The Haynes Smith Youth Club has appointed Essi Gaston, Lizca Bass, and Daneika Dickenson to its Miss Caribbean Talented Teen Committee, signaling a strategic push to elevate the 44th edition of the iconic pageant. Officials confirmed that the new members bring a wealth of experience across pageantry, education, performing arts, production, administration, and youth development, aiming to enhance the 2026 event.
New Leadership Brings Diverse Expertise
The Miss Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant has long served as a platform for youth talent, cultural expression, confidence-building, and regional unity. The appointments come as organizers accelerate preparations for the milestone edition.
Essi Gaston: Assistant Executive Director and Producer
Essi Gaston, a former queen of the Haynes Smith Miss Caribbean Talented Teen Pageant, has been named Assistant Executive Director and Producer. With a background as a choreographer and respected educator, Gaston will contribute to policy direction, support production planning, and help ensure a seamless, high-quality presentation. Her firsthand experience as a titleholder and choreographer is expected to significantly improve the staging of the pageant.
Lizca Bass: Overseeing Creative and Operational Excellence
Lizca Bass, an expert in performing arts and stage management, and an educator, will oversee key areas of creative, operational, and logistical excellence. She will supervise stage activities, support the smooth execution of production elements, and ensure that safety, timing, efficiency, and production standards are maintained throughout the pageant process.
Daneika Dickenson: Social Media and Contestant Coordination
Daneika Dickenson, crowned Miss National Carnival Queen in 2024–2025, will serve as Social Media Administrator and Contestant & Accommodation Coordinator. She will enhance the pageant’s online presence, improve digital audience engagement, manage contestant relations, and coordinate accommodation logistics.
Organizers expressed confidence that the combined expertise of the three appointees will elevate the 44th edition, continuing the pageant’s legacy of celebrating youth talent and cultural pride across the Caribbean.
