Dominica Crowned MISS OECS 2026
OECS PRESS RELEASE
After an evening of powerful performances and cultural expression, Tanisha Balson, representing Dominica, was crowned MISS OECS 2026 at Windsor Park in Roseau, Dominica.
Held on Friday, January 30, the Pageant celebrated the theme “Crowning Radiance, Embracing Unity,” bringing together contestants from Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in a showcase of elegance, intelligence, and regional pride.
The contestants impressed audiences and judges through a series of segments, including creative national wear, talent presentations, interviews, and evening wear.
Tanisha Balson distinguished herself through exceptional poise and commanding stage presence. Throughout the night, she captured the awards for Best Creative National Wear, Best Performing Talent, and Best Evening Wear. Her performance ultimately earned her the prestigious title of Miss OECS 2026 and the esteemed role of Regional Ambassador for the OECS.
Upon her crowning, Tanisha Balson shared her vision for her reign:
"I plan to continue advocating for holistic development through the arts. I believe artistic education is vital for personal growth and discovering new talents. By nurturing these skills early on, we create real career opportunities for our youth across the region."
Joining Tanisha Balson on the podium were:
- First Runner-Up: Kia Kirwan – Miss Antigua and Barbuda
- Ms. Kirwan’s elegance and charisma earned her the titles of Miss Amity, Best in Swimwear, and Best Evening Wear.
- Second Runner-Up: Ariel Bushay – Miss Anguilla
- Ms. Bushay delivered a standout performance, capturing the titles for Best Promotional Video, Best Swimwear, and Best Response to Question.
The OECS Commission congratulates all contestants for their dedication and professionalism throughout the Pageant week. Their participation reflected the strength, diversity, and unity of the OECS region.
The success of this production was made possible by the unwavering support of the Miss OECS Pageant 2026's sponsors: OECS PEARL Dominica, Division of Culture, AID Bank, National Bank of Dominica, Big Edge Financing, Kairi FM, Fine Foods Inc., Rapid Response Recovery, Bulls Eye Pharmacy, Grippa’s Construction, Flow Dominica, Sunrise Airways, and the Discover Dominica Authority.
Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS Commission, shared his congratulations:
“At the heart of regional integration is the spirit of the people. Through ‘Crowning Radiance, Embracing Unity,’ these young women have shown us that our cultural diversity is our greatest strength. We are proud to support an initiative that fosters such deep bonds across our OECS islands. We congratulate Tanisha Balson and her fellow contestants for being such radiant ambassadors of our collective Caribbean identity.”
The OECS Commission joins the region in celebrating the successful execution of the event by the Miss OECS Pageant Committee (Dominica) and looks forward to a year of impactful advocacy led by the new Queen.
Media contact
Mérédith Ulysse
OECS Communications Unit