The Tribune

By CARA HUNT

Tribune Features Writer

cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

Shawndra Henfield proved the old adages right last Sunday when she was crowned Miss Universe Bahamas -  true beauty comes from inside, hard work is its own reward, practice makes perfect and always put God first.

The 23-year-old computer analyst and Exuma native dazzled judges and her fans throughout the gruelling and intense pageant process, looking flawless and unfazed every time she stepped out into the lights.

But now that the competition is over, she admits to Tribune Woman, just how challenging it was really was.

“The hardest part about the competition was definitely the physical and mental toll it had,” she said. “My feet were constantly in pain during the beginning stages, and that was a lot to overcome. It was also a true test of willpower to work a 9–5 job while showing up to all the pageant events and giving my best every single time.

“My preparation consisted of one word: practice. I practiced until the gym closed and I was the last one there. I practiced after major events like the motorcade, even when I was extremely exhausted. Practice is what gave me the confidence that everyone saw on that stage Sunday night.”

It not only gave her confidence, it won her a crown.

“The most rewarding part was seeing all of that hard work pay off. Every early morning, late night, and sacrifice led to one incredible moment that made it all worth it.”

It was a single moment in the spotlight that made up for several she had missed through her life.

“When the crown was placed on my head, I was definitely in shock,” she said. “But after a few minutes, I felt relief. I graduated high school in 2020 during the pandemic in the parking lot of my school, and I always felt as though I kept getting robbed of the moments that were meant to celebrate me. When I walked across the stage at UB, I was happy, but I had to cut the celebrations short because I had an 8am class the next day.”

This time though she said, “finally, I get to live in the moment and really enjoy being celebrated.”

And now it’s time to get to work being Miss Universe Bahamas.

Shawndra says that she was drawn to what the crown represented when she decided to enter.

“I decided this was something I wanted because of what the pageant programme actually offered. It truly was a women’s empowerment programme, and I was looking for a challenge. I was also drawn to what the crown represents. It’s an opportunity to reach so many more people with my platform and to represent my country on a global stage, which is something I have always wanted.”

She will have that chance on November 4, when she competes in the Miss Universe pageant in San Juan Puerto Rico.

“I’m most excited for the journey to the Miss Universe stage. Through this pageant experience, I actually fell in love with modelling, so I’m excited to learn new techniques and really strengthen my walk.”

She is working on the nerves for that competition, “As for being nervous, the Bible says, ‘Be anxious for nothing,’ so I’m doing my best not to give myself anxiety or worry about things that may never even happen. I want this reign to be filled with amazing memories that not only make an impact on the lives of others but also become memories I can cherish for the rest of my life.”

Shawndra chose a platform that is deeply personal and important to her - The Open Doors Project - an initiative focused on educating Bahamians about the different pathways to homeownership and housing.

“A few years ago, at the age of 21, my family home was foreclosed on,” she explained. “That was a time in my life when I experienced true grief. The home I had grown up in was being ripped away, and there was nothing we could do about it. During that time, my emotions cycled between shame and insecurity. I worried about where we would stay and, if we had to rent, how we would afford it,” she said.

“We later moved in with my grandmother, where I remember using a drill to take down sheetrock and mixing cement. Things that were completely new to me and that I never imagined I would be doing.”

And she wants to share that knowledge with Bahamians.

“I also want to raise awareness about the current housing crisis we are facing.Twenty one year old Shawndra was afraid to express what was happening in her life, but now, at 23, I share my story and my platform boldly because I know it can inspire and help others,” she said.

And finally she offered this advice for the other young ladies: “Always put God first. He will blow your mind with how far He can take you. Also, be courageous enough to embrace the opportunities that come before you. The thing that could change your life may be just one risk away.”