MON REPOS, EAST COAST DEMERARA — Charlize Hernandez and Simon Brusch were crowned Miss and Mr. Sown to Shine 2026 at the inaugural Mr. and Miss Sown to Shine Agriculture Pageant, hosted by the Student Council of the Guyana School of Agriculture. The event took place on June 19 at the Guyana School of Agriculture campus and was designed to promote agriculture among young Guyanese through a competitive format that included both male and female contestants.
In the female category, Charlize Hernandez earned the title of Miss Sown to Shine 2026, while Ashanti Braithwaite was named First Runner-Up and Jinevia Rollins secured the position of Second Runner-Up. In the male category, Simon Brusch was crowned Mr. Sown to Shine 2026, with Okemmy Pestano being named Runner-Up.
After his crowning, Brusch expressed that the title represents more than just winning a competition. He stated, “Being crowned Mr. Sown to Shine 2026 is more than just winning a title. It is a symbol of dedication, confidence, and perseverance. This achievement has given me the opportunity to represent my class with pride, meet new people, and create lasting memories. It has also provided me with a platform to inspire others — especially young people — to believe in themselves and pursue their goals.” He emphasized the importance of hard work and determination in achieving success.
Hernandez shared her reflections on the pageant journey, noting that it has significantly contributed to her personal growth. She remarked, “Participating in Miss Sown to Shine has been a truly enriching experience that has contributed greatly to my personal growth. Through this journey, I have developed a stronger sense of discipline and a deeper appreciation for respect in both my actions and interactions with others.” She also mentioned that the experience has motivated her to remain committed and focused on her goals.
The highlight of the evening was the Creative Wear Segment, where contestants showcased elaborate costumes representing various sectors of Guyana’s agricultural industry. Participants represented areas such as aquaculture, apiculture, horticulture, forestry, fruit and vegetable production, and hydrometeorology, explaining the significance of their chosen sector to the audience while accompanied by local soca music. This segment combined performance, education, and spectacle, bringing agriculture to life through creativity and culture.
The pageant also featured Introduction, Talent, Evening Wear, and Question and Answer segments, with scores across all categories determining the final results. The Student Council initiated the pageant to enhance the visibility and appeal of agriculture to young Guyanese. The newly crowned Mr. and Miss Sown to Shine will act as youth ambassadors for the agricultural sector over the next year.
Source: hgptv.com
