A statement posted to Instagram on July 18, 2026, by the Miss Universe Jamaica organization announced the death of LaToya Malcolm, a performer and pageant contestant who died at 35. No cause of death was revealed.
Malcolm had worked across Jamaican entertainment for more than a decade as an actor, presenter and dance instructor. She took part in the 2024 Miss Universe Jamaica competition and also claimed the Miss Jamaica Bikini International title that same year.
Her bikini pageant win came months after her father’s death, a loss she processed while preparing for the event. She dedicated the crown to him in a social media post, writing that the achievement was in his honor.
“My beloved father, Mr. Malcolm, this win was for you. Your one and only daughter continues to make you proud,” she posted, saying she felt certain he was looking down with pride. She thanked her friends and family for standing by her during that difficult period.
Career Across Multiple Platforms
Malcolm’s professional life extended well beyond pageantry. She performed on Jamaican television, taught dance and maintained a consistent presence on stage and screen throughout the country. As recently as July 3, 2026, she appeared on the morning show “Smile Jamaica” to showcase her dancing. In an Instagram post that day, she thanked the program and spoke about beginning the day with motion and a positive mindset. Those who knew her said the upbeat tone reflected her characteristic energy.
Outside her entertainment roles, Malcolm contributed to youth-focused community programs. She participated in the Transition project, which offers training and support to help teenagers move into new opportunities. She also volunteered to assist young Jamaicans with employment guidance and career connections, according to information shared by the Miss Universe Jamaica platform. She listed travel, reading and sightseeing among her personal interests.
Remembrances From Pageant Community
The franchise remembered Malcolm as a contestant who participated with pride and made an enduring mark on those she encountered. In its announcement, the organization expressed sorrow over the loss of an alumna who competed in the 2024 pageant.
“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 stated. The franchise extended sympathy to those closest to her and concluded its message with, “Rest peacefully, LaToya. You will never be forgotten.”
On July 19, 2026, current Miss Universe Jamaica titleholder Gabrielle Henry shared a tribute via her Instagram Story. Henry, who drew attention last year after falling on stage during the Miss Universe pageant in Thailand, wrote that Malcolm’s death represented a profound loss for her relatives and the Jamaican public.
Henry stated that personal losses over the years had taught her to take time honoring individuals who embraced life with dedication and energy. She noted that Malcolm’s contributions would endure in memory and that her influence remained significant, extending sympathy to Malcolm’s relatives.
Responses to the organization’s announcement reflected Malcolm’s wide network. One individual recalled collaborating with her in 2024, calling her an uplifting presence who competed with determination despite mourning her father’s recent passing. Another described her as radiant and consistently joyful, adding that they were finding it hard to process the news.
The volume of public mourning underscored the breadth of Malcolm’s influence, built through both high-profile appearances and behind-the-scenes work supporting Jamaican youth. Her reputation as someone who approached every endeavor with warmth and commitment was echoed throughout the tributes. No additional information about services or the circumstances of her death was disclosed by the organization.