The winner of TSTT's inaugural Emancipation Queen Competition, won the hearts of the judges and the audience with her charming portrayal of a Gabonese woman who bubbled over enthusiastically about her country, a release said.
The Emancipation King and Queen Competition was introduced at TSTT's St Vincent Street compound, although the company has been observing Emancipation Day celebrations for more than two decades. Two of the executives in attendance included Rakesh Goswami, executive vice president (EVP) Strategic Alliance, Enterprise and Tobago Operations and Chevon Wilson, EVP Mobile Services (Ag).
Rosanne Edmund-Hudson, one of TSTT's customer service representatives was crowned the Emancipation Queen as she delivered a riveting description of Gabon's history as a former colony of the Portuguese and of the French; its culture; and its geography. Her speech was fluent and laced with the occasional French parlance for emphasis. Her presentation drew loud applause, cheers and whistles from her appreciative colleagues in attendance.
On hand to help award the prizes was Carol David, EVP Human Resources and Industrial Relations, who reflected upon this year's Emancipation Day theme of resilience, to remind the audience of the importance of building the resilience of TSTT as an organisation.
"One of the most important things in building resilience is building relationships. It's important for us to be empathetic and to understand what is happening with us and to act accordingly," she told the audience.
Feature speaker, Makemba Kunle, expounded on the theme of resilience as it relates to African people.He said, "Courage is what is needed for resilience." He added, "Never say die, never give up, never blame God or nature."
Edmund-Hudson said of her win, "I feel very awesome. But for me it was not about winning but about having fun and I think that gave me the edge because I was not focused on winning. I was focused on having fun, enjoying what I was doing."
She added, "I think it is really, really admirable that TSTT has been doing this show for 21 years and the King and Queen competition is a really great addition." Edmund- Hudson joined the company last year October. "For me African culture is very powerful and has a lot of meaning."
Keron Richards, who portrayed a Zulu warrior from South Africa, won the Emancipation King title. Employed with TSTT as a customer sales representative for the past four years, he said, "It feels good to win."
First and second runners-up for the Emancipation Queen title were Tevynn Lewis and Hermese Ann Ambrose, respectively. Carlton Louison and Johnathan Bailey were first and second runners-up, respectively, for the Emancipation King title. Richards also took the prize for best-dressed male contestant and Ambrose for best-dressed female contestant.
The judges were Yvonne Popplewell, Derrek Casanova and Norma Clarke.The lively audience were also treated to performances by 3Canal and Wasafoli T&T.