A dazzling teenager who wants to be a role model for young Jamaican girls has reached the finals of a beauty contest.

Richana James, from Lunham Road in Gipsy Hill, is one of 14 finalists who will battle it to be crowned Miss Jamaica UK next Saturday (October 27) at the Camden Centre.

The winner of the competition, which has been running for 18 years, will be entered for the European stage of the contest and will represent the community at a range of events and meetings.

Richana, who recently started a marketing management degree at Westminster University, applied to take part in the competition after reading details about it in the Voice newspaper. After completing a tough selection process, she was chosen as one of the finalists by the contest's organisers.

The 18-year-old thinks she can create a more positive image of young black girls in the country by becoming Miss Jamaica UK. "I want to show we can step out of our box," she said. "If you put yourself in a stereotype it's hard to get out."

Richana said the fact the competition was aimed at people with a Jamaican heritage made it more appealing than run-of-the-mill beauty contests because it is geared to help young people at risk of becoming involved in gangs and crime.

"Teenagers need encouragement to go to college, university or have a career rather than having children at a young age or turning to crime," she said.

"My Jamaican heritage is very important to me and I visit my family there every year. They think taking part in this competition is a big step forward for me and understand I want to make a change."

But Richana admitted the glamorous side of being Miss Jamaica UK also appeals to her. "I'm excited about the final. We have to wear three outfits - one for our dance routine, swimwear and an evening gown. I chose something elegant because I don't want to look too sexy or revealing.

"All of the contestants are very friendly now but I think the rivalry might start to show at the final!"