Yendi Phillipps, host of the Digicel Rising Stars competition was definitely pleased about something during Saturday's results show. - Nathaniel Stewart

Miss Jamaica World 2007 Yendi Phillipps yesterday officially announced her departure as host of the Digicel Rising Stars competition.

The beauty-queen-turned-TV host and now model, sent news of her retirement via her fan page on the popular social networking site Facebook. On her Facebook page, she posted the following message: "I've made a decision that I'd like to share. You all know that I'm very motivated by my spirituality and there are things that I am truly passionate about, love and wish to pursue. As a result, I've resigned as host of Rising Stars. Opportunities have come up and I walk with faith.Thanks for all your support over the past two years."

mixed reviews

Phillipps stepped into the role of host in 2007 after the departure of Denise Hunt from the show. Hunt hosted the show from its inception in 2003. Phillipps was greeted with mixed reviews from fans on her weekly performance.

STAR sources confirmed that the message was officially posted by Phillipps who will be sending out an official press release on the matter soon. Phillipps recently decided to follow her dreams of a modelling career working with the Base Model Agency in Cape Town, South Africa. She left Jamaica in October of last year for a six-month tenure at the agency.

Digicel Rising Stars creator Mike Hogan could not be reached up to press time. The series producer, Sharon Schroeter, confirmed that she had heard of Phillipps' retirement but was reluctant to give more information at the time. THE WEEKEND STAR addressed rumours of Phillipps' departure, but Hogan at the time was unwilling to confirm saying that no official decision had been made.

survey

According to Hogan, a marketing survey was being undertaken and the results from that would be available in the next two weeks before official decisions could be made. The rumours also claimed that chill room host Kiki would now be taking on the new role, which is unconfirmed.

On Phillipps' Facebook page, the response to her leaving was mostly positive, with persons congratulating the starlet on following her dreams. One fan wrote, "Happy to hear that doors are opening for you. At the same time, you have made it possible for a door to be opened to someone else! Continue to count your blessings!" Another fan said they wouldn't want to watch the show with anyone else as host.