University student and business executive win Mister and Mister Teen Universe International Jamaica titles

University student Rahiem Edwards and entrepreneur Rajae’ Graham have been crowned Mister Teen Universe International Jamaica and Mister Universe International Jamaica for 2026, respectively. The winners were announced early Monday morning after three months of training and preparation at the St Patrick’s Primary School in Waterhouse.

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This definitely feels amazing. I have always known myself to be someone who has the ability to win. And to be able to walk away tonight as the winner is a great feeling, especially knowing all the hard work that I put into it, it’s just wonderful.

Edwards, a 21-year-old University of the West Indies student studying Banking and Finance, secured the Teen division title. Graham, a 26-year-old entrepreneur and business executive, won the Mister title. Both will now represent Jamaica at the upcoming international competitions in Panama.

"This definitely feels amazing. I have always known myself to be someone who has the ability to win," Edwards told Observer Online. "And to be able to walk away tonight as the winner is a great feeling, especially knowing all the hard work that I put into it, it’s just wonderful." He highlighted the crucial role of community support, stating, "I took away the importance of having a community. My friends were the backbone of this entire process and I really appreciate it. I have come to the realisation that having a community is important in personal growth."

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I took away the importance of having a community. My friends were the backbone of this entire process and I really appreciate it. I have come to the realisation that having a community is important in personal growth.

Graham, who lives by the mantra of surpassing perceived limitations, shared his personal journey. "I think I surpassed my limitations because I was never good at public speaking and this competition helped me to overcome that fear. I hope that this platform that I have gotten tonight, I’ll be able to have some impact on the young men of Jamaica," he said. Graham also reflected on the rewards of self-belief and perseverance, noting that he wore the same suit he had for seven years, which he also wore to his university graduation and another competition.

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I think I surpassed my limitations because I was never good at public speaking and this competition helped me to overcome that fear. I hope that this platform that I have gotten tonight, I’ll be able to have some impact on the young men of Jamaica.

The coronation show featured 10 contestants competing in opening numbers, swimwear, and evening wear segments. Entertainment was provided by singer Tai C, son of reggae artiste Valton ‘VC’ Craigie. The judges faced a challenging task in selecting the winners from the competitive field.

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This reaffirms the belief of believing in yourself and putting your best foot forward at all times. This suit that I am wearing tonight, I have had it for seven years. I wore it to my graduation and I wore it when I participated in Mr Irvinia at the University of the West Indies. And tonight, it has served me well.