being sponsored by Dominica Swiss Diaspora, and is the only contestant who has secured a sponsor so far. Member of the 2017 Carnival Queen Committee Kendra Stephen gave the official welcoming remarks. The event is carded for 18th January 2017, beginning at 8pm at the Arawak House of Culture.

​Kendra Stephen, Executive Member of the 2017 Carnival Queen Committee
 
The contestants are expected to make appearances in six segments: Opening number, Talent Performance, Swim Wear, Spectacular Wear, Evening Wear and Question & Answer. The aim of the show is said to be to portray the traditional costume of Dominica, to highlight the talent of mother’s, to contribute towards the Carnival, and to give back to the needy in different communities.
 
Meantime, Reigning Mother’s Queen Miss Erna Reynolds, who addressed the launching ceremony, told the new contestants that the road to the throne is challenging, but in the end so much will be learnt, observed and felt. She said, “There will be days of frustration, times of panic and moments of uncertainty”. However, she noted that being resilient in the face of these obstacles will define the outcome on the night of the show.
 
She added “Keep the faith, work hard and you will persevere. Keep in mind that all things that glitter are not gold, but put your best foot forward and you will shine brighter than a diamond. Be proud, because our children are our legacies.” The committee plans to give back to CHANCES, a facility for children at risk, in 2017.