On October 21, Tropical Storm Melissa formed in the central Caribbean Sea and quickly intensified into a powerful Category 5 hurricane, the third-most intense Atlantic hurricane ever recorded. The storm caused devastating damage across multiple Caribbean islands, with Jamaica suffering one of the worst impacts in its history. Hurricane Melissa became the strongest hurricane ever to make landfall on the island, leaving widespread destruction in its wake.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, reigning Miss World Jamaica Tahje Bennet and the Miss World Jamaica 2025 contestants came together to raise awareness and mobilize aid for those affected. Using their platforms, they shared information about helplines, shelters, and ways to donate, while offering words of hope and encouragement to their fellow Jamaicans.

Bennet shared: “It breaks my heart to see my sweet, sweet Jamaica like this. So many homes, so many lives, so many memories, gone in the blink of an eye. Hurricane Melissa didn’t just pass through; she tore through the soul of our island, leaving behind heartbreak, silence, and strength being tested in ways we never imagined.

Driving through, seeing children asking for water to drink, people stopping us to ask if we had anything for them to eat. Those moments will never leave me. It’s hard to put into words how it feels to see your people proud, joyful, strong Jamaicans brought to their knees by something beyond their control.

But if there’s one thing I know about Jamaica, it’s that we rise. From the rubble, from the pain, from the tears we rebuild, we restore, and we shine again. 

If you’re in a position to help, please do. Donate food, water, clothes, or even your time. Reach out, check in, show love.  Every small act of kindness is a seed of hope and together, we can grow something beautiful again.”

Among those who took action is Nevaeh Allen, a Miss Jamaica World contestant. She shared a moving account of her relief mission:

“November 2nd was a day of compassion in Southwest St. Elizabeth! After Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on October 26th, we knew we had to help. In partnership with Pro Hardwares, Balbo Windows, and others, we organized a relief trip to Black River, Siloah, and Bagdale Mountain, distributing essential supplies: rice, flour, tinned foods, bread, sugar, toiletries, candles, clothing, and even a mattress.

I’m deeply thankful to everyone who contributed, including Balbo Windows & More, who provided transportation and even donated a brand-new power inverter to my family’s community. This will give them much-needed electricity for communication and staying connected with loved ones.”

Nevaeh reflected on the emotional significance of the experience, noting that November 2nd had originally been scheduled for the Miss Jamaica World finals, which were postponed due to the disaster.

“Instead of sadness, we chose to channel our energy into action, supporting our brothers and sisters in need. ‘We likkle but we tallawah’ has never meant more to me. God bless Jamaica!”

Another contestant, Norbreyna Scarlett, also took initiative, launching an extensive relief and rebuilding operation in three communities: Perth Town, Gravesend, and Garredu.

“When disaster strikes, true purpose shines,” she said. “Yesterday I had the honour of giving back to three communities close to my heart. With the support of Good Samaritans abroad, Project S.P.A.C.E lived up to its name, putting real care into action. Empowerment isn’t just about building spaces; it’s about showing up when people need it most.”

Norbreyna’s Beauty with a Purpose initiative, Project S.P.A.C.E (Scarlett’s Platform for Access, Care and Empowerment), is dedicated to community empowerment through education, skills training, and outreach. Following Hurricane Melissa, she used the project to deliver relief packages to victims and help families rebuild their lives.

Recently, the Miss World Jamaica contestants also took part in the Head-to-Head Challenge, where they demonstrated their eloquence, compassion, and commitment to the Miss World ethos of Beauty with a Purpose.

Through their combined efforts, these young women have turned tragedy into testimony, using their voices, actions, and compassion to restore hope across Jamaica. Their example stands as a powerful reminder that when beauty meets purpose, lives are changed and communities are rebuilt.

Due to this tragedy, the Miss Jamaica World 2025 contest, originally scheduled to happen on November 2, has been postponed.