Jenelle Thongs’ journey from feeling ugly to self-confidence has not been an easy one, but the support of her family and friends, and a determination not to let anyone make her feel less than she was, took her to becoming the 2024 Miss Universe representative for Trinidad and Tobago.
The 32-year-old practice manager at a dental clinic was also crowned Miss Congeniality at the competition in Mexico City, Mexico.
Thongs has wanted to represent Trinidad and Tobago at the Miss Universe pageant for about 14 years, since she started competing in pageants at age 18. Since then, she has participated in other local, regional and international pageants, including Miss Supranational 2021.
“I thought my dream of Miss Universe would have ended at least three years ago, because the age limit then was 28, and I aged out. So I thought that was that. But I never truly gave up on the dream.”
Last year, when the age limit was changed, she stopped volunteering at Crowns and Sashes Trinidad and Tobago as a manager because she wanted to compete. And this year she was selected to represent her country.
Thongs, who is still in Mexico, spoke to Newsday in a cellphone interview on November 21.
She said her three-week stay in Mexico City was beyond her wildest dreams and she made some great connections and friends.
She said whether or not she won the crown, her goal was to ensure her journey was a stepping stone for something greater for herself and other women.
“There has to be something more when you compete. And I'm happy to say that I left with that something more – being on that stage and saying, ‘Trinidad and Tobago.’
“But actually hearing the crowd go insane was something I never thought of, that I never thought would happen. My family was so surprised that they didn't have to even scream for me. The entire arena was going crazy.
“I'm just happy that I was able to break more stereotypes, shoot at glass ceilings, because being that level of confident does not come easy, but it was able to do it.”
[caption id="attachment_1122470" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Jenelle Thongs, the 2024 Miss Universe representative for TT. - Photo courtesy Crowns and Sashes TT[/caption]
She said the outcome may not have been what people wanted, but she was proud of her representation and hoped Trinidad and Tobago was as well.
“I know, for everyone, I may not be their cup of tea – but I prefer to be coffee on some days, so that's okay.”
But while she was representing Trinidad and Tobago at the pageant, many on social media criticised Thongs for her size and style. Addressing the criticism and some of the hateful comments, Thongs posted a short video response on her social media.
“I’m so sorry to disappoint the haters. I’m so sorry to disappoint the ones who have negative things to say about me. I will always be that girl...I just cannot think of myself small, and if my confidence bothers you, I’m so sorry.
“I did what needed to be done. And that was be my authentic and best self and leave it all on the stage, and that's w
