Introduction & AMBITIONS

Ms La-Toya Mathew is a 25 year old student, pursuing a Bachelor's of Science degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management at Florida International University (FIU ) in North Miami. 

Elegant, beautiful and talented, La-Toya achieved 1st Runner up in the highly touted 2007, Miss Anguilla competition.

She has a vibrant personality and its with pleasure we feature her on AnguillaLNT.

IN Her OWN WORDS

From a tender age I have always been a very high-spirited, sociable and affable individual, who is simply passionate about life.  Hence, my keen interest in extra curricular activities sometimes more so than curricular!  I did strike that balance, but my extra curricular activities always meant more to me.  As a result, I was a very active member of numerous groups throughout my primary and secondary years, as evidenced by quite an extensive list.  Some of my fondest childhood memories are of the many Girl Guide hiking trips where we were taught and practiced survival and cultural skills such as “cookin’ on di rocks,” which has certainly assisted young ladies like myself in many ways of self development.

Likewise, my interest and love for theatre arts particularly dance and drama, developed through my involvement in groups at church and with both theatre companies, later manifested itself into an interest and love for culture, festivity and pageantry.  Through my participation and success in local and regional competitions and my recent endeavor, The Miss Anguilla Pageant, as well as through other extra curricular activities, I was able to significantly contribute to my country, community, other contestants and the youth of Anguilla as a positive role model.  Personally, these positive accomplishments have helped me to enhance my communication abilities, increase my self awareness, esteem and confidence to immeasurable heights.

My recent accomplishment, contestant and 1st Runner up in the 2007 Ms. Anguilla Pageant, would not have been possible without the continuous love and support from family especially my sister Nicky, my biggest fan and brother Andy, sponsors, friends and well wishers. I Love you all and THANK YOU for assisting me in successfully accomplishing my goal.

I express however, sincerest appreciation to my mom Carol; a woman who defines strength of character, love and faith and whose strong Christian and family values and teachings has undoubtedly molded me into the beautiful, talented, ambitious, focused and blessed child of God I am today.

RECREATIONAL

I am a lover of the arts - performing arts, primarily a variety of ethnic and modern dances, interior design, decor, traveling and exploring the world, reading artistic, historic and cultural literature  as well as interacting with persons from different cultures, interests and similar backgrounds.  I  also have a keen interest for food and wines, coupled with a skillful culinary ability.

Favourite Quotations and words of wisdom
 

• "The Challenges of today teach us the lessons by which we live tomorrow".
   
• "Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes of your goal.” Henry Ford.
   
• "If you don’t pay the price day-in and day-out, you never achieve true mastery of subjects you study or develop an educated mind.”  Stephen R. Covey.
   
• "When you come to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on.”  Franklin D. Roosevelt.
   
• "The future belongs to those that believe in the beauty of their dreams.”  Eleanor Roosevelt.
   
• "I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” Psalms 91:2

mottos that guide her life

“Never give up on your dreams, dream and dream ‘big’!, Stay focused and do not surround one’s self with negativity but rather words of wisdom and encouragement.  Dedication is always rewarded and confidence never goes un-noticed, so stand tall and continue to reach for the stars!!!”