Pageant Platform Queen: Sheniqua Robinson Miss Virgin Islands 2010

My next queen is as strong as pageant queens probably come. He persistence and determination have been such an inspiration to me. I distinctly remember my first phone call with her. She told me get those tears out and toughen up because this journey would take so much out of me, but if I were smart enough I could see it for what it's worth. She made sure to tell me that I'll be working hard for one thing, but I should not forget the many things I will gain from my experience in Las Vegas. She is definitely the queen that "knocked" the tough into me instantly. She has also proven that pageantry not only builds confidence but strength superior many. So Here She is, my Miss Virgin Islands and Miss America sister Sheniqua Robinson!

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Sheniqua Robinson and I am a 25 year old senior at the University of the Virgin Islands, majoring in Communications. I’ve been dancing since the age of three which inspired me to promote “Dance: A Movement Towards Better Health” as my platform at the 2011 Miss America Pageant. I was crowned Miss St. Croix Festival Queen 2008-2009, which gave me the opportunity to compete throughout the Caribbean both in Nevis (Miss Caribbean Culture) and Antigua (Miss Jaycees Caribbean Queen). I was also crowned Miss Virgin Islands in 2010 and had the AMAZING privilege to be a part of Miss America’s 90^th anniversary pageant in 2011. Besides all the pageant stuff, I simply enjoy playing basketball, softball and volleyball.

Why did you compete for the Miss Virgin Islands title?

I competed for the Miss Virgin Islands title for the opportunity to represent the VI at the Miss America Pageant and also in order to assist with the furthering of my education, being that Miss Virgin Islands is a scholarship pageant. 

How did you prepare for the local pageant? What did you do  to prepare for the Miss America pageant?

 I honestly didn’t prepare much for the on-stage portion of the local pageant. I was more focused on the interview aspect of the competition. I watched the news every evening, kept up with current events and made sure I knew every aspect of my platform. That evening, I walked away with Miss Intellect, Best Swimwear, and Best Talent along with the title. In preparation for Miss America, I practically did the same things but I focused a lot more on my talent (dance). I made several adjustments to my dance routine and continued to keep up with world-wide events. 

What has been your most memorable experience?

I have two of them. My first memorable experience is being a guest speaker at several schools while promoting my platform. The most unforgettable and fun part about that is when I’m walking down the street, some of the students still tend to scream out my name and tell their parents about my visit to their schools. That gets me every time! My second memorable experience would definitely have to be being a part of Miss America’s 90^th Anniversary Pageant. The experience on a whole was remarkable but our “class” got a lot of extra perks for being an anniversary year! That experience is unforgettable.  

Has pageantry assisted you in accomplishing any professional or personal goals? How has it done so/ not done so?

Definitely!!!! Pageantry has enabled me to find my calling as a Communications Major. Originally, I was studying to become a pharmacist, but my heart wasn’t in it. After speaking at so many events and schools, it dawned on me that that’s something I do easily and naturally; therefore, I decided to change my major to reflect just that. Pageantry has opened many opportunities for me, for instance, I was asked earlier this year to be the keynote speaker at a graduation as “Miss VI 2010.” I agreed and attended the event. After I delivered my address, I was approached by the President of a major company here in the Virgin Islands. She told me she wanted me to be a part of the company because she saw something in me. She loved the way I delivered my speech and my personality. Today, I’m currently working with the company with hopes of climbing the corporate ladder after receiving my degree. Thanks to “pageantry” and being a guest speaker at that event, doors are opened for me in my career field.

What is next for you?

I don’t know what the future holds for me, but I do know that I’m ambitious and it’s going to be great things. I’m heavily focused on school right now and after receiving my degree in Communications, I immediately plan to pursue my Masters.