Jamaica’s history-making beauty queen Yendi Phillipps returned home yesterday to a rousing welcome from Prime Minister Bruce Golding, Jamaica Tourist
Board Chairman John Lynch, other dignitaries and excited staff at the
Sangster International Airport in this tourist resort city.

Phillipps, who placed second in this year’s Miss Universe pageant, the highest ever finish by a Jamaican in that contest, said she had no regrets about her response to a question about the death penalty
during the question and answer segment of the pageant held in Las Vegas
on Monday night.

Phillipps, who was accompanied on the flight by her boyfriend, Olympian and former 100 metres world record holder Asafa Powell, said she would be busy next year, as in addition to fulfilling her duties as
Miss Jamaica Universe she wants to start her own charity.

Of the time she spent in Las Vegas leading up to and during the pageant, she said her finest moment was the opening dance.

Phillipps expressed gratitude for the support she received from Jamaicans at home and abroad.

Some Jamaicans have argued that her response to the question factored negatively in the final outcome.She thanked former beauty queens Nicole Haughton, Angelie
Spencer and Kerri-Ann Clarke for their support, describing them as
“nothing short of amazing”, and was full of praise for her family who
she said was there for her when she needed support.

Check out the photos below!