The University of the Virgin Islands will host the Mister and Miss UVI Ambassadorial Competition on Sunday, April 20, at 6 p.m. in the LaVerne E. Ragster Administration and Conference Center Building on the Orville E. Kean Campus on St. Thomas.
This year’s competition, themed “A Royal Wonderland: A Journey of Excellence, Elegance, and Enchantment,” will highlight three student leaders vying for the coveted titles of 2nd Mister UVI and 45th Miss UVI. Presented by the UVI Student Government Association’s (SGA) Joint Ambassadorial Committee, the event recognizes students for their intellect, leadership, and commitment to community service.
“This competition is more than a pageant—it’s a platform where student leaders amplify their voices and represent UVI with pride,” said Cylysce Smith, chairperson of the UVI SGA Ambassadorial Committee. “It’s an opportunity to spotlight student talent and inspire advocacy rooted in purpose.”
The contestants in this year’s competition bring to the forefront grace, style, and intellect. Two young women will vie for the title of Miss UVI Ambassadorial Queen: Asha A.S. Hyndman, 21, contestant number one, is a junior biology major who champions eye care accessibility through her platform, “Looking Good: Eye Care Education for All.” “UVI has cultivated my growth as an ambassador,” Hyndman said. “This competition allows me to advocate for vision care and inspire others to overcome adversity—just like the rare flower that blooms in difficult conditions.” Her motto: “The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all.” – Mulan.
Contestant number two, Jahnique M. Francis, 20, a senior biology major with a minor in psychology, is a certified mental health first aider and passionate advocate for student well-being. Her platform, H.O.P.E – Healing, Outreach, Prevention, and Education, promotes mental health awareness and early intervention. “Miss UVI is more than a crown; it is a call to serve, inspire, and uplift,” Francis said. “Through H.O.P.E, I turn personal pain into purpose.” She draws inspiration from The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz.
Rayhan Sabur, 19, a sophomore applied mathematics major, is the sole male contender for the title of Mister UVI. He focuses on the intersection of physical and mental health through his platform, Mental Health Output through Physical Activity. “Physical activity changed my life, and I want to inspire others to explore it as a tool for mental wellness,” Sabur said. “This journey is about resilience, representation, and encouraging strength through self-care.”
Winners of the competition will serve as UVI’s official student ambassadors, representing the university at recruitment events, campus initiatives, and regional engagements. They will also represent UVI at national competitions, including the Mister and Miss HBCU competition in January 2026. “The Mister and Miss UVI titles are not just symbolic,” said Dr. Leslyn Tonge, Dean of Students. “These roles reflect UVI’s values of excellence, leadership, and service.”
Tickets will be on sale and will be available from the Student Activities Office, the UVI Bookstore, and the Student Housing Office on the Orville E. Kean campus. On the Albert A. Sheen campus, tickets can be purchased from the Student Center and the St. Croix Bookstore. UVI Students (with valid ID): $15; Faculty & Staff: $20; General Admission: $30. Guests are encouraged to purchase early. Ticket sale dates will be announced soon.
For more information, contact:
AAS Campus: aas_student_activity@live.uvi.edu
OEK Campus: jelani.smalls@uvi.edu
