Caribbean National Weekly

Matea Mahal Smith crowned Miss Jamaica World 2026

By Joanne Clark··1 min read
Matea Mahal Smith crowned Miss Jamaica World 2026
Key Points(5)
  • Matea Mahal Smith has been crowned Miss Jamaica World 2026, emerging victorious from a field of 23 contestants at Sunday's grand coronation at the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium at Jamaica College in St.
  • The 24-year-old aspiring doctor, who represented Miss Aveeno, was crowned by outgoing titleholder Neveah Allen.
  • Daniella Bullock, representing Haven Beauty House, was named first runner-up and awarded the Miss International Jamaica title, while Celine Walters, who wore the Miss Frazsiers Whip sash, placed second runner-up and received the Miss Earth Jamaica title.
  • Mahal Smith had already secured a place in the competition's Top 12 after winning the Fitness Fast Track challenge last month.
  • A cum laude graduate of the University of Florida, she holds a Bachelor of Science degree in behavioral and cognitive neuroscience and is a Board Certified Patient Advocate.

Matea Mahal Smith has been crowned Miss Jamaica World 2026, emerging victorious from a field of 23 contestants at Sunday's grand coronation at the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium at Jamaica College in St. Andrew.

The 24-year-old aspiring doctor, who represented Miss Aveeno, was crowned by outgoing titleholder Neveah Allen.

Daniella Bullock, representing Haven Beauty House, was named first runner-up and awarded the Miss International Jamaica title, while Celine Walters, who wore the Miss Frazsiers Whip sash, placed second runner-up and received the Miss Earth Jamaica title.

Mahal Smith had already secured a place in the competition's Top 12 after winning the Fitness Fast Track challenge last month.

A cum laude graduate of the University of Florida, she holds a Bachelor of Science degree in behavioral and cognitive neuroscience and is a Board Certified Patient Advocate. She is currently pursuing post-baccalaureate studies at the University of New England as she works toward becoming a medical doctor.

Her philanthropic work includes Love Always, Matea, a Beauty With a Purpose initiative she founded in 2022 to support children and young people facing illnesses, disabilities and other life-changing circumstances.

According to the Miss Jamaica World organization, the initiative's reach extends across Jamaica, the Philippines and the United States. Mahal Smith also serves as an ambassador for Sophie's Place Children's Home in Kingston and spearheaded a 5K fundraiser that raised US$4,000 for Hurricane Melissa relief, supporting more than 100 families and individuals.

In announcing her victory, the pageant organization described the new queen's work as a mission shaped by personal adversity and a commitment to ensuring that others feel supported.

Mahal Smith will represent Jamaica at the Miss World 2027 competition in Tanzania. Bullock and Walters are also expected to represent the country at their respective international pageants in the coming months.

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