Born on October 16th 1983, to Gordon and Cathy St. Hillaire- Yorke, I was christened Melissa Alva Yorke. I grew up in a large extended family and was heavily influenced by my female relatives who stressed the importance of being an educated and weIl-rounded young woman who was involved in her community.
I began my education at the Kingstown Anglican School where I was a member of the school's Brownie Pack. After successfully writing the Common Entrance Exam I went on the Intermediate High School and it was there that I developed a passion for the arts. I became a member of the school's choir and drama group, which aIlowed me to express myself and develop my self-confidence. In secondary school I was also a Prefect and Vice President of the school's Young Leaders Group. I also represented the Intermediate High School at several debating and essay competitions. Most importantly it was while I was In secondary school that I become involved with dance. My packed timetable In secondary school meant that I had to become proficient at multi-tasking as I learnt how to manage my time so that I could combine my studies with my extra curricular activities.
During my final year at the Intermediate High School I entered and won the Miss SVG Talented Teen winning all the categories in that competition. I then went on to represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines at Miss Caribbean Talented Teen in St. Kitts.
After graduating from the Intermediate High School I migrated to the USA to live with my mother and further my education. I attended the George W. Wingate High School, graduating with honours, and then went on the State University of New York at Platsburgh to pursue a degree in Marketing.
At university my love of dance intensified and a group of friends and I formed Jedi Dance Productions. I was elected President and was also the group's choreographer. While at university I was once again involved in many activities including being a Student Association Senator, a Resident Assistant, an employee of the university and a board member of several organizations on campus. The multi-tasking skills I developed while at the Intermediate High School, really paid off because I was able to participate in all of these activities while maintaining a 3.0 grade point average.
While at university I also decided to enter the Miss P.S.U. Caribbean Pageant. I was the first runner-up and I am especially proud of winning the Ambassadorial Speech category.
I stand strong with my mother's example as my guide. She has sacrificed a lot to afford me the opportunities that I have had. She has taught me that without hard work there can be no success and that with that drive and God by my side I can achieve any and every thing that I put my mind to.
My dream has always been to enter the Miss SVG Pageant. I am confident that this is going to be a great opportunity for me.
