In a powerful demonstration of purpose-driven pageantry, the delegates vying for the National Carnival Queen traded makeup brushes for shovels during a tree planting exercise held on Friday, 13 June 2025 at the official residence of the Prime Minister.

Held just days ahead of the United Nations World Day to Combat Desertification on June 17, the initiative was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Rural Development with several trees such as sugar apples and cherry trees, among those planted.  The tree planting initiative reinforces the urgent need for land preservation, tree restoration, and climate resilience, all critical to Saint Lucia’s sustainability agenda.

Sustainability is also a core area of focus for Lucian Carnival and this initiative positions the National Carnival Queen Pageant as a platform for social consciousness and environmental responsibility. It highlights the evolving role of pageantry in Saint Lucia not merely as a celebration of grace and intellect, but as a catalyst for positive action and national development. The national carnival queen delegates are not only cultural ambassadors but also agents of change, championing social and environmental causes.

The seven delegates of this year’s pageant were joined for the initiative by the reigning Carnival Queen, Shan Lucien, Minister for Tourism, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture and Information, Honourable Dr. Ernest Hilaire, Chairperson of the Carnival Planning and Management Committee, Ms. Tamara Gibson, Chief Forest Officer, Mr. Alwin Dornelly, and team members from the Department of Forestry, and the CPMC.

As Lucian Carnival 2025 unfolds under the banner of inclusivity, sustainability, cultural preservation, and responsible enjoyment, initiatives like these reaffirm the CPMC’s commitment to shaping a festival, and a future, that truly reflects the soul of the nation.

The 2025 National Carnival Queen Pageant will be held on Saturday, July 05, at the Pavillion on Rodney Bay.  Persons interested in learning more are encouraged to visit www.carnivalsaintlucia.com.