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Miss Universe Jamaica 2024 finalist LaToya Malcolm has died at the age of 35, according to an announcement made by the Miss Universe Jamaica organization on July 18.
By Daysia Tolentino Jul 20, 2026 5:28 PMTags
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The universe has lost a bright star.
LaToya Malcolm, who competed in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica pageant, died at the age of 35, the Miss Universe Jamaica organization announced on July 18. Her cause of death was not shared.
“We mourn the passing of MUJ alumna LaToya Malcolm, who proudly competed in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica Competition,” the pageant franchise shared on Instagram. “Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and loved ones. Rest peacefully, LaToya. You will never be forgotten.”
In addition to being a Miss Universe Jamaica contestant, Malcolm won the 2024 Miss Jamaica Bikini International title.
“I appreciate the continued love and support,” she wrote on Instagram at the time, “from my friends and family.”
She had dedicated her win to her late father who had died earlier that year, saying, “My beloved father, Mr. Malcolm, this win was for you. Your one and only daughter continues to make you proud. I know you’re smiling down on me from heaven.”
Beyond her work in pageants, Malcolm was an actress, television presenter and dance instructor. Shortly before her death, she had appeared on the morning show Smile Jamaica to show off some of her dancing skills.
“Rise and smile!” she wrote in a July 3 Instagram post. “Early morning moves and smiles! Thank you TVJ Smile Jamaica for having me.”
Latoya Malcolm/Instagram
In her spare time, Malcolm enjoyed traveling, reading and sightseeing, per her introductory video on the Miss Universe Jamaica page. She also did volunteer work helping local youth with career development and job resources.
Many fans expressed their condolences to Malcolm’s family, including current Miss Universe Jamaica Gabrielle Henry.
“After many years of experiencing loss and hardship, I’ve learnt the deep relevance of pausing and reflecting on the lives of those who lived fully, unapologetically and with great passion,” Henry wrote on her Instagram Story on July 19. “To hear of LaToya’s passing is a great loss to her family and the wider community, Jamaica, her impact will always be remembered and her voice will not be forgotten.”
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