Freeport, Bahamas - This Sunday, May 26th Miss Grand Bahama, Kristie Farah will hand over the crown to a new queen.  It's been an exciting year since she was crowned in May 25, 2012.  Some of the highlights of her year were the welcoming of the Golden Knights (Bahamas 4x4 Olympic team); the 39th Independence Celebrations; and attending many events that were important to the community of Grand Bahama.

"This past year has been enlightening in so many ways, as the experience and knowledge that I’ve gained has transformed me as an individual," said the 19 year old.  "All the events have encouraged me to remain involved within my community. I’ve become motivated to contribute positively to my environment through more than just community service, but by using my talents and creativity to assist and inspire others."

Being afforded the opportunity to work with talented local artists, and industrious merchants of Grand Bahama over the past year, Miss Grand Bahama said she's inspired to continue to work hard in pursuit of her dreams. "Being able to support breast cancer survivors and raise awareness of this illness has been a pleasure," she said elaborating on her platform of Breast Cancer Awareness.

This past January, Miss Grand Bahama represented The Bahamas at the Miss Coffee International pageant in Colombia.  "This was certainly a monumental experience, and being submersed in such a diverse arena has brought me to appreciate all cultures. The pageant opened my eyes to the splendor of diversity and sparked a new found passion for modeling. With the assistance of some of the contestants and the people of Colombia I quickly picked up on the local language (Spanish) and cultural norms. Although I may not have made the top 5, I could not have asked for more as it was truly an honour to represent my country."

I would like to thank the people of Grand Bahama for their inspiration and support. I plan to continue modeling and I look forward to passing this prestigious title on to another deserving young women.

With the mission of transforming “our young women into true ambassadors for our country," The Miss Grand Bahama Organization is dedicated to grooming young women of Grand Bahama into purpose-driven, community-minded, beautiful young ladies. As the nation celebrates its 40th birthday, the theme chosen for this year’s pageant is “The Flame: Celebrating Beauty and Independence.”
          
This year's contestants are Shequera King sponsored by La Vie Theaters; Jillian Lightbourne sponsored by Paris Whittaker & Co; Natasha Miller sponsored by Underwater Dream; Antonnesia Moxey sponsored by Sparktacular Bahamas; Regine Simmons sponsored by Event Designs by Jennifer; Roshea Watkins sponsored by Elements Accessories; and Lashanda Wildgoose sponsored by Pyramid Construction.

Official sponsors for the 2013 Miss Grand Bahama Beauty Pageant include Pelican Bay Hotel, the YMCA, The Bahamas Weekly, Bahamian Brewery and Beverage Company, Ayse Rengin Johnson and Company, Electronics Depot, Coldwell Banker James Sarles Realty, YKM Studios and Animale, Patrice, Escanti Shoe Store, Kelly's, The Bahamas Collection, Animale, Grand Bahama Yacht Club, Port Lucaya Marina, Coldwell Banker James Sarles Realty, Bristol Wine & Spirit, Butler Food world, Amoury, Municipal Motors, Veronica Ellis (Empress), 1.9.6. The Experience, Robbin Whachell, Kid's World, Dianne Johnson and Terreve College.

Next on the pageant agenda is the Float Parade and National Costume competition on Friday, May 24th with the float parade starting at 5pm from the YMCA, and ending with costume judging starting at 8pm, by the docks of the  Port Lucaya  Marina.

The Miss Grand Bahama Beauty Pageant finale takes place this Sunday, May 26th at the Grand Lucayan Ball Room. Pre-show starts at 8:15 pm with the Main show at 9pm. Tickets are on sale at The Art of Giving in the International Bazaar.

The organization will be giving away 2 VIP tickets. In order to be eligible you must Like their Facebook page.