WHAT'S ON

Renee ‘Buttaz’ Edwards describes herself as an unconventional, non-traditional over-achiever. The certified commercial and private pilot, aircraft engineer and drag racer is the 2013 representative for Antigua and Barbuda at this year’s Miss Plus Caribbean Universe Pageant. The pageant, only in its second year, will be hosted in Trinidad in November, and will be Renee’s first time on the pageant stage.

Photos by Brass Angel Photography

Renee began her educational journey at the Antigua Girls’ High School, and then went on to the Engineering department at the Antigua State College where she attained a Diploma in Automotive Engineering. She later attended the Centennial College, in Toronto Canada, where she attained her Private and Commercial Pilot License in the Professional Pilot Programme. The last leg of her studies led her to the Art Williams and Harry Wendt Aeronautical Engineering School in Georgetown Guyana, where she studied Aircraft Maintenance and Engineering and attained her Guyana Civil Aviation Engineering License. Renee is currently employed at LIAT 1974 Ltd as an Aircraft Mechanic. Renee also currently represents Antigua and Barbuda in Nevis at drag racing events put on by the Drag Racing Unit within the Ministry of Social Development in Nevis.

The Miss Plus Caribbean Universe Pageant uses its platform to challenge the beauty stereotypes that society projects on women. The aim of the organisation is to empower plus size women by unearthing the confidence, motivation and enthusiasm needed to impact their lives and those around them positively. Over twelve (12) different countries including USA, Anguilla, Brazil, Barbados and host country Trinidad, will be represented on the night of the pageant. Participants will compete in five (5) segments: National Costume, Performing Talent, Swim Suit, Evening Gown and Interview.

In her promotional video posted on YouTube, Renee proudly asserts, “I've never followed the stereotypical roles society has attempted to assign to me. Say to me that I cannot do it, and then watch me climb the mountain and claim it as my own.”

A bubbly smile mixed with an infectious personality, Renee isn’t about breaking rules, but rather setting her own. The Antigua & Barbuda representative to the pageant is presently being sponsored by Brass.Angel.Enterprises, BGRmag (www.blackgirlinthering.com), Super Power Electronics and Beauty Supplies, London’s J’adore Clothing Store, The District and Signs Plus. Renee’s evening wear will be sponsored by Oshalara’s Bridal, while her swimwear and national costume will be designed and created by Solid International Mas Troupe and Bridgette ‘Queen B’ Richardson. Her trainer is Jennaecia Lewis.

The Miss Plus Caribbean Universe pageant will be hosted at the Cascadia Hotel & Conference Center in St. Ann’s, Trinidad on Sunday 10th November at 7pm. Exclusive broadcast of the show will be aired on Comeseetv.com and CMC Caribbean Media.