LaToya Malcolm, a former Miss Universe Jamaica contestant and beloved entertainer, has died at 35
According to the Miss Universe Jamaica organization, Malcolm spent years building a public life rooted in entertainment, movement, and community service before her passing.
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The organization announced Malcolm’s passing on Saturday, July 18. According to the Jamaica Observer, no cause of death has been publicly disclosed.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Miss Universe Jamaica alumna LaToya Malcolm, who proudly competed in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica Competition,” the organization said in its statement. “Our heartfelt condolences are with her family, friends, and loved ones. Rest peacefully, LaToya. You will never be forgotten.”
Malcolm was known to pageant audiences as a contestant in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica competition, but her work extended far beyond the stage.
According to her contestant introduction shared by Miss Universe Jamaica and reported by Entertainment Weekly, LaToya Malcolm was a Jamaican actor and entertainer with more than a decade of industry experience. She also worked as a television presenter and dance instructor.
Her commitment to young people became another meaningful part of her story. Malcolm volunteered to help Jamaican youth access career development support and employment resources. She was also connected to the Transition Project, an initiative created to provide adolescents with training, mentorship, and tools to navigate new opportunities.
Malcolm earned another major accomplishment in August 2024 when she won the Miss Bikini Jamaica International competition. According to the Jamaica Observer, she also received awards for Best Figure, Best Legs, and Best Condition during the event in Mandeville.
The achievement followed months of demanding fitness and dance training. Malcolm told the Jamaica Observer that she spent significant time in both the gym and dance studio while continuing her work as an instructor at Encore Dance Studios.
Her preparation also unfolded during a painful chapter in her personal life. Malcolm’s father, Winston Malcolm, died in April 2024. She continued training and ultimately dedicated her victory to him.
“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,” LaToya Malcolm wrote while celebrating the title.
In her interview after the competition, Malcolm credited her faith, family, friends, and supporters with helping her continue after her father’s death. Her victory reflected the discipline she had developed through years of dance, fitness, and performance.
Malcolm remained active in entertainment shortly before her passing. She recently appeared on TVJ’s morning program “Smile Jamaica,” where she shared her dance skills with viewers.
“Rise and smile!” she wrote following the appearance. “Early morning moves and smiles! Thank you TVJ Smile Jamaica for having me.”
Dr. Gabrielle Henry, the current Miss Universe Jamaica titleholder, also reflected on Malcolm’s life and the effect she had on those around her.
Henry wrote, “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.”
“To hear of LaToya’s passing is a great loss to her family and the wider community in Jamaica,” Henry continued. “Her impact will always be remembered, and her voice will not be forgotten. Wishing her family my deepest condolences. May she rest in peace.”
Malcolm’s death comes less than a year after the Miss Universe Jamaica community lost another former contestant. According to reports, 2023 finalist Tyra Spaulding died at age 26 in September 2025 after publicly discussing her mental health struggles. Authorities were investigating her death as a suspected suicide.
Miss Universe Jamaica remembered Spaulding as “a radiant soul and an amazing human being” whose “light, grace, beauty and kind spirit touched every life she encountered.”
As Jamaica mourns LaToya Malcolm, her story will be remembered through more than titles and competitions. Her work as an entertainer, teacher, mentor, and youth advocate created a legacy that reached far beyond the pageant stage.
