International competition to be held outside of the US for the first time
NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Ambassadors of Change Incorporated (AOC) is working with the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation to stage the 2021 Miss Black International Ambassador Scholarship (MBIA) Pageant from June 21 to 27, 2021, at Baha Mar Grand Hyatt Resort in Nassau, Bahamas.
Over 40 women representing 40 regions and countries are expected to compete for four coveted Black International Ambassador crowns, including winners for the Miss, Teen, Ms and Mrs divisions, and for thousands of dollars in cash and scholarships, business grants and prizes.
Contestants ranging in ages from 14 to 60 years old are expected to compete from across the United States of America, Bahamas, Cameroon, Haiti, Trinidad & Tobago and US Virgin Islands. Now in its eighth year, this year marks the first time the MBIA is being held outside of the United States.
According to Patrice Harrison, CEO and founder of MBIA and AOC: “The decision to host this year’s pageant was a personal one for me. MBIA has previously worked with representatives from The Bahamas to conduct workshops and conferences for young ladies there.
“The Bahamas is one of the most beautiful places on earth, with stunning backdrops, peaceful settings and amazing hospitality. Additionally, The Bahamas has done a great job in handling the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only have they implemented early, stringent safety protocols to keep covid cases at bay, The Bahamas is also creating a bubble where each contestant will be COVID-tested prior to participating, ensuring that the ladies not only enjoy themselves but have a safe experience.”
Among the planned events is an all-white reception with traditional Junkanoo fair, entitled “An Evening of Black Girl Joy”, with special celebrity guest, award-winning singer and song writer Anthony Hamilton; former Editor and Chief of Essence Magazine Mikki Taylor; and Philanthropist Tracey Mourning.
They will host a preliminary competition featuring a national dress and costume parade hosted by celebrity guest and Revolt TV Correspondent Brianna Harmon.
Organizers will also host 100 young ladies from group homes, orphanages and youth organizations. The young ladies will be treated to lunch, journals, hair and beauty supplies, toiletries and back-to-school supplies. The youth will hear from several motivational speakers, including nine-year-old actress and influencer Charity Joy Harrison; teen social media influencer and owner of Curlanistas Lexi P; and the current MBIA queens.
The final competition and crowning of the four queens will take place at the Grand Hyatt Bahamas on Saturday, June 26, 2021, hosted by Singer and former Miss Black US Ambassador Ayanna and Cable Bahamas Executive Producer Jerome Swayer.
Tickets are currently on sale online and locally starting June 7 in Nassau, at Club One Fitness and Diamonds International. Due to safety protocols and restrictions, space is limited and social distancing will be enforced. Come dressed to impress — the final event will be taped live for television.
