After not placing in last year’s Miss Talented Teen competition, Denayja Cognette returned this year with a stronger mindset, greater confidence and a determination to give her best.
Along the way, she discovered the values of resilience, self-belief, patience and faith – and went on to win the coveted 2026 title.
In this Q&A, she tells Anguilla Focus what the experience taught her and why she hopes her journey will encourage others to keep going and believe in themselves, whatever challenges they face.
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What first attracted you to the Miss Talented Teen competition?
My pageant sister at the time, Carjèneé, who is also my best friend, participated in the show in 2024. Watching her grace the stage with confidence and passion deeply inspired me.
Her journey showed me the power of determination and self-belief, sparking a fire within me to pursue this path as well. I’m motivated by her example to embrace the challenge and shine just as brightly.
What did you enjoy most about taking part in the competition last year?
I truly enjoyed meeting new people and discovering more about myself along the way.
This experience taught me valuable lessons on how to navigate different situations with confidence and grace as I grow into an upcoming young adult.
It’s been a meaningful journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
How did you feel when you did not place in last year’s competition?
Although I was naturally a bit disappointed and felt down about the results, I refused to let that moment define me or hold me back.
Instead, it sparked a renewed sense of determination and motivation within me to learn from the experience, grow stronger and work even harder to achieve greater success in the future.
This drive has become a powerful force pushing me forward on my journey.
What made you decide to return and compete again this year?
Knowing that I didn’t give my personal best the previous year, I was determined to make the most of the second chance I was given to re-enter.
I understood deeply that every moment mattered and that I couldn’t afford to take anything for granted.
With unwavering determination as my driving force, I embraced the journey fully, trusting in the faith God had placed in my heart.
This faith gave me strength and confidence to face challenges head-on, pushing me to grow, improve, and strive for excellence in every step I took.
What did you hope to improve or do differently this time around?
I think the biggest difference between last year and this year is my mindset. Last year, I was still learning a lot about myself and about pageantry, and I think I put a lot of pressure on myself to get everything perfect.
This year, I came in more focused, more confident, and more intentional. I listened more to my team, I prepared more seriously, and I really worked on understanding who I am and what I wanted to bring to the stage.
Most importantly, I put God first. I trusted his hand over the entire journey and leaned more on my faith instead of fear.
I prayed more, trusted the process and reminded myself that whatever happened, I wanted to walk away knowing that I gave my best and allowed God to guide me.
What did winning the title mean to you, particularly after returning to compete for a second time?
It showed me that I could do anything I put my mind to, and that the difference between giving up and being successful might just be one more try.
It also means taking on the responsibility of being a mentor to the young people of Anguilla and leading by example through my actions and determination.
What have you learned about yourself through your experiences with the pageant?
I’ve learned how to pivot situations that may not have gone the way I wanted, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.
I’ve also learned to handle every situation with grace and confidence, staying calm and focused even when things get tough.
This journey has taught me resilience, patience, and the power of a positive mindset, showing me that with the right attitude, I can overcome obstacles and inspire others to do the same.
