Debutante Presentation and Ball celebrates 13 young women
Special to the Outlook
Thirteen young ladies entered society during the 54th Annual Debutante Presentation and Ball hosted by the Leon County Chapter of The Charmettes, Incorporated.
Held at the Dunlap Champions Club, the signature event is a time-honored tradition that allows family, friends, and the community to celebrate each Debutante’s ability to excel in academics, sports, extra-curricular activities, leadership, and community service.
The black-tie affair was a magical evening as it continues to be one of the most sought-after events of the social calendar. Master of Ceremonies Darryl Jones, a Leon County School Board member, introduced each debutante with his unique deft delivery and offered introductions of their proud parents, guardians, and escorts. The keynote speaker was Tallahassee attorney Daryl Parks.
Dressed in gorgeous white gowns, each young lady was escorted into a beautifully decorated ball room and presented with a bouquet of flowers.
During the event’s conclusion, the moment everyone awaited arrived, and the coveted Miss Debutante 2024 crown was passed to Miss Yahani Rose Hamlet, daughter of Jerome and Tammy Hamlet.
She is a junior, dual-enrolled student at Amos P. Godby High School and Tallahassee Community College. Hamlet was also crowned as Miss Junior Princess on the 2023 Homecoming Court. Some of her activities include the Student Government Association, Pearls of Perfection, National Achievers Society, National Honor Society, Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Tallahassee Chapter, and the Varsity Cheerleading Squad.
Hamlet plans to attend college and major in business and finance after graduating from high school. Her college choices include Spellman College, University of South Florida and University of Central Florida.
Hamlet is a member of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.
The other 2024 Debutantes are as follows:
First runner-up recipient of the Charles N. Stevens Award – Erin Nacole Hinson
Second runner-up recipient of the Lillian R. Oglesby Award – Azsa E’nya-Rose Burns
Third runner-up recipient of the Gertha Redman Award – Allora Kadette Jones
Miss Personality – Kenedi Elise Lowe
Miss Congeniality – Kennedy RoseMarie Cornileus
Miss Poise – Kaitlyn Lusette Cruz
Amaya Adderson
Nyla Charles
Haniah Edwards
Maliya Oliver
Kamia Wiley
Somara Williams
The Debutante Ball and Presentation is a culmination of several months, where each young lady attends events, activities, and workshops that included etiquette, beauty, safety, and human trafficking.
Each Debutante has an opportunity to receive a scholarship. This year, Leon County Chapter of The Charmettes, Incorporated distributed more than $13,000 in scholarships.
The Debutante Ball and Presentation received sponsorship support from Walmart, a Founders’ Sponsor, and our Red and White Sponsors: Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, The Bold Creations, Cathy Johnson, Gadsden County School Board Member, Cee Jay’s Group Home, Figgers Communications Inc., FAMU, and TKS Colony One.
