Beginning today, The Gleaner will feature the eight finalists in Pulse's Caribbean Model Search (CMS). The women are vying to be recognised as the top new model in the Caribbean and to receive a professional contract.

Olivia Mekel

Age: 18

Height: 5' 9''

Country: Guadeloupe

Eighteen-year-old Olivia seems to have been destined to be in fashion, one way or another. Currently studying aesthetics in her native Guadeloupe, Olivia aspires to create her own make-up line.

"In addition to having a successful modelling career, one of my main ambitions is to launch a franchise network of beauty products in the French Caribbean," she says.

Interestingly, she may very well be on her way to realising one of her ambitions after meeting with representatives from Black Opal cosmetics last year. The teen entered and won the Miss Black Opal Guadeloupe title and earned the opportunity to come to Jamaica to walk in Caribbean Fashion Week. Her return to Jamaica almost a year later to compete in the CMS competition is one she takes very seriously and would love to take the title home.

"I am pleased to represent the French Caribbean in this competition and I hope my being here opens the gates for upcoming models from my region. I would be so happy if I won the title," she states.

Olivia quotes legendary Martinique star Mounia as her inspiration for getting into fashion and refers to her as a true icon of black French Caribbean beauty.

MeLeesa Payne

Age: 23

Height: 5' 10''

Country: Guyana

A senior company member of the International Classique Dance Company, Guyana's MeLeesa thrives in the performing arts.

"All of my interests lie within the performing arts. Although I love to dance, my ultimate passion is to model," she says. "It sends a rush through me. I feel enthusiastic and truly satisfied with every step, every turn and it builds my confidence. I especially enjoy the way it demands the attention of the audience."

A former Miss Guyana Universe, MeLeesa is no stranger to the modelling scene.

"After the pageant, I just knew I couldn't stay away from the modelling arena and I entered this competition with hopes of becoming a more accomplished model and individual."

MeLeesa spends her leisure time volunteering for community programmes and developing her self-started charity, The Beacon of Hope, which assists underprivileged children.