In a historic event on Thursday night, Delee Rabathaly, representing Zimbabwe, was crowned the first-ever Miss Afro Trinidad and Tobago 2026. The pageant, held at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts, was a vibrant celebration of African culture, fashion, and heritage, forming part of the country’s Emancipation celebrations.
Rabathaly, a 19-year-old hailing from Vistabella, expressed her victory as a surreal experience after extensive preparation. “I was sitting on the couch and I just said, ‘Wow,'” she shared, reflecting on the moment the win truly sunk in. Her involvement in cultural and dance activities over the years contributed to her success and her new role as an ambassador for African heritage in Trinidad and Tobago.
The event, hosted by the Ministry of Culture and Community Development, saw attendance from Minister Michelle Benjamin and Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. Contestants representing nations such as Cameroon, Seychelles, and Kenya showcased elaborate costumes inspired by traditional African designs. The evening also featured performances by Carvalho Productions and the Chaguanas Women and Youth Group, enhancing the cultural atmosphere.
Organizers hope to make this inaugural competition a permanent feature of the Emancipation celebrations, aiming to foster a deeper appreciation for African history and cultural expression. Rabathaly’s new role as Miss Afro Trinidad and Tobago positions her as a key figure in promoting future editions of the pageant and furthering African cultural heritage in the region.
