Trinidad & Tobago, along with the rest of the Caribbean, is rejoicing following the news that their very own Anya Ayoung-Chee has been named the winner of Project Runway 9. The American-born, Trinidad-bred fashion designer gathered the support of the entire Caribbean and has everyone in awe. Her success in the competition secured her US$20,000 for a challenge she won earlier in the season, for which her entry was inspired by birds, and US$10,000 for being voted 'Fan Favourite'. Now crowned the overall winner, Ayoung-Chee has walked away with US$100,000 from L'Oréal Paris to start her own line, a fashion spread in Marie Claire magazine, a US$50,000 technology suite by HP and Intel, and the opportunity to design and sell an exclusive collection on Piperlime.com.

The beauty has pledged her winnings from the Fan Favourite Competition to the Tallman Foundation (www.tallmanfoundation.org), a charity led by her mother which, "Supports the creative potential of the youth of Trinidad & Tobago to give them opportunities to stand tall, reach further and see beyond."

Soca News, Trinidad and Tobago, and the whole of  the Caribbean salute you, Anya, for your positive portrayal of the Caribbean, our culture and our people. We look forward to all your future creations and successes.