The Miss Amerindian Heritage Pageant brought a stunning conclusion to Heritage Month 2024, with 10 delegates lighting up the stage at the National Cultural Centre on Tuesday, September 30. The event celebrated the beauty, talent, intelligence, and cultural pride of the contestants, who showcased their unique Amerindian heritage before a live audience and an online viewership exceeding 400,000.
Representing Region Nine, Noreen Alfred, a proud Macushi woman, captivated the judges and took home the prestigious Miss Amerindian Heritage Queen title. In addition to the crown, she earned multiple accolades, including Winner of the Indigenous Challenge, Best Traditional Wear, and Best Talent.
Joining her in the top five were: First runner-up Miss Region One, Arinna Williams; Second Runner-up Miss Region Eight, Sandra Edwards; Third Runner-up Miss Region Seven, Sylvany Robertson; and Fourth Runner-up Miss Region Ten, Andrena Stoby. Robertson also claimed the Miss Congeniality and Best Evening Gown titles. Over $1 million in cash prizes were distributed among the delegates, with special awards for Best Talent, Best Traditional Wear, and Best Gown.
Noreen Alfred’s winning talent performance, featuring dramatic poetry and a fire dance, depicted the ancestral use of Kundu drums and earned her high praise. Her traditional wear, intricately designed with decorated turtle shells, arrow points, and authentic leather from the Rupununi, impressed the judges for its artistry and cultural significance.
Sylvany Robertson from Region Seven won Best Evening Gown for her meticulously crafted dress, which highlighted her cultural heritage through symbolic details. Arinna Williams of Region One stood out for her eloquent response in the final question segment, securing her position as first runner-up.
The winner was determined by overall scores that encompassed both on-stage performances and participation in off-stage activities, such as the Indigenous Challenge.
As the newly crowned Miss Amerindian Heritage Queen, Noreen Alfred will serve as a cultural ambassador for Amerindian communities across the country during her two-year reign. She and the other delegates will return to their regions to continue promoting and preserving their rich indigenous heritage.
The Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, remains dedicated to advancing indigenous culture, with this pageant being one of many initiatives. Amerindian Heritage Month 2024 was celebrated under the theme “Many Voices, One Song,” highlighting unity and cultural pride.
