Young people were the stars of the first ever Peeks Toronto Caribbean Carnival Junior King & Queen Showcase. The free family event which took place at Woodbine Centre Mall in Etobicoke showcased creative and colourful costumes that celebrated the spirit of Canada and Carnival.

The energy and enthusiasm of the young people and audience was unbelievable,” said City Councillor for Etobicoke North, Micheal Ford who was on hand to help present the top prizes.”Events like these showcase the abilities of our young people who will build up carnival and our community for years to come.”

Other special guests included Hon. Minister of Science and MP for Etobicoke North Kirsty Duncan, mas band leaders, Mark Itwaru, CEO of new title sponsor Peeks Social and distinguished judges.

“Woodbine Shopping Centre was proud to host the Peeks Toronto Caribbean Carnival in Etobicoke for the first time said,” Michell Barker of Woodbine Mall. “We are delighted to act as a place for the entire community to gather, shop and celebrate!”

Awards were presented to:

Junior King: First place: Evan Murphy of Venom Carnival for ‘Centipede Bite’. Second place: Amari Balroop of Louis Saldenah Mas-K Club for ‘Our Heritage’. Third place: Shaleel Griffith-Ross of Toronto Revellers for ‘The Ultimate Steel Orchestra’.

Junior Queen: First place: Caneisha Edwards of Tribal Carnival for ‘Beijia-flor, The Samba Queen’. Second place: Jahzara Brown-Francis of Toronto Revellers for ‘Bassez Down in Guadeloupe.’ Third place: Kaia Cassells of Carnival Nationz for ‘Magic within Niagara Falls.’

Junior Female Individual Under 16

1. Reeyana Singh, Carnival Nationz, A Tribute to Women in the Military.
2. Makeda Joseph Brerton, Venom Carnival, Youthful Blossom.
3. Jada White, Fantaizia Carnival, Amazing Sunset over Lake Ontario.

Junior Male Individual Under 16

1. Amari Bowen-Otchere, Tribal Carnival, The Peacock Prince.
2. Elias Dasque, Venom Carnival, Guardian of the Garden.
3. Avery Lackpathia-Knight, Toronto Revellers,  D’Jazz Man

Junior Female Individual Under 10

1. Jada White, Fantazia Carnival, Amazing Sunset over Lake Ontario
2. Myauna King, Toronto Revellers, Little Miss Dancing Danza
3. Marietta Jacob, Louis Saldenah Mas-K Club, My Carnival Dream.

Junior Male Individual Under 10

1. Amari Bowen-Otchere, Tribal Carnival, The Peacock Prince.
2. Elias Dasque, Venom Carnival, Guardian of the Garden.
3. Avery Lackpathia-Knight, Toronto Revellers,  D’Jazz Man