Her story epitomizes persistence, passion, emotion, aspiration, and struggle. Without her unwavering spirit, her name would not have been in contention for the title of Queen of the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2024 today. Náyade Martín Delgado’s connection with this extravaganza dates back several years.
-You have been involved with the Carnival for quite a long time, haven’t you?
“Always. Becoming the Carnival Queen has been a lifelong dream for me. I vividly recall watching the queens on television and wishing to be there one day, to stand there and shine on that stage.”
-So, Carnival is an integral part of your life…
“Absolutely. I am an ardent fan of Carnival, reveling in every aspect of the festivity, immersing myself in the vibrant street celebrations. I constantly contemplate the costume I’ll don each year, relishing the entire process. Even before the current year concludes, my thoughts are already on the next one. I adore the queens’ galas and relish the comparsa competition; I attend Rhythm and Harmony. In essence, I cherish every facet of Carnival, deriving immense pleasure from it, although I have never been part of a group.”
-How did the opportunity to vie for the Carnival Queen 2024 candidacy come about?
“The possibility of being a candidate has always been there. I have been striving for it for many years, and this year, finally, after much struggle and petitions on social media, the opportunity materialized through David Hernández, who reached out to me. He inquired if I had realised my dream of participating, and upon learning that I hadn’t, he assured me that this year, he would help me make that dream come true, that this would be my year, and as a result, here I am amidst the frenzy called Carnival.”
-The journey has been incredibly challenging, hasn’t it?
“It has been an arduous journey for me. Simply desiring or thinking about being a candidate is inadequate. I have had to battle fiercely, solicit sponsors and designers for support, which is pivotal. Then, there is the day-to-day grind. “One has to prepare physically, as the costume is elaborate and weighty, and one must carry it with the elegance and gusto expected of a Carnival Queen candidate.”
-It’s an experience one needs to savor. How are you managing it?
“I am fully immersed in the experience. I am still in awe, finding it somewhat surreal. It’s a profound sensation that is hard to put into words. I won’t entirely believe it until the day of the Gala, when I step out as Náyade Martín Delgado, the candidate. However, I am embracing it with an overwhelming sense of joy.”
-Will you find time to don a different costume and revel in the Carnival on the streets?
“Certainly. I will make a conscious effort to wholeheartedly relish the street Carnival festivities every opportunity I get.”
-Share a bit about the fantasy you will be showcasing. Are you fond of it? Do you resonate with it?
“It’s magnificent, and I am absolutely elated with it. I believe it is tailored for me, as the name suggests – it embodies my greatest dream, the dream for which I fought relentlessly for many years, and now, I am here, paying homage to my dream through my fantasy.”
-Daring to dream already. What would it mean to you if you were crowned Queen of the Carnival on Gala night?
“Well, I am not sure. It would be unbelievable. I am certain I would be moved to tears, as I tend to be quite emotional, but it would be an immense satisfaction and a statement if a woman like me, deviating from the stereotypical image of a candidate, a 42-year-old, were to win. It would be marvellous to open people’s eyes and make them realise that any woman, regardless of her physique, age, can win the Santa Cruz Carnival. What truly matters is the determination, courage, joy, and strength one exudes during those three minutes of showcasing the attire.”
