Tahje Bennett reflects on a reign of growth, purpose

Giving back has always come naturally to her, shaped by a humble upbringing where sharing with others was second nature. After being elevated to one of Jamaica’s highest platforms with her Miss Jamaica World victory in 2024, she channelled that love for people into a mission through her foundation, which supports at-risk women and other vulnerable groups. As her reign comes to an end, Tahje Bennett reflects on a journey marked by a few potholes but defined by passion and purpose as she prepares to hand over the crown tonight at the Miss Jamaica World grand coronation.

Always a champion for the needs of women and young girls, Bennett has long promoted self-sufficiency and self-worth through her Fix Your Crown foundation, teaching that where you start in life should not determine where you end up.

“I think the biggest highlight for me is going back to Spanish Town Hospital when I started my foundation before being crowned and just seeing how happy and motivated these women were to see me and celebrate my accomplishments as well as share their own present successes. It was just a full-circle moment for me,” she told Sunday Lifestyle.

At its core, her foundation seeks to empower survivors of gender-based violence through classes and workshops ranging from financial independence to life coaching on making better choices in interpersonal relationships.

Describing herself as a ‘people person’, Bennett said stepping up to advocate for those she calls survivors, not victims, came naturally as she grew up in a household affected by domestic violence. Advocacy, she explained, became second nature.

“It’s really my personal story as I witnessed violence in the home from childhood, so I use my story and my voice to amplify the stories of others and just show people that there are safe spaces that enable and empower women,” she added.

“One of my favourite things to do is outreach projects that require going to homes, schools, and community centres. I get to speak to little girls, and they ask me questions about self-esteem and other topics. It warms my heart to be able to give back through community service. I enjoyed every bit of it. My reign has definitely contributed to my character development. Just to be able to reach out and meet so many diverse people and interact with women from various backgrounds was something both refreshing and eye-opening.”

This is growth for a simple girl from St Johns Road, just on the outskirts of Spanish Town. The Jose Marti High alum will be the first to admit that she can totally understand people who are plagued with self-doubt as she, too, had times when she did not feel worthy of her successes in life.

“My challenge has always been my personal growth and fighting the ‘imposter syndrome’. There have been several times when I felt I wasn’t deserving if I was doing well enough. So it challenged me mentally. Luckily, I was able to stay the course and redirect my thoughts to realise that yes, I am enough. Strong mental health is critical to navigating life not just as a public figure or someone in the limelight, but for everyone,” Bennett explained.

The 26-year-old shared that one of the greatest takeaways from her reign is just how to really put yourself out there. “You are never going to grow if you are always in the same place and remain in your comfort zone. Real growth comes with obstacles and challenges. You never know what life can bring or what the reward may be.”

Stepping onto the world stage to compete in the 72nd Miss World in Telangana, India, last May, Bennett had another surreal experience, securing a spot in the Top 10 for the Americas and the Caribbean and finishing in the overall Top 40 of the competition.

In a Sunday Gleaner article published in May 2025, she shared that stepping onto the international stage was far more than a personal milestone.

“Representing Jamaica on the global Miss World stage here in India is truly a dream come true,” Bennett said, adding. “It’s an overwhelming mix of pride, gratitude, and deep responsibility.”

Currently completing her law studies and driven by a passion for justice, Bennett—who aspires to become an attorney—advises the new queen to stay focused on her goals and never lose sight of what truly matters.

“Make sure you have a backbone. It is needed in every aspect of the job. Don’t be afraid of growth or discomfort and always remember your ‘why’. That is what will keep you going. There may be moments when you will be hard on yourself and wonder if you are deserving of any accolades you received and if you are doing a good job or representing well enough. That’s fine. It happens and these doubts will pass. Just breathe and trust the process by remembering the reason you entered, and that will keep you going. Just know that you are always enough,” she said.

After being postponed from November 2 last year because of Hurricane Melissa, the grand coronation takes place tonight at 8 p.m. at the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium, Jamaica College, St Andrew, with 18 hopefuls competing for the crown.

nicola.cunningham@gleanerjm.com