Former Miss Universe Jamaica, Kaci Fennell will make her big apple debut this week for two major Caribbean events in New York City — one of the largest Caribbean music events, and the West Indian American Day Carnival on Labor Day.
The pageant beauty will co-host “On Da Reggae and Soca Tip,” the annual music event showcasing the best artists from the Caribbean, and will also represent the soda brand Ting, as the Face of Jamaica, at the West Indian American Day Carnival. The soda brand has chosen the beauty, who has been its ambassador for two years, to represent the country and she is thrilled to be a part of the events.
“I will be having a good time,” said Kaci Fennell, Miss Jamaica Universe 2014.
“This will be my first time at the West Indian American Day parade, as well as “On Da Reggae and Soca Tip” — I’m very excited. I’ve been to New York many times, and I know we have a vicious group of Jamaicans.”
Fennell will co-host “On Da Reggae and Soca Tip,” and is mostly thrilled seeing her favorite artists perform, while also being a source of nostalgia for Jamaicans living in New York.
“It’s so delightful to see expressions,” said Fennell. “Just the feeling and the vibe and to know they can see a piece of home all the way in the U.S. — it’s just so delightful to see their expressions.”
Popular artists such as Bunji Garlin, Shaggy, Mr. Vegas, Tantro Metro and Devonte, Allison Hinds, and many more are scheduled to perform at the event. Fennell said she was looking forward to all the live performances, particularly Shaggy’s.
“Shaggy is one of my favorite performers because he always loves to interact with the crowd,” said Fennell. “But I’m excited for everyone. I’m a soca and reggae junkie so it’s a perfect combination for myself and the festival.”
And with Jamaica’s increased sense of pride fresh off of the Olympics, Fennell feels the events will continue those celebrations and certify a more enjoyable concert and parade.
“This is a celebration for us after the Olympics,” said Fennell. “We had Bolt, we had Elaine — we just did fantastic. I can’t wait to be there and hear songs like ‘Champion.”
Fennell will host the event on Friday, and the following Monday will get ready to spend all day at the parade, serving samples of Ting.
“On Da Reggae and Soca Tip” at Governors Island, www.gover
“West Indian Day Parade” (Eastern Parkway between Utica Avenue and Grand Army Plaza in Crown Heights, www.wiadc
