Antigua and Barbuda’s very own Desrie Markham, the reigning Miss Antigua and Barbuda Queen of Carnival 2024, is poised to take to the regional stage once again; this time as a delegate in the upcoming Miss Caribbean Universe pageant, slated for June 14, in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands.
After capturing the Queen of Carnival crown in 2024, she went on to impress judges and audiences alike, securing the position of 1st runner-up at the Jaycees Caribbean Queen Show. With her sights now set on the Miss Caribbean Universe crown, Her Majesty continues to rise, inspiring many with her passion, and purpose.
Senator Shenella Govia, on behalf of Minister Daryll Matthew and the Department of Creative Industries, extends her heartfelt best wishes to the reigning Queen of Carnival, as she prepares to represent A&B on the regional stage at the Miss Caribbean Universe Pageant.
Senator Govia expressed her confidence in Markam’s ability to shine, stating that “Desrie embodies the very essence of talent, grace, and cultural pride. Her journey thus far is a testament to her dedication and passion for the creative arts. I have no doubt that she will represent Antigua and Barbuda with excellence, strength, and poise, leaving an indelible mark wherever she goes. As Desrie travels to this pageant, she carries with her the hopes and pride of a nation. We stand firmly behind her and wish her nothing but success in the competition ahead.”
Markham is also a powerful voice for change, culture, and community. During her reign, she launched ArtBeat, an initiative celebrating young creatives across Antigua and Barbuda. Through ArtBeat, the 2025 queen is highlighting the contributions of youth to the nation’s cultural fabric, and promoting the ways in which young people continue to shape and preserve the Antiguan and Barbudan identity.
Continuing her advocacy work, Ms Queen of Carnival brings her platform “DRAMA: A Safe Space for the Depressed, Deprived, and Delinquent” to the Miss Caribbean Universe stage. Focused on the healing power of dramatherapy and dramaturgy, her platform speaks to her deep belief in the arts as a form of mental health support and emotional restoration, particularly for vulnerable youth.
A woman of intellect and impact, Markham is also a Crown Counsel within the Attorney General’s Chambers and was attached to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Her legal acumen has seen her champion the introduction of Competition Law and Policy in Antigua and Barbuda. She served as the national focal point for the inaugural OECS and CARICOM Competition Commission (CCC) joint workshop, which educated key stakeholders on the necessary legislative frameworks, challenges, and benefits of competition law. Her expertise has earned her invitations to speak on Competition Law and Policyat the 2025 Antigua and Barbuda Diplomatic Encounter, as well as represent the nation at the 7th Reconvened Meeting of the Task Force on the Implementation of Chapter Eight of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas which took place in Bridgetown Barbados, May 15 and 16, 2025.
With the imminent Miss Caribbean Universe pageant, Desrie Markham is calling on the people of Antigua and Barbuda to rally behind her with unwavering support. The social media platforms for Miss Caribbean Universe have already introduced the dazzling line-up of delegates and anticipation is building for what promises to be a thrilling eight-segment competition showcasing talent, intellect, cultural pride, and grace.
