Thank you message from National Carnival Queen – Tishima Browne

The greater the obstacle, the grander the feeling when it has been overcome. As I write this message, I am still stunned. Overcoming so many obstacles to emerge victorious as the National Carnival Queen of St. Kitts and Nevis is an experience that will stay with me forever, just as the support that got me here is something I will never forget.

We all know the old maxim: “Anything is possible.” Like many others, I have used this mantra often and have recited it many times to encourage those around me, but honestly, I didn’t really believe it—until now. What I thought was impossible became possible, but it would never have been achievable without the help and guidance of Almighty God. The many signs He showed me have convinced me that winning was simply destiny.

First and foremost, many thanks to my family for making me believe that I can surmount any hurdles that come my way. To my mother, Kj, Loreal and Lasanna, you guys rock! I could never have done it without you.

A resounding thank you goes out to my hardworking chaperone, Janet Johnson. I am full of gratitude for your unwavering support and dedication; for never giving up; and for instilling in me the wisdom that I can overcome any complications, even when everything was falling apart. Truth be told, no one is ever fully equipped to take on the curve balls life tosses at them, but you have proved that with God, an amazing family and support, anything is possible.

Many thanks to all of our wonderful helpers, namely Javon Liburd, Vincia Browne, Trevicia “Barbie” Adams, Kimani Phillip and Dibeye Bass. I am grateful to you for forcing me outside of my comfort zone. You are so much more than the reasons behind my crown—you are now family.
To my sponsor, St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank, and particularly Ms. Dawne Williams, thank you very much. Having the support of my banking family was an amazing feeling. I never thought so much love and support could surround me. Your encouragement was overwhelming, and I truly feel like a blessed and lucky young woman.

As I strive to express how blessed I feel for all of the support I have received, these beautiful words from David Thomas come to mind: “Unselfish and noble actions are the most radiant pages in the biography of souls.” Indeed, I have met so many angels through this experience. To Mr. and Mrs. Michael Martin, your actions have impacted my soul in ways I could never fairly express. Thank you.

Many thanks to Ermelin Sebastian for sacrificing so much of your time to help me master the interview segment. To Jacinth Henry Martin, I could never thank you enough for your time and effort—especially on such short notice—to ensure I was ready to put on a show. Many thanks to Sylvester Williams for being my guardian angel and periodically checking in on me during my practice sessions. Lincoln Bass, I am grateful for all your help in preparing my music. Thank you also to Judith Rawlins of Brown Sugar for offering your service when I needed it most. Your genuine gesture of empathy in my moment of despair remains greatly appreciated.

There are so many more for whose assistance I am thankful, including Frederick Gillard, Sonia Carr, Ottis Bernier, Cheddi Bradshaw, Curtis Martin, Javeim Blanchette, Raziel Parris of Chronical Leverage Sounds, Jihan Williams, Keisha Isaac, Calvin Tobias, Francine Francis, Chantel Pemberton, Vestricia Llewellyn, SherryAnn Liburd, Alphin Thompson, Vikiesh Delaney and Randy Madray. All of you contributed to my victory, no matter how small or large your input.

To the St. Kitts & Nevis National Carnival Committee, thank you for giving me the opportunity to realise my dream. To my fellow contestants, thank you for a memorable experience and let us continue to give inspiration to those who have dreams similar to ours.
Finally, to the people of St. Kitts and Nevis, I understand that having this title is every bit as much a responsibility as it is an honour. I recognise and respect the importance of this role, and I relish the opportunity to give you my best. I hope to use this crown to raise awareness for my childhood-obesity platform and bring about positive changes in the lives of others. This experience has been a very humbling one, and I promise to remember and carry with me all the amazing life lessons I have learnt as I represent you as a national ambassador.

Thank you.