Kingston, Jamaica: Literacy is at the heart of Ashley-Nicole Lawrence’s vision as she begins her reign as Miss Hanover Festival Queen 2025.
The 26-year-old educator, crowned on June 14 at Rusea’s High School in Lucea, is stepping into the spotlight with a mission that is both timely and deeply personal: to address the literacy challenges facing children in her parish and inspire them to know that they are not being left behind—they are in the process of becoming stronger, smarter, and more confident.
“As a teacher, I have seen first-hand how a child's inability to read can affect every part of their life—not just academically, but in terms of confidence, creativity, and how they see themselves in the world. Some of the brightest thinkers in my classroom were struggling with reading, and their voices went unheard because of it. That broke my heart.”
Lawrence says her passion for literacy is rooted in her daily classroom experiences, where she has watched students struggle not because they lack intelligence, but because they have not been given the tools to succeed.
“My classroom experience did not just influence this decision—it completely shaped it. Being in the classroom every day showed me that students aren't at their best when they can’t read. They feel embarrassed, they withdraw. That’s why I made literacy the heart of my project.”
She plans to launch a grassroots reading initiative focused on early childhood and primary schools in Hanover.
“The goal is to catch these issues early—before they reach high school and feel like they have already failed. Literacy is not just about words on a page—it is about empowerment, opportunity, and building a future where our children are equipped to thrive.”
Beyond addressing skill gaps, Lawrence hopes to reignite a genuine love for reading among children.
“The issue is not always that the students cannot read—it is that they do not love to. This programme is about changing that. We will also involve families and communities, because literacy doesn’t stop in the classroom. It continues in our homes, our churches, our daily lives.”
She emphasizes that her initiative is about more than academics—it’s about healing and belief.
“This programme is not just about books—it’s about belief,” she says. “It is about creating a safe, engaging space where children can explore reading at their own pace. Because the truth is, many children can read—but they don’t enjoy it. In Hanover, where resources are limited, this programme offers hope, access, and a new sense of possibility. I truly believe it will light a spark that goes far beyond the page.”
A recent report revealing that nearly 70% of grade-seven students at a Corporate Area school are reading below grade level has fueled national concern. For Lawrence, the data confirms what she has witnessed firsthand as an educator—and what now fuels her purpose. “I’m determined that the children of Hanover won’t fall through the same cracks.”
Now preparing for the Miss Jamaica Festival Queen Competition on August 2, Lawrence remains focused on her goal: using her reign to uplift young readers.
To struggling readers, she offers a simple but powerful message: “I love you. Keep trying. Keep pushing on.” Just because it is difficult now doesn’t mean it always will be. Every great reader started with one word, one sentence, one page.”
Rounding out the top placements were Dajae Taylor (Miss JDA Shipping and Construction), who secured second place and was recognized as Most Active in the Community, and Shianna McLean (Miss Top Shipping), who placed third and earned the awards for Most Poised and Best Performance. Completing the Top Five were Renecia Bernad (Miss LYL Ultrasound), named Most Popular on Social Media, and Calicia Hines (Miss Cousins Cove Adventure Park). The national competition is presented by the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) and is supported by sponsors including the CHASE Fund, Airports Authority of Jamaica, National Housing Trust, HEART/NSTA Trust, PICA, and Excelsior.
