André Jebbinson, Staff Reporter

Jodian Pantry, runner-up in the Digicel Rising Stars result show, performs during the finals. She won $600,000, among other prizes in the competition. - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

On many occasions, Jodian Pantry had one foot in and the other out of the Rising Stars competition. On each of those occasions, she managed to muscle up enough votes to stick around.

A resurgent Pantry sang her way out of peril two weeks before the finale, booking her spot to stand beside Romain Virgo, the other finalist.

Although she did not come away with the big one, nothing can steal her thunder.

"I have not lost anything. I am a winner. Not many thought I would be here tonight, but I am, and I am so thankful," a beaming Pantry told The Gleaner moments after collecting her $600,000 cheque.

She then went on congratulate Virgo on his victory, not neglecting to mention her own effort.

"I am not disappointed. I don't have that kind of mind. I always say the better person will win. I think the right person got it tonight," Pantry said

Dealing with unfavourable comments

Many have always thought of Pantry as being extremely reserved, but the hair came down on the Friday, the night of the results.

Long before the result was announced, it was a Pantry rarely seen on camera. She was calm, playful and somewhat charismatic. She did not for one moment think about conceding before the official result, but others around gave early signs indicating who had won.

The studio audience and those gathered at Mas Camp, the site of the all-star concert to follow, were all chanting Romain's name.

Pantry knew how to deal with it since she has been battered and bruised by unfavourable comments over the weeks. Considering the thousands who tried out, the number-two spot is a massive accomplishment.

"At this moment, I am too happy to think about anything else. I just want to go to Mas Camp and have a good time. This doesn't mean it is over for Jodi. Not even close," she said.

By that, she means she will be pursuing music regardless of Friday's outcome. She also told The Sunday Gleaner of plans to enrol at the Edna College of the Visual and Performing Art to enhance her talent.

"My fans definitely haven't heard the last from me. I plant to make full use of the contract and just make good music," she promised.

Appreciation of fans

And she has not forgotten about her fans either.

"Thank you very much Jamaica. I entered Rising Stars and you put me through to the top two. Thank you and big up," she said.

Before the winner was announced, Pantry was already winner in at least one person's book.

Marie Walters-Brown, Pantry's mother, would not have missed the show for anything else.

"I am very proud of Jodian. I was really challenging for her. I am truly blessed because I know it is the will of God. I thank Jamaica for their support of Jodian," the thankful mother said. "I believe this is a motivation for Jodi. She will continue to be a victor."

It was not easy for Walter-Brown to watch the judges lash out at her daughter, but she settled into role of pulling Pantry out of the rut when needed.

"It was heart-rending to see, but I told her no matter what the circumstances were, she was to take the criticisms and build a positive vibe. Sometimes, she would feel discourage and I pray. I am a praying woman of God and I believe in prayer," Walter-Brown said.

A female contestant is yet to win they surely knocked on the door this season.

Pantry would have like to see that happen, but Jamaica will just have to wait.