Finalist No: 2  -  Ashlea Smith  -  27 Years 

Representing: Cayman Islands

Occupation: Head of Delivery at Living Sport (Sports Charity)

Charity: The Perfect Day Foundation

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashlea.jade_/

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Ashlea is an ambitious, inclusive and caring young woman who believes that a positive mindset, kindness and learning from others is the key to happiness and continuous growth.

 

Being a Cayman Islands born, UK based, woman of mixed heritage who is always up for a new challenge, Ashlea entered the pageant to make a deeper connection with her Caribbean roots. Whilst she enjoys annually celebrating her heritage through her Caribbean Carnival performances with ‘Spice Queen Productions’ showcasing the vibrant colours, uplifting music and feel-good dancing of the Caribbean, Ashlea wanted the opportunity to embrace her culture even more! 

  

Ashlea developed her passion for sport from a young age and begun playing national league basketball in her teens. Her involvement in sport, both as participant and leader has given her a sense of belonging, provided her with lifelong friends, and supported her well-being and personal development through her adolescent to adult life. Ashlea aims to use her platform to advocate the benefits of physical activity that she’s experienced first-hand to encourage more people to be active, allowing them to thrive and unleash the best version of themselves.

 

When obtaining her degree in Sports Management at Loughborough University Ashlea volunteered her time supporting initiatives in Zambia using sport as a tool to create social impact and improve the lives of disadvantaged young people. This experience led to Ashlea returning to Zambia on multiple occasions, and taught her the importance of giving and to never underestimate the ability to make someone smile!

 

Since being selected as a 2020 finalist Ashlea has continued to support the same Zambian communities by raising over £1,500 for her chosen charity ‘The Perfect Day Foundation’ supporting young Netball players to create a more sustainable way of life. In order to raise funds Ashlea has helped women remain active during the COVID-19 lockdown by delivering online fundraiser fitness classes, and entertained others by coordinating a ‘Question of Sport’ online quiz hosted by elite Netball star of Caribbean descent, Jodie Gibson, which included a dedicated round celebrating Caribbean athletes.

 

As your Miss Caribbean UK 2020 Ashlea will continue to inspire and educate young people by delivering workshops in schools and with youth groups both in the UK, and within the Caribbean. She will support POC women like her, via her co-founded podcast ‘Melanin and me’ through discussions on health, well-being and lifestyle. Ashlea will also dedicate her time volunteering in the community to raise funds for ‘Sport for Development’ charities and continue using her platform to positively promote the Caribbean in the UK.