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Kegan K. Brookes captures VI child model of the year title

13th Annual Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition Held on April 11 in St. Croix
Kegan K. Brookes of the Virgin Islands has captured the title of 2026 Virgin Islands Child Model of the Year. Photo: VINO
Kegan K. Brookes received the VI Child Model of the Year award, while Jeniqua Weekes of St. Croix was named the VI Commercial Model of the Year and Flax-Charles secured the esteemed 2026–2027 VI Model of the Year title. Photo: Facebook
Kegan K. Brookes received the VI Child Model of the Year award, while Jeniqua Weekes of St. Croix was named the VI Commercial Model of the Year and Flax-Charles secured the esteemed 2026–2027 VI Model of the Year title. Photo: Facebook
CHRISTIANSTED, St. Croix, USVI—Kegan K. Brookes of the Virgin Islands has captured the title of 2026 Virgin Islands Child Model of the Year.

Kegan K. Brookes and Mystiq Flax-Charles from the Virgin Islands were crowned winners at the 13th Annual Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition, held on April 11 at the Sidney Lee Events Center in St. Croix. 

Brookes received the VI Child Model of the Year award, while Flax-Charles secured the esteemed 2026–2027 VI Model of the Year title, and Jeniqua Weekes of St. Croix was named the VI Commercial Model of the Year.

The competition was organised by JG Management under Jason Gardener as part of St. Croix Style Fashion Week and brought together contestants from across the Virgin Islands for runway presentations, judging, and professional exposure.

‘Achievement is truly a blessing’ 

Speaking to our news centre, Kegan K. Brookes’ mother, Kasmah M. DaBreo, expressed, “We are extremely proud and grateful for Kegan’s achievement. Being crowned VI Child Model of the Year at the 13th Annual Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition on April 11 is truly a blessing and a reflection of Kegan’s hard work, dedication, and passion.”

She described the journey as an “incredible experience” for him, adding that “from the Kids Rock Fashion Show to this major milestone, Kegan has grown in confidence, discipline, and love for the industry. He is a determined and multi-talented child who continues to inspire those around him with his enthusiasm and positive spirit.”

In addition to modelling, Kegan has a passion for trucks and heavy equipment. At just 9 years old, he operates heavy machinery and drives large trucks.

DaBreo also expressed her gratitude to the organisers and those who have supported Kegan along the way, stating, “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the organisers, mentors, and everyone who has journeyed alongside him. This accomplishment means a lot to our family, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for him.”

6 category wins

Kegan won in six categories: Commercial & Fashion Print, Jeans, High-End Fashion, Social Media, Swimwear, and TV Commercial.

Kegan, who is still in St. Croix with his father, Kunta Brookes, will be returning home today, Monday, April 13. 

12 Responses to “Kegan K. Brookes captures VI child model of the year title”

  • bvibuzz (13/04/2026, 10:20) Like (7) Dislike (0) Reply
    well done young man
  • bvi (13/04/2026, 10:33) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    Super proud of you little Trucker.
  • Citizen (13/04/2026, 11:39) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    that kid is so talented, keep up the good work
  • What?? (13/04/2026, 12:28) Like (7) Dislike (5) Reply
    "At just 9 years old, he operates heavy machinery and drives large trucks....."
    • Slim Jim (13/04/2026, 21:17) Like (12) Dislike (5) Reply
      Am unsure whether Liking or Disliking the comment states my opinion, so I will just say it.... parents should use common sense, and find age appropriate ways to teach young people without putting themselves or others in dangerous situations. As talented and ambitious as this child is, he is still a child and not legally, mentally or physically ready to operate heavy equipment and machinery.

      Where are the (sensible) adults in the room?
      • rubbish (14/04/2026, 09:48) Like (4) Dislike (16) Reply
        He’s not operating or driving on the public road. How is he suppose to learn….arent we to teach our children from young? Your comment is nothing but pure jealousy.
  • NONESENSE (13/04/2026, 13:42) Like (13) Dislike (17) Reply
    Im nit favor of this. No young male should take oart in modeling
  • My son can (14/04/2026, 13:07) Like (5) Dislike (2) Reply
    Ask keegan to spell transportation and he cant
  • WEIRDOss (14/04/2026, 15:08) Like (4) Dislike (2) Reply
    Why does a 9-year-old modeling bother GROWN adults?? Ya'll need to let the kids express themselves!! I personally prefer children to express themselves when they are young and see that there are other options in life other than the fast life that drives them into the grave faster than anything else.
  • Bwoi (14/04/2026, 15:55) Like (2) Dislike (2) Reply
    What a ting to be proud of thesr days. Smdh
  • do better (15/04/2026, 09:57) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
    If this were a child out here selling drugs, you would have no problem speaking up, right? If he were in trouble, you would talk, right? So why is it so hard to speak life into a child who is clearly talented and striving for something positive?

    This is a very talented young boy, and he deserves recognition, encouragement, and high praise not negativity disguised as concern. We need to do better at uplifting our young people so they have something meaningful to work towards in life.

    If you truly have concerns, there are ways to express them constructively. However, if you have nothing positive to add, then maybe the best thing to do is simply not comment.

    Do you even realize how damaging negative remarks like this can be to a child? Words matter. Choose them wisely.


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