A former Miss Universe Jamaica contestant has died, the organization announced on Instagram on July 18.
LaToya Malcolm, 35, competed in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica pageant and later went on to hold the 2024 Miss Jamaica Bikini International title.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Miss Universe Jamaica alumna LaToya Malcolm, who proudly competed in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica Competition,” the Miss Universe Jamaica organization wrote in its statement.
Our heartfelt condolences are with her family, friends, and loved ones. Rest peacefully, LaToya. You will never be forgotten.”
According to the Miss Universe Jamaica Instagram account, Malcolm was a Jamaican-based actor and entertainer with over a decade of experience in the entertainment industry.
According to a clipping of an article written in the Jamaica Observer, Malcolm was also a dance instructor. In 2024, she took home the title of Miss Jamaica Bikini International, telling the outlet how, despite the death of her father earlier that year, she was able to persevere in her training and take home the crown.
“My beloved father, Mr. Malcolm, this win was for you. Your one and only daughter continues to make you proud. I know you’re smiling down on me from heaven 🕊️💙,” she wrote in an Instagram post celebrating her win at the time.
Malcolm was also known for her work with the Transition project, which was aimed at providing training and resources for adolescents to navigate new opportunities successfully.
Well-wishers offered their support in the comment section of the Miss Universe Jamaica organization’s post, expressing their sadness at the news.
The current Miss Universe Jamaica titleholder Gabrielle Henry, who made headlines last year after her highly televised fall from the competition stage at the Miss Universe pageant in Thailand, took to her own Instagram stories to express her condolences as well.
“After many years of experiencing loss and hardship, I’ve learnt the deep relevance of pausing and reflecting on the lives of those who lived fully, unapologetically and with great passion. To hear of Laloya’s passing is a great loss to her family and the wider community, Jamaica, her impact will always be remembered and her voice will not be forgotten. Wishing her family my deepest condolences. May she rest in peace.”
“She was such a wonderful person,” one commenter wrote. “When I met and worked with her in 2024, she was a breath of fresh air. Even though she was grieving her dad’s passing at the time, she pushed through the Miss Universe competition. Rest In Sweet Peace Latty 😭.”
“She was so full of light, always joyful. I’m still struggling to comprehend how this could even be possible. My condolences to her family and friends 🕊️,” wrote another.