5 Questions With Celene Hall

When Celene Hall’s name was called as Miss Universe Jamaica 2026 on Sunday at the AC Hotel Kingston, her parents, Victor and Sonia Hall, were proud to see the 25-year-old’s hard work and behind-the-scenes sacrifices pay off. Although her parents never imagined that pageantry would lead their daughter to represent Jamaica, the victory was not entirely unexpected. “One thing we did know is that when Celene has a dream, she goes after it,” Victor shared. “So looking at her now, it’s surprising in one way, but in another way, it makes perfect sense.”

For the Portland native, who also holds the parish title, having the support of her parents and five siblings “meant everything”.

“My sisters, in particular, were such an important part of this journey. They were my sounding boards and showed up for me in ways both big and small,” Hall told The Gleaner.

An executive manager in the shipping and logistics industry, Hall is also a visual artist, fitness enthusiast, and founder of The Hummingbird Effect Foundation, which works to improve educational spaces and address resource gaps through its N.E.S.T. (Nurturing Educational Spaces Together) initiative. She hopes to use her reign to encourage other women to take chances on themselves and pursue opportunities that challenge them to grow. “The crown has changed, but my purpose hasn’t. My reach has simply become greater,” she said.

As she prepares to represent Jamaica at the 75th Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico later this year, 5 Questions With... caught up with the newly crowned queen to learn more about the woman behind the title and the faith and family that continue to ground her.

1. What was your reaction when you heard your name called as Miss Universe Jamaica 2026?

Surreal is still the word I keep coming back to. I had already received several sectional awards that night, but I genuinely did not allow myself to believe I had won until the crown was actually placed on my head. When I heard my name, there was gratitude, disbelief, excitement, and this overwhelming realisation that something I had worked so hard for had actually happened.

But very quickly, the feeling became bigger than winning a competition. I realised I was going to represent Jamaica. That carries a completely different weight. I went from representing Portland, the parish that raised me, to being entrusted with representing an entire country. That is an incredible honour and responsibility, and I don’t take either lightly.

2. Who is Celene Hall beyond the crown?

I’m very grounded in the simple things that bring me joy. I love nature, especially rivers, which probably comes naturally with being a Portland girl. I love soup, I have a serious weakness for ice cream, and although you probably wouldn’t guess it, I can eat up to six boiled dumplings in one sitting! (Laughs) More than anything, I enjoy spending quality time with the people I love.

3. What do you hope to achieve during your reign?

I want my reign to be remembered for purpose and impact. The Hummingbird Effect Foundation will remain central to that. Through our flagship education initiative, N.E.S.T., we are working to support students with essential educational resources while helping to create physical environments that are more conducive to learning.

I also want to be an authentic representation of Jamaica and everything that makes us extraordinary. We are a small island with an undeniable presence. We are bold, resilient, and confident, and wherever Jamaicans go in the world, we have a way of standing out and leaving our mark.

4. What does your preparation for the 75th Miss Universe competition involve?

The preparation has already begun, and now everything intensifies. From physical training, runway and stage preparation to interviews, current affairs, wardrobe and wellness, every detail matters.

I’m incredibly grateful to the Miss Universe Jamaica Portland team, whose preparation and investment helped get me ready for the national stage. Now, that foundation is being strengthened by the hard-working Miss Universe Jamaica team, who are dedicating their expertise, time, and energy to preparing me to represent Jamaica at the highest level.

5. Tell us about the support system behind you throughout this journey.

I truly had a village behind me. My parents, siblings, extended family, friends, sponsors, and my entire Miss Universe Jamaica Portland family supported me throughout this journey. My parish director, Shanique Rogers, was an integral part of that village, believing in me and pouring into my preparation from Portland all the way to the national stage. This crown may be sitting on my head, but there are so many hands and hearts behind it.

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