For the third consecutive year, a graduating senior from the Virgin Islands was granted a prom experience of any girl’s wildest dream. Pampering, primping, hair styling, makeup, manicure and photo shoot were all provided to the winner of the 2017 Glass Slipper Project. The Belle of the Program is an initiative made possible by Aniska Tonge and Taiesa Lashley, who worked diligently with sponsors to make the winner’s prom experience a magical one.
This was the first year that the experience was open to students on St. Croix, but no applications were received from students on St. Croix. Out of 12 applications submitted from the St. Thomas-St. John District, Jenicia Jackson was selected as this year’s “belle.” Her impressive essay, her dedication to her studies and her involvement in extracurricular activities made Jackson stood out as a well-rounded candidate. Her willingness to serve her community through service and her drive towards success resonated with Tonge and Lashley.
Jackson, a graduating senior at Ivana Eudora Kean High School, was provided a dress and accessories sponsored by CHIC Lifestyle Collection LLC. She was then dolled up by returning sponsors and manicurist Kishma Faulkner, styled by hairdresser Deidra Hendrickson and makeup artist Marisel Melendez.
For the third year in a row, Bolongo Bay Beach Resort provided a suite for prom day preparation, where Jackson was treated to an afternoon of relaxation. After she was dressed, returning sponsor Cliff Franklin of Precious Moments Photography took stunning photos of her, and then she was whisked away in a town car provided by three-time sponsor Presidential Limousine Service of the VI.
The 4 Her Foundation aims to navigate young women through life by providing the tools necessary for positive progression — academically, socially and personally. The foundation provides as many outlets as possible to assist young women in growing into strong, smart and savvy leaders, teachers, educators and entrepreneurs — from scholarships to community service. Anyone interested in assisting in any future projects, please e-mail founder Aniska Tonge at weare4her@hotmail.com.
For information on the Virgin Islands Pageantry’s mission, visit the official FaceBook page at www.facebook.com/VirginIslandsPageantry to keep up with projects and royal ambassadors. If interested in assisting with any projects, e-mail Taiesa Lashley at vipagenatry@hotmail.com.
