Carnival Queens Dig In!

Added: 2026-05-22

[00:00:00]The forested trails of the Millet Bird Sanctuary became a center for environmental activism on Thursday, May 14th, as the 2026 National Carnival Queen contestants took part in a reforestation effort. This marks the second year that the Carnival Planning and Management Committee CPMC and the National Carnival Queen Committee have collaborated on this green initiative.

[00:00:23]The contestants, accompanied by their sponsors and CPMC representatives, collectively planted 14 trees throughout the sanctuary, a site renowned for its rich biodiversity, including five endemic bird species, such as the St. Lucian parrot. CPMC Chairperson Tamara Gibson emphasized that this initiative is part of an effort to ensure St. Lucian Carnival leaves a lasting positive footprint beyond the stage. A tangible expression of sustainability is tree planting. So, we're here today to do that, and we're not just going to put roots in the soil [snorts] today. We This for us is our expression that we understand the importance of the earth, of nature, and what the impact is on society. For the contestants, the experience provided a departure from the high-pressure environment of pageant preparation, allowing them to engage directly with environmental conservation.

[00:01:30]The effort aligns with the Queens for Change initiative, which promotes social responsibility and positive change among the delegates. National Carnival Queen Committee Public Relations Officer Consuelo highlighted the importance of this shift in focus. And one of the things that we want to do through sustainability is actually teach the ladies how to preserve and how to support the environment. And considering that this is within a bird a bird sanctuary as well, it's the perfect way for us to ensure that we are taking care of nature. So the ladies today got to do some tree planting.

[00:02:08]We planted 14 trees today. So that is an amazing amazing accomplishment for us.

[00:02:14]This is our second year doing this and we hope that we have many more years to come.

[00:02:18]>> The Ministry of Agriculture noted that the Millet Bird Sanctuary is a vital ecological site offering visitors views of the John Compton Dam and Mount Gimie.

[00:02:29]By hosting events like this, the Forestry Department hopes to encourage the public to develop a deeper personal connection with nature.

[00:02:36]If we can foster greater interaction, it means that we would see how beautiful the island is and as well as probably take more steps in protecting our green spaces and make better use of, you know, our natural resources.

[00:02:54]So I am happy to welcome the Carnival Queen contestants and it is very nice that you all actually decided to spend some time with us in nature. As the 2026 pageant season progresses, the contestants' involvement in the Millet project sets a standard for advocacy and environmental stewardship, proving that the crown represents more than just poise and talent. It represents a commitment to the future of St. Lucia's natural landscape.

[00:03:26]Shane Stephen MBC Prime.