29/10/2025
Former Miss Jamaica UK 2013, Cherelle Mukoko is fearful for family
The Former Miss Jamaica UK, Cherelle Mukoko, who made history in 2013 as the first black woman to be crowned Miss Universe London while also winning the title of Miss Jamaica UK, shared her concerns for her family home, where her uncle currently lives.
It comes as the world’s strongest storm of the year closes in on Jamaica, with meteorologists warning it could unleash “catastrophic and life-threatening flash flooding” across the island.
“It’s definitely worrying to hear it described as the storm of the century, and it does make me think deeply about the scale of what’s coming and the potential impact on the island,” mother-of-two Cherelle said.
"This is an extremely dangerous and life-threatening situation," the NHC said, as it cautions people on the island to "take cover now".
Despite her fears, Cherelle said she remains “hopeful and optimistic”, noting that her uncle, who lives on the island’s central plateau, has weathered hurricanes, torrential rains, and several other challenges over the years — and has always shown remarkable resilience.
“Our family home holds a very special place in my heart. It was built with love from the ground up, it’s never belonged to anyone but our family, so every wall, every corner carries our history,” Cherelle told The Standard.
“We grow food on the surrounding land, and it’s always been a place of comfort and togetherness.
“Although my grandparents have now passed, my uncle, who lovingly cared for them for many years, continues to look after the home. We speak to him daily, especially now with Hurricane Melissa approaching, to make sure he’s safe and prepared.
Source: The Standard UK
