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On the latest Stories to Create Podcast episode, Cornell Bunting interviews Mrs. Annieka Francis, the newly crowned Mrs. Universe Jamaica 2024. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Annieka grew up in Coreville Garden, where she fondly recalls attending her father's cricket matches and meeting the legendary Brian Lara, who played alongside her dad. As a child in Jamaica, she was known for her creativity, often participating in games like Punchinella. Her life took a significant turn when she moved to Canada at the age of 11 in the early 1990s, where she faced the harsh realities of racism and had to quickly adapt to her new environment with the guidance of her mother.

Overcoming these challenges, Annieka entered the workforce at 18 years old, driven by her belief that whatever she conceives, she can achieve. During the podcast, she shares her experiences of participating in the Mrs. Universe Jamaica pageant, highlighting the surprising camaraderie among the contestants and the lack of cattiness she had expected. Annieka reflects on her journey from adversity to triumph, becoming the first in her family to graduate from college and walk the stage. She recounts how her family in Canada proudly watched the competition live, and how her evening gown won the appreciation of the store owner who provided it.

Annieka is deeply involved in outreach work in Canada and has plans to extend her philanthropic efforts to support youth in Jamaica. She discusses the importance of empowering young people across the island and her preparations for the upcoming Mrs. Universe competition in South Korea, including the sponsorships needed to make it possible. Throughout the conversation, Annieka offers valuable advice for young people uncertain about their purpose, emphasizing the power of creating a vision board, speaking goals into existence, and embracing life's journey. She also shares her experience filming her enjoyment of Jamaica before returning to Canada. Tune in to hear the full story of how this inspiring narrative was crafted.

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