Pageant News Archive

30 Miss Earth candidates set to visit Urdaneta

2007-10-19T05:57:00.000-07:00

THIRTY of the more than 80 Miss Earth candidates will be in Urdaneta City on October 28, 2007 for the swimsuit competition.

Venue of the swimsuit competition is the Lisland Rainforest Resort located a few meters away from McArthur Highway in Barangay San Vicente in the city.

Join forum on Sandiganbayan's guilty verdict on Estrada plunder case. Post comments here.

Urdaneta Mayor Amadeo Perez Jr. said they would welcome the Miss Earth entourage at the boundary of Urdaneta City and Villasis at 9 a.m.

There will be a motorcade around the city proper. The candidates will stop for a while at the New Public Market before they would proceed to the new Urdaneta City Hall in Barangay Anonas for the tree planting.

Perez said only 600 "paying" viewers/audience (fee includes dinner) would be accommodated inside during the swimsuit competition.

The organizers will set up a big screen outside the main resort to give the public a chance to view live the goings on inside the resort.

Security and traffic plan are in place, the mayor said. A good number of policemen, traffic aides and barangay tanods (watchmen) will be detailed along the highway especially at the area fronting the resort to prevent vehicular accidents.

Perez said the visit of the Miss Earth candidates here would be a big promotion not only for Lisland Rainforest Resort but also for the city as a whole. (Visited in the past years by Miss Earth candidates were the cities of Alaminos and Dagupan.)

Meanwhile, representatives of Carousel Productions visited the resort twice and assessed both its facilities and environs before giving allowing it to become one of the venues of the swimsuit competition.

The resort (others say it is a forest in the city) has 785 fully grown trees to date.

The candidates will spend the night here before they proceed to their next activity venue.

According to Perez, five candidates will be chosen here as finalists to the Miss Earth crown.

The Miss Earth 2007 pageant will be held on November 11 at the University of the Philippines Theater. (LCMY/Sunnex)

Source: Sun Star

Miss Earth-St Lucia off to international pageant

2007-10-19T05:44:00.000-07:00

As the people of the Philippines set the stage for the arrival of the 2007 Miss Earth contestants, Miss Earth-Saint Lucia 2007 Oneka McKoy took her first international flight to the enchanting city of Manila, Philippines today (Thursday). Oneka is expected to be in Manila from the October 21 to the November14.
Since winning the Miss Earth-Saint Lucia title in early August this year Oneka McKoy has been undergoing rigorous training by pageant director Hanna Fitz. Oneka has been training to achieve internationally competitive walking techniques, and enhancing her question and answer capabilities. During her participation at the Miss Earth pageant Oneka will be expected to compete in the talent competition, where she will play a steel pan medley of “Island in the Sun” and “Woman of the Earth”—the theme song for the Miss Earth pageant. Oneka playing the woman of the earth song is sure to blow the judges away since she will not be expected to know the song.

Oneka’s costume was designed by Hanna and is named “Distinctly Saint Lucia”. The costume depicts our Pitons, flag and wings to symbolize the Amazona versicolour. Hanna says that she wanted a costume that was flexible to travel with and was also streamlined on Oneka because of her height (5”8) and petite frame. Oneka is very excited and grateful for the opportunity not only to visit the magnificent Philippines, but to have an opportunity to be an environmental ambassador for her country. While in the Phillipines, Oneka will be visiting schools to give speeches, visiting communities and making radio and television appearances.

According to Oneka, “My mother has told me that if I do not win this pageant I should stay in Manila”. The organizers of MESPRO International are very confident that not only will Oneka be a good representative for Saint Lucia but that she will exceed the performance of her predecessors. The organizers at MESPRO international say that “it only gets better with time and experience”. Stay tuned for more updates on Miss Earth-Saint Lucia’s performance in the Phillipines. To track Oneka’s performance in Manila visit www.missosologist.com or www.globalbeauties.com.

Caption: Oneka McKoy is currently in Manila for the international leg of the Miss Earth pageant

Source: St Lucia Star

Down-to-earth Aine hopes to win green title

2007-10-18T17:50:00.000-07:00

By Victoria O'Hara

Ulster beauty Aine Gormley will jet off to the Philippines this weekend to try and turn rival competitors green with envy and win the Miss Earth 2007 title.

The PhD student at the University of Ulster in Coleraine recently won the Northern Ireland Miss Earth title.

The 25-year-old, who has a degree in Environmental Science, will now compete against contestants from around the world to try and win the pageant - which has the theme, 'beauties for a cause'.

"I am flying out to the Philippines from London alongside Miss Earth England, Scotland and Wales," she said.

The student from Enniskillen says this was the first beauty pageant she has entered after spotting the competition in an email.

Aine, who is a member of the Environmental Science Association of Ireland (ESAI), the Irish Quaternary association (IQUA), and the Institution of Environmental Sciences, says she would love to win the overall title.

And the academic, who arrives on October 20 for three weeks, says she is excited but nervous about the competition.

"The nerves are really building up now but it is very exciting at the same time, I still can't believe it's all actually happening!"

"So far there are 82 delegates signed up from all over the globe so it should be amazing meeting that many people.

"My mother, boyfriend and two friends will be joining me for the final 10 days, which is fantastic and I'll be really glad of the support at that stage.

"The actual pageant is on the night of November 11 and will be televised nationwide via ABS CBN with international telecasts via STAR TV and the Filipino Channel."

She added: " Parts of the contest, such as environmental platform, national costume, will also be held and filmed during our three-week stay."

Northern Ireland company Belleek Pottery has sponsored Aine and has provided her with a gift for the charity auction. Each competitor is required to bring one representing their country.

"Meave Cleary from Belleek presented me with a limited edition Shamrock 3-Handled Cup from its Archive Collection to celebrate 150 years in business.

"It is absolutely gorgeous and I am so grateful for their generosity," she said.

"I think if I won, it would be fantastic and it offers the chance to try and highlight key environmental concerns as well as represent your country on a global scale."

Source: Belfast Telegraph

Model Truc Diem to represent Vietnam at Miss Earth ’07

2007-10-18T13:00:00.000-07:00

20-year-old model and student Truong Tri Truc Diem
Model Truong Tri Truc Diem has been chosen to represent Vietnam at the 7th annual Miss Earth 2007, which will be held in the Philippines from October 21 to November 11.
20-year-old Truc Diem, the runner-up of Vietnam Miss Photo 2005 and winner of the Best Advertisement Model 2006, is currently a senior at Cetana PSB Intellis as a marketing student.

According to Truc Diem, thanks to her excellent verbal ability in English, her 1.72 meter height and her outstanding posture, she will represent Vietnam well.

She is confident and eager to introduce Vietnamese culture and beauty to a world stage at the contest.

She will wear an evening gown designed by designer Truong Thanh Hai and a traditional Vietnamese ao dai designed by ABC Fashion Co.

Reported by Huy Tuong

Source: Thanhnien News

Miss Indonesia ranks 15th in 2007 Int`l Beauty Contest

2007-10-16T23:46:00.000-07:00

Miss Indonesia ranks 15th in 2007 Int`l Beauty Contest

Tokyo (ANTARA News) - Miss Indonesia Rahma M Landi taking part in the 2007 Miss International Beauty Pageant in Tokyo ranked only the 15th among the other participants from 66 countries.

Chairman of the Indonesian Ladies Foundation Wardiman Djojonegoro made the remark in a meeting with Indonesian ambassador to Japan Jusuf Anwar at his residence here on Tuesday.

Indonesia`s participation in international event was to show that Indonesia promotes its natural culture to the world, said Wardiman, a former education minister.

At the meeting, Wardiman was accompanied by Rahma M Landy and Kusumadewi Sutanto, a member of the jury.

Wardiman further said that Indonesia participated in the beauty contest to promote the dignity of Indonesian women in international contests, and that the essence of beauty in Indonesia concerns smartness in giving added value to the participant in the contest.

He also said that pros and cons on the need of Indonesian women to participate in the international beauty contest had become out of date. Meanwhile Rahma M Landy on the occasion explained her preparations of the whole process for the international contest.

Wardiman said he was not disappointed by what Miss Indonesia has achieved, because every effort has been made.

"I am happily and feel proud, as after being absent in the international event for 30 years, Indonesia has sent me to the even," Rahma M Landy said.

Rahma also said she was very happy as Indonesia won the "best speech" among the other contestants. (*)

Source: Antara News

Miss Universe says 'no' to wearing fur

2007-10-16T01:10:00.000-07:00

TOKYO (AFP) — Miss Universe, Riyo Mori of Japan, vowed Tuesday not to wear fur and declared herself an animal lover after a protest campaign by animal rights activists.

"I will say this out loud: I will not wear fur," Mori told AFP. "I love animals and I agree with those who oppose wearing fur products."

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) launched a campaign last week to press Mori to renounce fur, angered that she went on the catwalk with a full-length fur coat.

Mori and other contestants wore the fur coats during the final round of the preliminary pageant in Japan to select the national candidate, the Miss Universe Organization said.

"At that time I wasn't expecting to face this issue so soon as Miss Universe," Mori said.

But Mori said she felt the need to speak out about after being crowned Miss Universe in Mexico City earlier this year.

"I am invited to Fendi's show in China next week and I was encouraged to pick a coat because it will be very cold when I travel there," she said, referring to the Italian fashion house.

"The entire Fendi collection of winter coats which was offered to me to pick from was fur, but I said I would not wear one made with fur," she said.

"I will wear a white jumper that will be lent by Fendi."

PETA is famous for its publicity stunts and for targeting celebrities who wear fur and companies that sell it.

The US-based rights group wrote Mori a letter asking her to "prove that your beauty is more than skin deep" and encouraged its members to send her emails.

Ines Ligron, Miss Universe Japan national director who helped train Japanese contestants, said she encouraged Mori and other candidates to wear the fur coats in the preliminary contest.

Supporting Mori's decision to decline a Fendi fur coat, Ligron said: "She refused even though she was kind of pressured to wear fur."

Mori, 20, has said she wants to use her tenure as Miss Universe to fight HIV and AIDS and that she hopes one day to perform on Broadway.

She added she also wants to draw the attention of pet lovers in Japan, some of whom go to extremes to put name-brand outfits on their dogs and cats.

"I wonder how many children in Africa would starve to death while some people here spend a lot of money on their pets," she said. "We have to think about more than just what's right in front of us."

Source: AFP

Vietnamese candidate wins Miss International Image title

2007-10-15T16:07:00.000-07:00

The online poll for contestants in the Miss International 2007 pageant contest closed on October 14. Vietnam’s Pham Thi Thuy Duong was the winner, with 65% of the votes.

Commencing on October 9, the online poll received more than 10,700 votes, including over 7,000 or 65% cast for Thuy Duong, 5% for the representatives of the US and Mexico, and 4% for contestants from Venezuela and Hong Kong.

However, Thuy Duong is not among the 12 girls who are forecast to be able to win the Miss International 2007 crown. According to Geocities, Japan’s website on the Miss International 2007 pageant contest, representatives of Belarus, Brazil, Dominican Republic, France, India, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Spain, Turkey and Venezuela are the top candidates for the Miss International 2007 title. Japan won Miss Photo title on October 3.

Sixty-one beauties on Sunday participated in the rehearsal to prepare for the final night, which will take place at the Prince Park Tower in Tokyo this evening, October 15.

Source: Vietnam News Bridge

Miss Tibet beauty pageant begins

2007-10-12T20:20:00.000-07:00

Dharamsala (PTI): The Miss Tibet beauty pageant began here on Friday with the swimsuit round at the headquarters of the Tibetan government-in-exile.

Five Tibetan girls are participating in the three-day competition.

The participants have been given special classes in Yoga and a discourse on Tibetan history and culture.

Special arrangements have been made to handle the spectators at the Tibetan Cultural Centre at Macleodganj on the final day of the competition on October 14, said Lobsang Wangyal, the organiser of the event.

Judges for the show are Phil Voit (US), Ajay Singh (India), Andy Harrison (US) and Tara Phien (Singapore).

The beauty contest was organised for the first time in 2001.

Source: Hindustan Times

Vietnam can’t lose with Miss Universe 2008

2007-10-11T13:46:00.000-07:00

Dr. Doan Thi Kim Hong and Paula Mary Shugart, Chairwoman of the Organising Board of the Miss Universe pageant contest

VietNamNet Bridge – The government has approved Vietnam as the host of the Miss Universe pageant 2008. With $15 million in funding needed, where will the money come from? Dr. Doan Thi Kim Hong, Chairman of the CIAT Advertising and Trade Fair JS Company, which is one of three organising partners of the Universe JS Company, outlines some details.

The government has approved organisation but has it agreed to financially support the event?

According to our plan, which was approved by the government, the funding will be raised by the member companies. However, we can only organise this event with the approval of the Government and under the guidance of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and other relevant agencies.

Miss Universe 2005 in Thailand was half financed ($7 million) by the Thais Government and the rest by organisers but it still incurred a loss of over $1 million despite available infrastructure. Have you and your partners considered the financial burden of this contest, as we have to build all new facilities?

Our funding was raised by the three member companies of the Universe JS Company, the CIAT Advertising and Trade Fair JS Company, VIET CEO, and Hoan Cau Nha Trang. We have arranged the $7 million necessary for the contract between us and the Miss Universe organising board.

After signing, we will set up our own board that will raise funds through sponsorships and investments from both local and foreign companies.

It is estimated that the pageant will draw over 500 businessmen wanting learn about Vietnam’s business and trade environment. Despite possible difficulties and losses, this event will focus international attention on our country and should heighten Vietnam’s global status. That alone meets our definition of success.

As both businessman in and citizens of Vietnam, we are proud of doing our part to market Vietnam’s image to the world.

Do you think that local and foreign companies will invest in this event?

The Universe Company is prestigious and its members have substantial experience in acquiring valuable sponsorship. CIAT has 20 years of experience organising events. We have held many international festivals in Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Vung Tau and Dak Lak so we have diverse and strong relationships with local and foreign companies.

I hope that businesses will see it this as a wonderful opportunity to advertise their brands, not only at home but also to the rest of the world.

What worries you the most about your upcoming October negotiation?

How to meet the deadlines, but with the support of the Government, I feel assured. Moreover, the Miss Universe board expects Vietnam to host the pageant; all that is left are the details.

Sources: Gia Dinh & Xa Hoi) and Vietnam Net Bridge

New Law Sets Rules For Beauty Pageants, Others

2007-10-11T13:42:00.000-07:00

Under a new law, Gaming Act 2006, anyone wishing to organise a game of chance including beauty contests, sales promotion, television reality shows and SMS quiz games will need to acquire authorisation from the Gaming Commission first.

Recurring contestants’ complaints about non-delivery of promised prizes, viewers’ doubts over transparency in the scoring of television reality shows and public concerns over the methods used to determine games of chance using mobile phone SMS could be things of the past.

A not-so-new law, Gaming Act 2006, which revised and consolidates the laws relating to gaming activities is beginning to flex its muscle with the coming into being of the Gaming Commission under the Ministry of Interior whose business is to regulate, control, monitor and supervise the operation of games of chance in this country.

Under the law anyone wishing to organise a game of chance including beauty contests, sales promotion, television reality shows and SMS quiz games will need to acquire authorisation from the Gaming Commission first.

For the past few years, considerable furore has been raised in public over unpaid prizes for beauty pageant winners. In one case, a reigning Miss Ghana had to go to court to claim her prize and in another, the organisers resorted to paying the prize in instalments.

In yet another pageant, the contestants were told after the show that they should consider their participation as charity.

“That will not happen again, the Gaming Commissioner Mr Alex Baafour Gyimah told Showbiz, “My office demands that any organiser of such a pageant has to come to talk with us.”

Mr Gyimah said that game of chance organisers are expected to meet three simple requirements. First they are to visit the offices of the Gaming Commission located in Fortune House on the premises of the Department of National Lotteries in Accra to present their proposal to the commission. “At this stage, we will discuss the proposal and determine whether the game can be run.

The second requirement is for the organisers to apply in writing stating the nature of the game, the prizes to be given and the manner in which winners will be determined. Organisers are expected to pay GH¢50 as application fee.

Finally, the organisers are expected to convince the commission that they are adequately resourced to carry out the game of chance and be ready to pay five percent of the net value of prizes to the commission after the event.

“Our job is to protect the public,” Mr Gyimah said. “Our intention is neither to discourage people from going into promotions nor to criminalise promotions” but he was quick to add that the commission has the authority to invoke sanctions for non-compliance as set out in the Gaming Act.

Mr Gyimah expressed satisfaction with the co-operation that his office has so far engaged with almost all of the television stations which carry reality shows on their networks. He said that since the commission sent letters round a few months ago, all prospective organisers of reality shows on television have been to the commission to discuss their shows and to seek authority.

Only a few months old, the commission is yet to take off strongly but even at this stage, Mr Gyimah appears quite satisfied with what has been achieved with regard to their monitoring and supervisory roles.

“We have been quite busy poring over newspaper adverts, listening to radio and watching television for news of any game of chance activities and it is in the interest of organisers and promoters to talk to us first to avoid having their programmes brought to an abrupt end”, Mr Gyimah said.

“We expect honest dealings on the part of game organisers and not to take the public for granted.

Story by Nana Banyin Dadson

Source: Modern Ghana

Colombia's beauty obsession reaches even to prison

2007-10-11T13:41:00.000-07:00

Inmates take the spotlight at prison pageant

Angie Sanchez, the eventual winner, walks the stage during the prison beauty pageant in Bogota, Colombia. Scott Dalton: For the Chronicle

By JOHN OTIS

BOGOTA, Colombia — You could call her "Miss Death Squad."

Jailed for supplying weapons to illegal right-wing paramilitary assassins, Angie Sanchez is now, in a manner of speaking, a queen of the convicts. The slim 21-year-old took top honors in an annual beauty pageant at the Good Shepherd women's prison here.

A penitentiary may seem an odd place to display glitz and glamour, but the prison's warden puts on the beauty contest each year in an effort to boost the prisoners' morale and break the monotony of life behind bars.

"This is a time when they don't have to think about being in jail and can focus on being beautiful women," said warden Jenny Morantes. The prison holds 1,166 women as well as a handful of toddlers, who are allowed to live with their mothers until age 3.

Besides, comparing beauty is a national obsession in Colombia. The country comes to a near-standstill in November during the weeklong Miss Colombia pageant, while scores of smaller contests crown Miss Coffee and Miss Petroleum, to name just two.

Breaking stereotypes

Most budding beauty queens in Colombia are well-to-do teenagers with a coterie of advisers who prep for months by exercising, dieting, practicing on runways and contemplating cosmetic surgery.

The prisoners, by contrast, are often women from poor or working-class families. Many are in their 20s or 30s. Most are married or divorced. Some have children. Nearly all are tough women doing hard time in the massive, concrete guardhouse.

They eat greasy prison food and get little exercise, making it difficult to obtain or maintain stereotypical beauty queen figures. Some sport tattoos on their arms, legs and torsos.

But as the prison beauty contest nears, they get professional help from hairstylists and manicurists, who volunteer their services.

"These are people, just like everyone else," hairdresser Alfonso Llano said as he twisted braids and used a blow-dryer on one of the contestants. "Maybe they made mistakes, but they are here to pay for their crimes and to move on."

Besides Sanchez, contenders in the recent contest included a mother of three sentenced to 14 months for stealing CDs, a woman convicted of forging documents, and a Spanish tourist imprisoned for trying to smuggle 9 pounds of cocaine to her homeland.

"I needed the money," said Isabel Cavallos, a housewife from Valencia, Spain, who packed the white powder in her suitcase. "But they caught me at the airport."

Sought money, excitement

Sanchez, one of six children born into a family of poor farmers, dreamed of studying languages or working as a forensic anthropologist. But lacking the money for college, she ended up waiting tables at bars and restaurants for $70 a week.

One night, Sanchez met a group of paramilitary militiamen who had fought Marxist guerrillas but later became heavily involved in death squads, extortion rackets and drug trafficking. Sanchez, who was obsessed with Tom Cruise and his Mission: Impossible films, was drawn to their seemingly exciting lifestyle.

Soon, she was working for the gunmen. For double her waitress pay, she became a courier, dropping off weapons to paramilitaries.

The gig ended when a fight broke out at a paramilitary party. Police arrived and found a pistol and a grenade. Sanchez and her colleagues were arrested, and she was sent to Good Shepherd prison on charges ranging from weapons possession to membership in an illegal armed group.

"I never killed anyone," Sanchez said. "And I never thought I'd end up here."

And now, the final question

Despite her derring-do with the paramilitaries, Sanchez said she was nearly too nervous to take part in the beauty pageant. But she was nominated by her colleagues in Cell Block 2, so on the day of the contest she took a tranquilizer.

Wearing a purple evening gown and strutting before hundreds of screaming inmates, Sanchez appeared to win over the audience with her charisma and her answer to a question posed by one of the judges: What does the word "liberty" mean to you?

Speaking into a microphone, Sanchez replied: "It means that we can have new opportunities in life because we all make mistakes."

When the judges announced the winner, Sanchez received a silver crown and a massive boombox. Then, her ecstatic friends from Cell Block 2 paraded Sanchez through the prison on their shoulders.

A few days later, Sanchez reflected on her victory. It hadn't exactly changed her life — she's still behind bars awaiting trial — but she speculated that her crown could come in handy when she returns to court in November to appeal for her freedom.

"Maybe it will help with the judge," she said.

Source: Houston Chronicle

Activists urge Miss Universe to shun fur

2007-10-10T14:08:00.000-07:00

TOKYO (AFP) — Animal rights activists launched a campaign Thursday to pressure Miss Universe, Japan's Riyo Mori, to stop wearing fur, accusing her of promoting cruelty.

Mori, 20, a ballerina by training, wore a full-length fur coat at the pageant in Mexico City where she was crowned this year, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) said.

It is encouraging its supporters to e-mail Mori after her office refused to respond to inquiries, the US-based rights group said.

"As Miss Universe, you are expected to be a positive role model who sets a good example," PETA said in a letter to Mori. "Prove that your beauty is more than skin deep."

"By choosing to wear fur, not only are you directly responsible for the deaths of dozens of animals, you're also sending a clear message to everyone who sees you that animals' lives are less important than fashion," it said.

PETA also offered Mori weblinks to gruesome footage from dog and cat fur farms in China.

The Miss Universe Japan office referred queries to Mori's office in New York, where she is based. No one immediately could be reached at the New York office.

Mori has said she wants to use her tenure as Miss Universe to fight HIV and AIDS and that she hopes one day to perform on Broadway.

PETA is famous for its publicity stunts in campaigning for animal rights. It has frequently targeted celebrities and companies that promote fur, most visibly the British fashion giant Burberry.

Source: AFP

Miss Earth: “I’ll return to this beautiful country”

2007-10-08T15:18:00.000-07:00

VietNamNet Bridge – “I hope next time the Miss Earth pageant contest will be held in HCM City of Vietnam,” said Miss Earth 2006 Hil Hernandez Escobar.

Before coming to Vietnam, what did you imagine about our country?

Miss Earth 2006 Hil Hernandez Escobar: I learnt some knowledge about Asia, typical areas of Asia, including Vietnam while I was at school. My knowledge about Vietnam is not much but before visiting your country, I learnt some information about your country through Miss Water Catherine and on the Internet. I know that Vietnam has many attractive tourist sites. I have had interesting days in HCM City. The friendliness of people here is wonderful.

Before coming here, I heard that a big bridge in your country collapsed, killing and injuring many people. That’s very sad. We have sought more information from our guide and we participated in a fund-raising activity at the tourism exhibition to help the victims.

How is your feeling about HCM City after two days?

Miss Earth-Water 2006 Catherine Untalan: HCM City has so many motorbikes, which surely impacts the environment. But I know that your city has solutions to deal with this current traffic situation, for example building new roads. I think it will contribute to changing your living environment for the better in the future.

Miss Earth Hil Hernandez Escobar: HCM City is a peaceful, safe and friendly city. Today we went shopping. Though it was short it was very interesting. On the way, the thing that surprised me was that your city has so many motorbikes, which is very different from our country, which only has cars.

I also know that your country is campaigning for the selection of Ha Long Bay as a world natural wonder.

Will you vote for our Ha Long Bay? During your trips to other countries will you campaign for the local people to vote for Ha Long Bay?

Miss Earth Hil Hernandez Escobar: Sure (in Vietnamese language), I’ll surely do it.

You said that you will return to Vietnam. When will you return and what will you do to help Vietnam in environmental protection in the role of ambassadors of goodwill for the environment?

Miss Earth Hil Hernandez Escobar: I’ll return to this beautiful country but I’ll come back alone, not with any organiser. I’ve asked myself why I have not done much campaigning about environmental protection. But now I am thinking of the task that I can do immediately: organising operations to advertise tourism of Vietnam and Chile. However, my ability is limited so I need the help of everybody here.

Miss Earth Singapore Nicole Chen: Next time in Vietnam I will launch a movement to protect the health of passers-by. Motorbike drivers in Vietnam need special gauze masks to prevent dust from going into their lungs.

Miss Earth-Water 2006 Catherine Untalan: I think we should diminish the use of plastic-made products because this material is difficult to recycle. For example, if you drink water in bottle like this, we should not use straws. Or when we go shopping, we should not use plastic bags.

What places in Vietnam will you go next time? Will you visit Ha Long Bay?

Miss Earth Hil Hernandez Escobar: Next time if I have more time, I will spend the whole time visiting your country.

Miss Earth Singapore Nicole Chen: It takes just one hour to fly from Singapore to HCM City so if I can, I will come here every month.

A question for Miss Earth Hil Hernandez Escobar. Apart from beauty, what makes you feel self confident and what points of yourself are you not satisfied with?

I’ve gone to many countries and learnt about them but I think I still lack knowledge. Nobody is perfect.

On this occasion, I would like to talk about the Miss Earth pageant contest that I won last year. The last Miss Earth attracted contestants from 90 countries.

I hope next time, Miss Earth will be held in HCM City of Vietnam. That would be a way for us to express our interests in this beautiful country. The workload is huge with contestants coming from dozens of countries and their assistants. But if you try, you can do it.

Source: Vietnam News Bridge

Five contestants vie for the Miss Tibet 2007

2007-10-06T10:17:00.000-07:00

By Phurbu Thinley

Dharamsala, October 5: Of the many events in the month of October in Dharamsala, probably the most glamorous one demanding much attention could well be Miss Tibet Beauty pageant.

This year, five contestants are vying for the beauty title after testing them through seven competition rounds.

Despite much insisted hype by Lobsang Wangyal, the man behind the beauty pageant, to add more contending beauties to his show, the number remains at dwindling low. In fact, for this year, there is one less in number compared to last year’s.

Nevertheless, Lobsang is adamant and is hopeful to add more contestants in coming years, as he promises to continue with the beauty show.

“The enthusiasm with which more than ten women applied is a clear sign of hope to have even more contestants in the future” Lobsang said at the beauty pageant’s press conference.

Deeki Dolma, 20, from Gangtok, Sikkim; Tenzin Dolma, 21, from McLeod Ganj; Tenzin Pema, 19, from Clement Town, Dehradun; Tenzing Dolma, 25, from Gangtok, Sikkim and Tsering Yangzom, 20, from Kollegal, Karnataka are contesting for this year’s Tibetan beauty title.

“To represent and promote Tibet by taking part in Miss Tibet,” is the sole purpose of taking part in the contest for Deeki Dolma from Sikkim.

Tenzin Pema, a BA first-year student in Delhi University, on the other, says her participation is “to encourage other young Tibetans to come forward and be expressive of their own”.

Before the actual final competition rounds would begin from 12 to 14 October, the contestants will undergo a week-long training, which among others includes yoga, dance and catwalk, Lobsang said. A week-long training will be accompanied by orientation on Tibetan history, culture and current affairs, environmental issues, human rights and music and, visits to Tibetan Government-in-Exile, NGOs and institutions.

The contestants were yesterday shown "Miss Tibet in Exile", a documentary film on Miss Tibet pageant, directed by Tashi Wangchuk and Tsultrim Dorjee of Tibet Motion Pictures & Arts.

Miss Tibet 2006, Tsering Chungdak successfully participated in the Miss Earth contest last year and won "Miss Good-Will" title of the pageant.

“We hope to produce yet another memorable edition of the Miss Tibet pageant,” says Lobsang.

Source: Phayul

Vietnamese woman stands tall at Asian beauty contest

2007-10-06T10:12:00.000-07:00

Tall Vietnamese beauty Tran Thi Huong Giang is becoming a stand-out among the 30-plus contestants gathered in Hong Kong for the 2007 Miss Asia pageant, which wraps up Oct. 28.
The 20-year-old, who is a media studies student at Ho Chi Minh City’s University of Social Sciences and Humanities and at 1.8 meter tall, is the second tallest competitor after Miss Uzbekistan.

From Hong Kong she spoke with Thanh Nien.

Thanh Nien: How have you got on with the other girls since coming here a week ago?

Huong Giang: I would say that the contestants are not only beautiful but also really friendly. Japan’s Mikako, 16, has a good sense of humor, while Canada’s 25-year-old Jessica amazes me since she can speak some Vietnamese. I like chatting and I am easy going enough to get along well with everyone here.

Thanh Nien: Jealousy among contestants is common in most beauty contests. Is it happening here too?

Huong Giang: So far, I am sure there hasn’t been any here. The organizers are professional and fair.

Thanh Nien: Does your height give you more confidence and increase your chances of winning?

Huong Giang: It might be an advantage. Besides, I feel confident because of my intellect and dynamism. My friends here are beautiful and there are only a few prizes. Therefore, winning will depend on several factors.

Reported by Da Ly - Translated by Luu Hong

Source: Thanhnien News

Kidnappers, perjury and beauty queens: The stormy saga of Miss Georgia 2007

2007-10-05T10:25:00.000-07:00

By Ana Datiashvili

Georgia’s biggest summer news story didn’t involve reneging ex-ministers. It wasn’t about malfunctioning missiles, state privatizations or government shakeups.

The country’s most urgent contretemps revolved around an 18-year-old divorcee and an international beauty pageant.

Unless you spent the summer huddled in a Vardzia cave, you’ve heard bits and pieces of the story. This is all of it.

A questionable victory
On July 14 in sunny seaside Batumi, the Miss Georgia beauty pageant crowned 18-year-old Nino Likuchova its lucky 2007 winner. But when Likuchova placed that peacock-esque diadem upon her head, she contravened five decades of international Miss World bylaws.
Ms. Likuchova was married. Or was she? In Georgia, a simple question often isn’t.

The unwilling bride
The first spark in an inflammatory controversy came when intrepid Alia journalist Dito Tikaradze dug up wedding photos and records of a bitter court case. When the Alia journo called Likuchova to ask about the nuptial stills, he says, Likuchova denied ever being married. The newspaper went ahead and published the story August 2. The abrupt scrutiny forced Likuchova to confront a trauma she would rather have left in her past. The embattled Miss Georgia retracted her denial, and went public with her story: she was bride kidnapped.

“I didn’t have a happy face, and anyone could guess after seeing my pictures that I was not a real bride,” she calmly told the cameras on an Imedi TV talk show. “I agreed to the wedding, because [his family] was menacing me, and I saw that this was the only way to get rid of them.”

He said, she said, he won
Likuchova never explained the history between her and Merab Abashidze. Wedding photos show a blue-suited man, young but with graying hair, half-smiling as he props himself upright with crutches. His 16-year-old bride wears a white veil over an inscrutable face. No one is saying what happened between the wedding day and Likuchova’s day in court. Their church wedding was never legally registered, so the court case was not for a divorce—it was to press charges against Abashidze for abducting her. But after learning her alleged kidnapper faced more than two decades in the slammer, Likuchova recounts, she had a change of heart.

“I would be pitiless, if I let sit him in prison for 22 years,” she later said. “That’s why I decided to change my testimony—but this kindness went against me.”

In a bitter turnaround, Likuchova’s recantation led to her being convicted of perjury and placed on two years’ probation. Abashidze strenuously denies having resorted to kidnapping his inamorata.

“I never did anything to her by force. If I wanted to become her legitimate husband by force, I would have taken her to [the Tbilisi registrar’s office], but we were in church, having our marriage blessed,” Abashidze told tenacious journalists as the story unfolded.

The court believed him. According to Alia, he won the case by showing the court his wedding photographs—and by pointing out the difficulties he, a physically handicapped man, would have in forcing a teenage girl to marry him.

The controversy continues…and continues…
Miss World’s preliminary national competitions are carried out by license holders from Brazil to Angola to Romania. Ia Kintsmarishvili’s Image Center is the license holder of Miss Georgia for five years running.

“I protest against the violence,” Kintsmarishvili said. “Nino [Likuchova] was a victim, so instead of discussing her eligibility, we should think about how many girls are stuck in the same situation, and how they’ll get out if it.”

Despite her apparent concern for victimized young women, Kintsmarishvili kept media attention on the Miss Georgia competition. The pageant organizer convened a series of coquettish press conferences throughout the summer, each time promising to disclose the professional fate of the unfortunate M(r)s. Likuchova—and repeatedly pushing off any final announcements for yet another Image Center-sponsored press event.

By September, the time had come to put the scandal to rest.

The Image Center matriarch went on live TV to make her announcement: the council of esteemed beauty pageant jurists had reached its decision. Miss Georgia Nino Likuchova would keep her sparkling tiara, the council decreed, and the prizes—including a shiny new Peugeot—lavished upon her as the most beautiful woman in Georgia. But she would not be going to China to vie for the global title. Instead, second runner-up and lifelong bachelorette Tamuna Nemsitsveridze will carry Georgia’s hopes and dreams on her size 0 shoulders.

And the first runner-up, Nino Lekveishvili? She too was wed in younger days, the 20 year old admitted. Organizers stripped her of her title, elevating Nemsitsveridze to second place.

Miss World’s international headquarters told the Messenger they’re nothing but sympathetic bystanders in the dramatic tale of Miss Georgia 2007.

“Our reaction here is one of sadness for both the Miss Georgia Organisation and Nino Likuchova and anybody else that is involved in forcing anyone to do anything against their will,” said Julia Morley, a Miss World spokeswoman.

A teenage girl, trying to move on

At just 18, Likuchova is burdened with memories of a tragic wedding and a wrecked modelling career. And yet, coming clean on national television, she asked for forgiveness and understanding.

“I want to apologize to the public, and to the pageant jury…I never felt like I was married. I consulted with priests, and they told me that an obligatory ceremony does not make a real marriage. Getting married was the only way for me to get out of that hell. I was just trying to get back to my family.”

Now, Likuchova is back at university in Batumi, trying to put the entire episode behind her.

She would not put up a fight if they decided to take her title, she says: it’s caused her enough trouble already.

Source: The Messenger

THE REIGNING MISS UNIVERSE ARRIVES IN ST.KITTS

2007-10-05T09:36:00.000-07:00

Yes this is correct - St. Kitts!

Miss Universe & the Steel Orchestra. (Photo by Saju N’Galla)

Basseterre, St. Kitts, 5th October, 2007 – St. Kitts continues to welcome the world and the universe to its shores, as the, the reigning Miss Universe Miss Riyo Mori, arrived on the island yesterday.

Mr. Eversley Liburd, CEO of the 2nd Annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend, extended an invitation to the recently crowned Miss Universe® to be a special guest of honour at the event, which takes place from October 5-7, 2007.

Miss Universe warmly accepted and plans were put in place by the St. Kitts Tourism Authority for her journey to the island and her experience there. She was greeted and welcomed by Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Hon. Richard Skerritt who introduced her to Calypso Rose, who arrived on island simultaneously. Calypso Rose is due to perform at the launch of National Carnival(Saturday 6th October). Both Miss Universe and Calypso Rose were presented with extravagant bouquets by Minister Skerritt.

Within hours of her arrival Miss Universe, attended a Welcome Reception in her honour sponsored by Marshalls Restaurant, Beaumont Park and Driftwood. In attendance were local dignitaries, designers, models and the management team of the 2nd annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend. Miss Universe was all smiles as she mingled with her fellow guests and gladly took pictures with those who asked. She made time to take a memorable photo with a young group who provided wonderful music on their steel pans during the night.

Hon. Prime Minister Denzil Douglas & Miss Universe, Riyo Mori at a Welcome Reception held at Marhsalls, Frigate Bay.(Photo by Saju N’Galla)

Minister R. Skerritt & Miss Universe, Riyo Mori in the VIP Lounge at the R.L.B Airport (Photo by Garth Archibald)
Today Miss Universe will receive a full tour of the island and gain first-hand knowledge of St. Kitts’ scenic natural beauty, rich history and genuinely friendly people. This afternoon, she will speak to approximately 200 teenagers about her causes, which include raising HIV/AIDS awareness by focusing on women’s health and reproductive issues.

“We’re pleased to welcome the reigning Miss Universe to St. Kitts,” commented Richard “Ricky” Skerritt, Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Sports & Culture for St. Kitts & Nevis. “As a symbol of success and strength for women across the world, she is certain to inspire and educate our youth. We hope that she will come to love our island during her stay with us and want to come back again.”

Riyo Mori expressed how happy she was to be on St. Kitts and in the Caribbean and was overwhelmed by the hospitality she received on her arrival and throughout. She finds the island breathtaking and has fallen in love with the St. Kitts Marriott Resort.

Arrival of Miss Universe

Miss Universe, Riyo Mori & Mr. Eversley Liburd, CEO of the 2nd Annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend(Photo by Garth Archibald)

Riyo Mori was crowned Miss Universe on May 28, 2007 at the age of 20. Hailing from Shizuoka, Japan, she left home at the age of 16 to study abroad in Canada and reached New York at 19 years old. Through her travels and studies, Riyo has been able to master adapting to different environments, the importance of learning foreign languages and the need for intercultural understanding. She aspires to use her reign as Miss Universe to spread a message of empowerment and independence to women all across the globe.

The 2nd Annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend is part of the island’s Tourism Awareness Month of activities. St. Kitts Fashion Weekend will include a concert, food fair, wine tasting, beach event, farewell reception and the star-studded runway fashion show at the St. Kitts Marriott Event Center featuring fine clothing by designers from St. Kitts, the Caribbean and the world. Additional details for the 2nd Annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend will be confirmed in the coming months. Visit www.stkittsfashionweekend.com for the most current information.

Located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, St. Kitts offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destination’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history. The island’s stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking through the tropical rainforest, riding the scenic railway that connects the island’s sugar plantations, touring Brimstone Hill Fortress, the only man-made UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Eastern Caribbean, and the more traditional vacation pastimes such as water sports, golf, shopping, tennis, gourmet dining, gaming at St. Kitts’ exclusive casino or simply relaxing on one of the island’s sandy beaches. Guests can select from accommodations ranging from intimate plantation inns to larger hotels or resorts.

Source: SKN Vibes

Smith shares Miss USA journey on trip home

2007-10-05T09:30:00.000-07:00

Smith to be featured in MTV reality series
By JAMIE DEXTER
The Leaf-Chronicle

Just one year ago, Rachel Smith was just like any other college student.

"I was a college student at Belmont University getting my journalism degree and trying to figure out what my thesis was going to be on and get that out of the way so I could graduate in December," Smith said while standing in front of the Montgomery County Court Complex.

Since then, Smith was crowned Miss Tennessee USA at last year's pageant, then later crowned Miss USA — the second from Clarksville to achieve that honor — and finished fourth runner-up in the Miss Universe pageant.

Saturday, Smith will be handing off the crown to the new Miss Tennessee USA winner.

Things have changed drastically for her since then — she went from "cruising through Clarksville in my Beetle" to arriving for a public appearance in a white stretch limo, escorted by several units from the Clarksville Police Department.

"It's a complete 180," Smith said, showcasing her signature smile that would put even the most nervous greeters at ease.

Since being crowned Miss USA, Smith said she's been up to a whole lot more than could be shared in a few minutes' time — from putting her journalism talents at work interviewing celebrities at a philanthropic summit in Spain to introducing Wyclef John during a concert at Radio City Music Hall.

"I've been in this gig now for 6 months maybe, and so far I've traveled to Kenya for a volunteer project through a non-profit organization in New York called Project Sunshine," Smith said. "I've emceed an event at the White House for Black Music Month ... at a philanthropic event in Spain I got to walk the red carpet at the gala and turn around and interview A-list celebrities there including Eva Longoria, Goldie Hawn, Paris Hilton — It was insane."

She's also featured in a MTV reality television show, "Pageant Place," where cameras capture her life along with the lives of Miss Universe Riyo Mori and Miss Teen USA Katie Blair.

Miss USA 2006 Tara Conner and Miss Teen USA Hilary Cruz are also featured on the show — airing Wednesday at 9:30 p.m.

"It's been interesting," Smith said. "I've been able to do some incredible things during the time of the reality show — some things I wouldn't have had the opportunity to do otherwise."

Smith said the girls don't have a say in the editing process, so she said it will be interesting watching along with the audiences at home.

"They follow us on appearances and catch the drama, or lack thereof, that goes on behind the scenes on the way to events," Smith said.

Despite being a very busy woman, Smith said there are a lot of things she misses about her hometown.

"My family, of course," Smith said. "I miss going down to the Riverwalk with my dog, Zoe ... and just seeing everyone. You couldn't go to Wal-Mart without seeing someone you knew, ya know?"

Smith said that even rang true when she returned to see her family for her homecoming, and she went grocery shopping with her mom.

"I was in my pajamas, just casual grunge clothes, and people were like, 'Oh, there's Rachel Smith,' and taking pictures with camera phones," Smith said, laughing.

Before Smith made her way to meet the other Miss Tennessee USA contestants, she added the fact that Clarksville will always be her home.

"I can't thank you enough for your continued faith and support," Smith said about Clarksville.

"I will always give back to Clarksville ... And if you see me, say 'Hey, what's up,' because I'm always interested in knowing what's going on back home."

Source: The Leaf Chronicle

Miss Universe Canada adds sparkle to 12th annual Bay Street's AIDSbeat

2007-10-04T09:33:00.000-07:00

Inga Skaya Miss Universe Canada 2007 and Canadian Idol's Zack Werner to
judge at rock & roll fundraiser for the Canadian Foundation for AIDS
Research October 12th

TORONTO, Oct. 4 /CNW/ - What do lawyers, a Canadian Idol judge and Miss
Universe Canada have in common? They're coming together in Toronto for a
BATTLE OF THE BANDS: AIDSbeat, the wildest party on Bay Street! 1,200 lawyers
are expected to let loose, and raise over $200,000 for the Canadian Foundation
for AIDS Research (CANFAR) on October 12th 2007 at the Capitol Event Theatre.
Inga Skaya Miss Universe Canada will join Canadian Idol judge Zack Werner
and National Post Legal Post writer Jim Middlemiss as celebrity judges of the
BATTLE OF THE BANDS. Mark Holmes of Mod Club fame will host the party,
featuring the eye popping AIDSbeat dancers, painted body models, a performance
by chart-topping pop sensation hip hop master JDiggz and a spectacular fashion
show by Escada featuring Escada Sport and Laurèl. AIDSbeat is presented by
Georgeson, a Computershare Company.
"We are celebrating the 12th anniversary of AIDSbeat," says Patricia
Olasker, AIDSbeat founder and co-chair. "The event shows the best side of the
Toronto legal community - a tradition and spirit of giving and sharing. It
also reveals the truth about lawyers: We are not all about grey flannel
trousers and button-down collars. This is a seriously unbuttoned party!"

Five bands, all featuring lawyers-by-day, will battle for first place.
Prepare to put your hands together for:

The Gavelheads (Morrison Brown Sosnovitch LLP, Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP, Ernst & Young LLP); - The Thin Skulls (McCarthy Tétrault LLP, Investment Dealers Association of Canada, Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing); - The Right Honourable Jake and The High Court of Soul (Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP); - The Insecurities (Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP, Lenczner Slaght LLP) - Prior winners Jonas (Paliare Roland LLP, REMG Entertainment Corporation) as the opening act.

Event and Ticket Sales Information:

AIDSbeat tickets are $40 and available by phone at 416-361-6281 or online
at www.AIDSbeat.com. All proceeds from AIDSbeat support CANFAR, which raises
critically needed funds for HIV/AIDS research. Since inception, AIDSbeat has
raised over $1 million for AIDS research.
AIDSbeat will be held on Friday, October 12, 8:00 p.m. sharp at the
Capitol Event Theatre, 2492 Yonge Street (north of Eglinton).

About Georgeson, a Computershare Company:

Georgeson is proud to be the lead sponsor of this year's AIDSbeat.
Georgeson is the world's leading provider of strategic proxy and corporate
governance consulting services to corporations and shareholder groups working
to influence corporate strategy. Since 1935, Georgeson has specialized in
complex solicitations such as hostile and friendly acquisitions, proxy
contests and takeover defenses. Georgeson leads more M&A transactions globally
than any other firms combined. Georgeson also provides issuers with expertise
in corporate events solutions such as post-merger unexchanged holder programs
and information agent services.
Computershare is a global leader in transfer agency, employee equity
plans, proxy solicitation and other specialized financial and communications
services - serving more than 100 million shareholder accounts on behalf of
14,000 corporations in 17 countries.

About CANFAR:

CANFAR is the national charitable foundation whose goal is to raise
awareness in order to generate funds for research into all aspects of HIV
infection and AIDS. CANFAR is the only organization operating in Canada for
the sole purpose of privately funding research on AIDS and HIV infection in
numerous areas including fundamental and applied research, education and
prevention, psychosocial initiatives, care, and community research.

Source: CNW Group

After Aziz, who's next in Sush's life?

2007-10-02T08:57:00.000-07:00

Sushmita Sen is a woman of substance. She was the one who brought honour to our country by getting the much coveted Miss Universe title. She even dared to adopt a girl, Renee at a very young age. Even though she achieved everything in her life, she was always unlucky when it came to her relationships.

Sushmita always dared to speak when questioned about her relationships. In fact there was a buzz that Sushmita was supposed to come up with an autobiography named as 'The Butterfly' that promised to shock all her readers.

Source: India Times Movies

PNM wants Wendy

2007-10-01T08:53:00.000-07:00

Former Miss Universe tipped for Valley's seat

Anna Ramdass aramdass@trinidadexpress.com

PROSPECTIVE PNM CANDIDATE: Former Miss Universe Wendy Fitzwilliam

Former Miss Universe Wendy Fitzwilliam has been tipped as one of the prospective candidates to replace Diego Martin Central MP Ken Valley.

Fitzwilliam, who is currently the Vice President/General manager of Evolving Technologies and Enterprise Development Company Ltd (E-teck) might be one of the "new faces" Prime Minister Patrick Manning spoke about at a PNM political meeting in St Augustine last Friday, it was learned yesterday..

If Fitzwilliam decides to fulfil any political aspirations, the election battle will become a Queen versus Queen scenario as former Miss Trinidad and Tobago representative for Miss Universe Nicole Dyer is an active member of the Congress of the People (COP) and also their public relations officer. It will soon be revealed whether Dyer will contest any political seat when the COP presents its slate of candidates.

Fitzwilliam won the Miss Universe Pageant in 1998 and later became involved in social work. She was honoured by the United Nations with the title UNAIDS goodwill Ambassador, a result of her commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS.

She also a holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the University of the West Indies and was said to have been doing a remarkable job at E-teck-a Government company mandated to develop Trinidad's non-energy sector through the creation of new industry.

Speculation of Fitzwilliam's candidacy is high in the political arena, "I have heard about it, and if it is true then it will be very interesting," Dyer told the Express yesterday.

The PNM screening committee-blanked Valley, the current MP for Diego Martin and a call for new candidates was made.

Valley was screened as the lone candidate for Diego Martin Central last Thursday at Balisier House, Port of Spain but, was given the boot one day later-on Friday, the day Manning announced that General Elections will be held on November 5.

That very evening Manning told a massive crowd at St Augustine that the PNM will be presenting new faces and future leaders of Trinidad when the party presents its slate of candidates at Woodford Square, Port of Spain this Saturday.

Members of the Diego Martin Central Executive have maintained their staunch devotion and support to Valley and were not surrendering to any "new face" for that constituency seat.

Sources told the Express that Valley who has been fighting for a second chance since a PNM poll rated him as a low performing MP will continue to battle Manning who is hell bent on shaking up and changing the party for the elections.

The party was non committal on Fitzwilliam's candidacy.

"Right now it's an internal process going on and we have no official position in that regard," said PNM's Public Relations Officer Jerry Narace.

"It's news to me" said Valley when told by the Express about Fitzwilliam's possible candidacy.

Valley said he had no comment to make on being blanked by the screening committee.

The Express tried in vain to contact Fitzwilliam yesterday.

Source: Trinidad Express

2007-09-30T11:03:00.000-07:00

KUALA LUMPUR: Miss Malaysia / World 2007, Deborah Priya Henry, was feted today by franchise holder DDB PR and event manager- Beyond events as part of a mini send-off with friends of the media. Miss Malaysia World leaves for Sanya, China on Nov 2, to participate in a month-long series of activities in the run-up to the Miss World 2007 Grand Finals on Dec 1.

Deborah also showed off her elegant evening gown, specially designed by Melvin Lam of Melvin Lam Haute Couture. She will take on the catwalk in the gown, which will compete against 100 others from around the world for the ‘Best Designer Award’.

“This gown is gorgeous, and I feel very confident wearing it to represent Malaysia. Melvin has done an excellent job in designing it,” said Deborah, 21, who is originally from Kuala Lumpur and stands at 5’9”.

Melvin said Deborah has every designer’s dream figure and height. “She looks so natural in the gown that I am sure she will carry it off very well during the competition.”

“I had Deborah in my mind when I designed it. The gown accentuates her figure,” said Melvin, of the outfit, which has colourful batik floral prints and gold trimmings made from silk.

Melvin said the halter neck design emphasizes Deborah’s toned shoulder while the earthy colours complement her natural olive skin tone.

Melvin Lam Haute Couture is also the Official Couturier for Miss Malaysia/World 2007. He is based in Starhill Gallery, Kuala Lumpur.

Aside the elegant gown, he will also be sponsoring several other outfits for Deborah’s stay in Sanya which includes Cheongsam, Baju Kebaya, Baju Kurung and other cocktail dresses.

For the Talent Contest at the Miss World Grand Finals on Dec 1, Deborah said she would perform a contemporary Modern Asian Fusion dance called Asmaradana, which is adapted from the movie Puteri Gunung Ledang.

“I have been taking lessons to perfect my dance steps. I attend dancing classes at least three times a week. I have always loved to dance and I am glad that I will be putting my skills into the talent show,” said Deborah.

That aside, she has also been attending Celebrity Fitness Lifestyle and Fitness club, where she exercises regularly to tone her body and look her best.

The 2007 pageant celebrates 48 years of Malaysia’s participation in the Miss World contest, which was founded in 1951. Miss Malaysia/World 2007 executive producer and Model.Com general manager, Amin Hussen, said he is confident Deborah would do well in the pageant.

“As a beauty queen, Deborah is confident, composed and compassionate. She communicates and presents herself very well, and most importantly, she has stage presence. I’m very proud of her, and I’m sure she will make Malaysia proud too,” said Amin.

As Miss Malaysia/World 2007, Deborah is also a World Vision children’s rights advocate, and has helped to increase awareness of the organisation and create a lasting change in the lives of children, families and communities living in poverty.

She has also adopted a child as part of World Vision’s “Adopt A Child” campaign. Since her crowning, Deborah has participated in numerous charity programmes and causes.

DDB Public Relations Sdn Bhd is the Miss Malaysia/World franchise holder while the event is organised by Beyond Events Sdn Bhd and Model.Com. Rapp Collins Malaysia manages the branding and design aspects.

Source: Adoi Magazine

"African Models Have What It take To Be At The Top"

2007-09-29T09:15:00.000-07:00

Rosemary Chileshe is Zambia-born international model living and working in the United Kingdom. A highly sought-after international model whose face adorns several products ‘marketing efforts. As one of the faces of Sleek cosmetics her image has been used worldwide and she successfully led Sleek Campaign in Ghana for the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary. Rosemary is spokesperson for many brands.

She won the 2003 Miss Zambia UK beauty pageant. She represented Zambia at the Miss World Beauty Pageant 2004 hosted in China. Rosemary; she was this year’s Zambian envoy to Miss Universe 2007 Beauty Pageant, held in Mexico City, 28th May 2007. She’s been actively involved in charitable work as well as promoting the image of her mother country - Zambia. Outside her modeling commitments, she continues to utilize her influence as a goodwill ambassador with a solid foundation to help the fight against HIV/AIDS and poverty worldwide, with particular attention to Zambia. In July, 2007-Rosemary, Carl Ellis - a fashion designer and Miss Universe Zambia Team visited Orphanages - Kalingalinga (Lusaka). She also addressed an international audience at a Commonwealth Forum to commemorate World Aids Day 2006.

The story of this young Zambia star actually started as a beauty queen. Since she hit the catwalk in the UK in early 2000 it didn’t take long that she got signed on. After winning Miss Zambia UK 2003, Rosemary became a hot cake sought after by many agencies and designers alike, increasing the numbers shows in London, Manchester and around the UK that she was invited to.

Rosemary is a Commercial Property Surveyor. She’s the epitome of commitment, hard work and beauty. Our correspondent, Gbenga Teejay Okunlola, caught up with her recently. Find below interview he has for you.

TV: Tell our readers briefly about your family and educational backgrounds.

ROSEMARY: The other side of my profession is Property Surveying. I come from a family of Doctors, Engineers, Teachers, Accountants and those pursuing careers in law.

TV: It’s been a few years since you were crowned Miss Zambia UK. Would you say that was a turning point in your life?

ROSEMARY: No, winning Miss Zambia UK in 2003 was a progression to the next chapter. I had been actively involved in modeling prior to then. I was assigned to a Modeling Agency in Manchester that is where everything began; I was introduced to the industry, both its negatives and positives.

TV: Have you changed much since being crowned? If you have, in what ways? Do you enjoy being different? Is it ever an issue that you’re so much more elegantly dressed than your peers?

ROSEMARY: I am still the same Rosemary I have always been; of course with time, you pick up new interests; hence you evolve in your conduct. If anything I have probably changed the meaning of a Crown than the “crowning” changing me, I always say “it is not the crown that makes a person, it is the person wearing it who gives it meaning”. Being different on the other hand is a common factor to everyone; we are all designed in a unique format to everyone; so I definitely do enjoy being me, no one else out there can carry out a task, manage a project etc. the way in which I would; we have different thought processes.

In terms of being more elegantly dressed than my peers: dressing is a personal thing, at the end of the day, you wear what you feel comfortable in; and as a result, you look admirable to everyone else; you can not say “I am more elegant than the next party”, it’s a matter of opinion.
TV : How did you become a professional model? What are your dreams and expectations in modeling profession?

ROSEMARY: Modeling takes a lot of time and discipline. I was initially assigned to a Modeling Agency in Manchester where I was trained and groomed in the basic requirement. I then moved on to do various types of work in beauty pageantry as well as fashion shows. I always make it a point to learn something new from any projects I get involved in. My dreams are not only for me to be a well sought after Model / Ambassador worldwide but to encourage everyone else to follow their dreams, we have all got talents given to us, we just need to take time to realize them and act upon them. My expectations are not of the industry but of myself; you should never expect to get more out of something than you are prepared to put in!

TV : At one time or another, almost every young person dreams of becoming a famous model or actor. What advice would you like to give others who would like to pursue the same line of career as you?

ROSEMARY: It’s interesting you are asking me this; I am actually in the process of holding seminars to encourage young girls in the Yorkshire and Humberside areas, from 8 - 16 on the same issues. I would say it is fundamental to follow your dreams, no matter what you desire to do, I would urge for the basic areas to be covered in Education. Get your education covered, take time to analyze what you want to do and follow it through. Nothing will come easy, you need to exercise patience and allow room for disappointments; it’s through all of these that you will rise up. Once you have your educational background covered, you will always have that to come back to once your dream has reached its expiry lifespan or you realize modeling or if being an actor was not a desired route for you any longer.

TV : What’s the most fascinating experience you have had so far in your career?

ROSEMARY: I have had quite a few. I have to say, I am a very blessed young lady! Every experience encountered has been memorable. Miss World contest offered me opportunity to meet amazing people during the contest; it was not only sharing a stage with Lionel Richie, but also meeting him and sharing a conversation with him! At Miss Universe, it was meeting Mr Donald Trump and again, amazing girls with inspiring ambitions. In my charity work, I have met many humbled people both young and old, it is amazing how many dreams and desires everyone has and the determination they have in making them all a reality is overwhelming.

TV : Many young aspiring models lack self-confidence to build a healthy self-esteem, would you say training is the key ingredient to success? What do you think are the qualities to becoming an established model?

ROSEMARY: There are many aspiring models who lack self-confidence; I know this from my own observation of the industry and from girls writing to me via my website
(www.rosemarychileshe.com).For most of them, lack of self confidence is as a result of lack of support or not knowing where to go for help; for some it is simply being overwhelmed by the amount of personal time and effort they have to invest. Training is important but not necessary a key ingredient because every task calls for a different skill, you need to be adaptable to change and be willing to be taught. The qualities, in my view, of becoming an established Model range from self management, being disciplined and persistent. If you set your goals early on, you will know what paths to follow and when to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to various assignments. Some girls are set on being Models but have no real idea what that means for them; so they get caught up in saying “yes, yes” to everything, they lose their path and become history after a short while in the limelight.

TV : What do you think of African models in comparison to their western counterparts?
ROSEMARY: I believe African Models have what it takes to be at the top. They should not even give room to the thought that since they are Africans, they cannot be as good or as successful. In this industry, however, it a bit unfortunate we have to work twice as much to get to the same level as other counterparts; but that is okay, it means we get so experienced, we almost become a threat!

TV : Overall, despite difficulties in getting sponsorship and adequate support from their governments, many African models still thrive on the world stage due to their courage, tenacity, perseverance and sheer hard work. So, could they make ideal ambassadors for their nations? Could they be suitable role models for African youth?

ROSEMARY: Yes, they would definitely make ideal ambassadors. This all gets down to the person as an individual. The fact that they choose to carry on for the love of what they believe in, whether there is support or not, as apposed to doing something because it looks good, basically for show, warrant them that role.

TV : Tell me what the negative and positive sides in this industry are.

ROSEMARY: Well, I guess like in every industry there is always negative and positive sides. In the modeling industry, I feel the negative is that discrimination is still actively there for minorities. You could be 100% better than the person next to you; however a bigger chunk of your selection process also lies heavily on your ethnic background. The positive sides in my view are the opportunities you get; you are more able to be a spokesperson for your peers, you get a platform to reach out to so many people.

TV : You are Co-founder of the charity organization-R.O.C Foundation, tell me more about it and your partnership with Carl Ellis?

ROSEMARY: I have always been a dedicated charity worker. HIV/AIDS Awareness is an area I feel more of us need to step up and do our bit in educating one another. Carl Ellis is a fellow Zambian, experienced in fashion design and an accountant by profession. We teamed up initially to work on his Mother Africa Fashion Label, where I am currently the face of the label, which is getting a lot of press attention worldwide, especially as it is debuting at South Africa Fashion Week from late August to early September. In getting to know one another, we realized we shared the same passion for our motherland and we both desperately wanted to do something to raise HIV/AIDS Awareness. We decided to set up the ROC Foundation -www.therocfoundation.com with an aim of raising the HIV/AIDS Awareness worldwide and alleviating poverty. Our recent trip back to Zambia was purely focused on finding an existing charity, orphanage etc in Lusaka, one in greater need of financial support so that for 1 year, through the ROC Foundation, we can raise funds and feed it back to that charity or orphanage.

TV : You’ve been involved with some social responsibility and remarkable projects. Are other African celebrities like you in the Diaspora doing positive things for the motherland?

ROSEMARY: I believe so, there are so many people doing remarkable work for charity but they are not “documented” or captured in the public eyes. I admire such traits in people; they do the work and offer their assistance because they simply want to help, they are not seeking credit, it’s the best way to be I believe…. because God sees all that is done.

TV : Has your parents been supportive? Were they proud of you when you became a professional model?
ROSEMARY: Yes, very much! my whole family have always been supportive and encouraging …..

TV : What subjects interested you most as a schoolgirl?

ROSEMARY: Mathematics, English and Business Management. Were my favorites’ because I believed it would offer me a wider choice in specialist routes; as a result, my degree at university was Business Property Management, I now work in a Property Surveying company

TV : There’s widespread corruption amongst African Leaders, Does the thought of entering the political arena ever flash across your mind? Do you feel a strong personal commitment to change in Africa?

ROSEMARY: No, politics is not for me. There are people born for the job, I am not one of them. I do however have a personal desire to change a lot of areas in Africa ;only where my expertise are called for, you can only do so much as an individual.

TV : Models have become extremely powerful as role models, and often something as simple as a change in skirt length can be interpreted as having political significance. What’s your take on that?

ROSEMARY: There are different image you need to portray in various scenarios. If you want to be taken seriously in a business meeting for example, it makes sense to be dressed appropriately, be it, in a suit or a long skirt etc. The bottom line is that you need to “dress the part“; clothes are powerful in their own rights, they could either break you or make you!

TV : Do you have any plans in the pipeline for a fashion label targeting the Africans?

ROSEMARY: Definitely, no definite dates have been penciled for that yet; however plans have been discussed on the subject matter. Currently you could say I am learning the robes whilst fronting the Mother Africa Fashion Label.

TV : How would you describe Beauty and Elegance?

ROSEMARY: Very typical, however it is in the eyes of the beholder! Everyone is beautiful in their own rights, Elegance is a personal trait.

TV : Lack of African/Black Models on Runway. Is this reflective of the industry?

ROSEMARY: Sadly, yes, the Industry calls for patience and persistence; I believe things will change, though slowly but surely.

TV : When you get to a certain point in your career would you become very vocal about the need for more black models in fashion shows and on magazine covers?

ROSEMARY: Most definitely, I am pushing myself to get there first as I believe this is the best way to voice the concern and to show that it can be done. A lot of the times, it is best to have actions than words.

TV : Other than being home of the Victoria Falls and many other magnificent waterfalls, spectacular wildlife, superb safaris, great adventures, rich culture and friendly people, what makes Zambia different from other African nations?

ROSEMARY: Its vast potential for growth, flare of talents, creativity and innovation of its people in trades and textiles.

TV : Tell us things we don’t know about you. And what’s your Christian life like?

ROSEMARY: I am a well rounded person. Monday to Friday, I work 9-5:30 as a Property Surveyor currently dealing lettings, acquisitions and disposals of Industrial Units. My weekends are mostly consumed with travel in respect of my fashion and charity work. I worship with New Apostolic and very active in my work on Sundays, I am in church where I sing soprano in the choir and assist with the Sunday School children from the ages of 10+.

TV : How do you think you managed to break through in modeling and achieve not just success, but early success?

ROSEMARY:I believe my achievements have been through taking time to realize what my aspirations are and being focused enough to be able to turn down certain assignments because they do not fit my desired work ethics.

TV : Miss Universe 2007, (the 56th Miss Universe pageant) was won by Riyo Mori of Japan. As Zuleyka Rivera was crowning Riyo Mori with the official Mikimoto crown, it slipped from her grasp and nearly fell to the floor. Mori was able to catch the crown. What were you thinking in that split moment?

ROSEMARY: “Ooops”, no, I was just so happy for her, with many people on the stage, I did not even see the crown slipping until afterwards in photos etc. I was busy cheering on in the background, the whole experience was overwhelming, the moment of the crowning was a mixture of excitement and being relieved it was all over and I would be going home soon. We were there for a whole month of hard work; it was great whilst it lasted.

TV : Where would you like to see the Rosemary Chileshe in ten years’ time?

ROSEMARY: Rosemary Chileshe is a brand, so you will be seeing her face on billboards, on international runways and fronting cosmetic brands etc..Her name will also be linked to a number of charity activities through her charity - the ROC Foundation. I am also a motivational speaker….. my aim is to move into that arena and encourage the youth to be the leaders that they are for our future generations!

TV : What’s your normal day like?

ROSEMARY: Consumed with hard work from early mornings till late evening and where time permits, spending quality time with loved ones, friends etc.

TV : Are you into any relationship? Is there a Mr. Right at the moment?
ROSEMARY: Yes I am and I believe God has blessed me with a wonderful partner in life.

TV : How do you brace yourself up for some unwelcome opposite sex attention?
ROSEMARY: I never tolerate it, I am very upfront and always make it clear from the beginning that I am all about the business at hand.

TV : Who is your role model and why?

ROSEMARY: First and foremost, our heavenly Father, only through him is everything possible; my family as a whole because they are supportive and always encourage me to follow my dreams and finally but not least, my friends, through their achievements and dreams, am also inspired to move forward.

TV : What’s your definition of a ‘classy woman’?
ROSEMARY: Confident; one with self respect; being able to laugh at her own misfortunes; taking responsibility for her own mistakes etc being mysterious and business minded.

TV : When people ask what you do for a living, how do you describe your occupation?
ROSEMARY: I tell them, “I do everything from Property, Fashion to Charity work”. In more straightforward terms, I am a Property Surveyor by 9 - 5:30 profession and on my other side; I am an established Fashion Model and a dedicated Charity worker.

TV : Can you talk about what those benefits were that you saw in the early stages of your modeling career?

ROSEMARY: Having a platform to stand on and be heard.

TV : What else would you like to add?

ROSEMARY: Through my charity work, I was awarded GAB (Gathering of Africa’s Best) Award in 2006. You can visit my website and view all of my past work and future assignments on: www.rosemarychileshe.com; also you can read about my charity- the ROC Foundation - www.therocfoundation.com

Source/Credits: Gbenga Teejay Okunlola and Modern Ghana

Worldwide steroid sting catches Australian bodybuilders in its net

2007-09-29T09:02:00.000-07:00

By Jacquelin Magnay

A FORMER Mr Australia, a former Miss World Figure and a Manhunt International model are among 29 Australians caught up in a huge 18-month international crackdown on steroids and other sports drugs from China.

Raids in 10 countries have shut down a widespread internet drugs trade and rocked the blackmarket in sports drugs.

Doug Nicoll, the national investigations manager of Australian Customs, said the "overwhelming flood of performance image enhancing drugs into Australia has now been arrested to a steady stream".

The 29 Australians charged include personal trainers and body builders. Among them are Glen Purtell, 44, who was Mr Australia 1995, and Diane Shipway, 39, a former Miss World Figure, who have pleaded guilty to importing steroids. Brendan Brophy, 29, a model from the Gold Coast who ran second in the 2003 Australia Manhunt International model of the year, has also been charged.

With the Beijing Olympics looming, the United States led a sting operation involving Australia, Germany, Denmark, Mexico, Canada, Belgium, Sweden and Thailand. It centred on the distribution of bulk raw drugs from three Chinese locations. The Chinese Government co-operated with the investigation, allowing US officers to infiltrate one laboratory that was producing human growth hormone.

The focus was on smuggling of drugs, but the raids led to electronic evidence of buyers' names. The World Anti-Doping Agency and the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority are collaborating with customs to see if any sportspeople are involved.

The chairman of the World Anti-Doping Agency, Dick Pound, said he hoped authorities could turn over a list of names in time for the agency to take action against any athletes before the Beijing Olympics, which start next August.

Rusty Payne, a spokesman for the US Drug Enforcement Administration, said: "Everybody recognised the timing. We don't work with our heads in the sand. Olympic officials have been very interested in this and are obviously very pleased."

The US operation, called Operation Raw Deal, resulted in the closure of 56 steroid laboratories, the seizure of 11.4 million units of steroids and 242 kilograms of raw steroid powder as well as $US6.5 million ($7.3 million) in cash.

In the final stages of the operation this month, 124 people were arrested, the Drug Enforcement Administration announced in Washington.

In Australia, Operation Kasha resulted in more than 1400 separate seizures of steroids, growth hormone and other performance and image-enhancing drugs, the execution of 145 search and seizure warrants, and the charging of 29 people with a range of prohibited import offences. Most of the 200 members of Australian Custom's investigative unit were involved in Operation Kasha.

"The international operation demonstrates the seriousness with which authorities throughout the world are treating steroid smuggling," Mr Nicoll said.

Operation Kasha involved raids on properties throughout Australia. Many of those charged in Australia are still before the courts.

Brophy faces jail if convicted of importing and trafficking steroids and human growth hormone. Brisbane District Court heard earlier this month that he imported growth hormones and steroids four times in August and September last year.

He is on bail awaiting trial and is yet to enter a plea.

Glen Purtell and Diane Shipway pleaded guilty to importing anabolic steroid clomifene citrate and more than 100 vials of human growth hormone after customs intercepted mail and conducted raids on their Brisbane premises. They were fined $14,000.

The Sydney bodybuilding brothers Johnathon Kyriacou and Adrian Kyriacou were fined a total of $34,000 for importing hundreds of vials of steroids when they appeared in the Sydney Downing Centre local court in May.

Source: The Sydney Morning Herald

Courtside charmer

2007-09-28T07:52:00.000-07:00

By Giovanni Paolo J. Yazon

BEAUTY and brains are “two Bs” that’ll always be attached to the name of Catherine Untalan.

Beauty: This 21-year-old came close to winning a world beauty title. Cathy, her nickname, finished second runner-up in the Miss Earth pageant in November last year, which makes her the highest-placing Filipino candidate in this prestigious global search, to date.

Brains: She graduated cum laude with a degree in psychology at the University of the Philippines in Diliman; she’s now pursuing further studies in environment and natural resource management at UP’s Open University.

Add another B for basketball!

No, this six footer’s not an inclusion in this year’s lineup of the UP Lady Maroons, but she’s a delightful addition to the University Athletic Association of the Philippines’ new breed of courtside reporters along with Tracy Abad (University of the East), Rizza Diaz (National University), Vanna Lim (Ateneo de Manila University), Andi Manzano (Far Eastern University), Diane Querer (University of Santo Tomas), Sharon Yu (De La Salle University) and Aaron Atayde (Adamson University).

Cathy gives details on just about everything that happens on court—that sports commentators don’t get to see—like when one of the Fighting Maroons slashes his way to the basket or posts defenses!

The beginning

“It’s my fondness of basketball that motivated me to give courtside reporting a try. [I said to myself that maybe] it’d be interesting to see a courtside reporter that’s as tall as the basketball players,” she begins. “I auditioned during my last year in college [May of 2005, when ABS-CBN Sports advertised that they’d be having a screening].”

Cathy got a call from ABS-CBN after a year. “When they called me, they were unaware that I was already a beauty queen (she smiles).” As the cliché goes, the rest is history. She became a courtside reporter for the San Beda Red Lions team in the National Collegiate Athletic Association last year.

When asked if her NCAA stint helped her express ideas impeccably during her interviews at the Miss Earth pageant, Cathy says she thinks so. Months after she relinquished her crown as Miss Philippines-Earth of 2006, she again received a call from ABS-CBN Sports, inviting her to be a courtside reporter in this year’s season of UAAP, but this time for the UP Fighting Maroons. “I just hope that I’d be given another chance next year… it’s our [UP’s] 100th year!” she enthuses.

Her role models include sports anchors Dyan Castillejo and Luigi Trillo.

Must-haves

“You must be a college student, you have to look good in front of the camera, you have a working knowledge of the game [especially the terms commonly used], and you must be able to handle the pressure on court… because you will write your own spiels. We [courtside reporters] are also required to attend the practices of our respective teams. But overall, it’s fun!”

And speaking of fun, Cathy reveals some of her bloopers: “I read wrong names [of players] or swap the names of sports anchors. [While reporting for the Red Lions], I walked towards the camera while talking. The crew then asked me, Cathy, bakit ka naglalakad? I also used to say ‘thank you’ [after every report]. So they would tell me na kung mag-report daw ako pang-beauty pageant (she giggles).

“[But] what I like most about this job is that I get to show another side of my personality—the active [sporty] and cowboy side, especially when I tag along with the players. Frustration na rin, because I never had the chance to pursue any sport.” Cathy’s recruited to become part of the UP women’s basketball team. “…But I just tell them courtside reporter na lang ako (she smiles).”

The challenging part

“[There are times that] I tend to lose myself… nadadala ako ng game, but I still have to report. Coming from a champion team in NCAA last year, it’s [like it’s] hard to accept that my [present] team lost,” she sighs.

Should a courtside reporter come from the school that he or she is giving an account of? “There are two advantages: First is the school spirit, mas feel mo kasi and you’ll fight for your school through thick and thin. Second is the accessibility, since you know some people in your school, mas madali ang access to attend meetings or practices ng team. [On the contrary] you still have to deliver your reports well [than just having these advantages].”

And if you want to be a courtside reporter, Cathy says: “Do it not because of a vested interest [that you have a crush on a certain player, which is actually a running joke]. Do it for your school and do it for yourself. Practice a lot.”

Before we parted ways, Cathy gave this writer a sample of her favorite spiel: “I may be too optimistic in saying this, but I believe that even though it’s already the last quarter, the UP Fighting Maroons are still ‘gonna try and give all their best ‘til the very end of this game!”

Source: Manila Standard Today

Overseas judge for 2007 Miss Cayman Pageant

2007-09-28T07:50:00.000-07:00

Broadway star, beauty pageant veteran and actress, Lisa Mandel, has offered her services in the judging of the 2007 Miss Cayman Islands Pageant, on Saturday, 29 September at the Lions Centre.

From America’s Junior Miss to Miss Arizona, Ms Mandel also has an extensive background in theatre and film. She has starred in shows such as “The Will Rogers Follies”, “Barry Manilow’s Copacabana, and the global smash hit, “Mamma Mia!”

Ms Mandel made her Broadway debut in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard, understudied the role of Ulla in The Producers, and portrayed the evil nurse, Hilda Schmitt, on As the World Turns.

“We’re pleased that Ms Mandel is here to be a part of our pageant,” Miss Cayman Committee’s Chairperson Jacqui Terry said.

“With her impressive experiences and background, our contestants will have a great opportunity to learn about international pageants.”

Source: Cayman Net News

Nikita Anand did not want to join films

2007-09-28T07:46:00.000-07:00

By Agencies

Nikita Anand is the latest in the line of beauty queens to enter the film scene from the world of ramp.

On the face of it, former Miss India Nikita, who makes her debut in Hindi films with Manish Tiwari's Dil Dosti Etc (not counting Life Mein Kabhie Kabhiee which featured her in a small role) releasing across the country today, may seem just another beauty pageant winner entering films by cashing in on the limelight coming her way.

For Nikita, however, the foray in films is a well thought out move that comes after a lot of deliberation.

''For me, after winning the Miss India crown, doing films was not a natural choice. In fact, initially, I did not want to join films as I did not have any preparation or background. I like to be confident of what I am doing before venturing into it, '' Nikita said on the eve of the release of 'Dil Dosti etc', which also marks veteran filmmaker Prakash Jha 's debut as a producer.

Said Nikita, who features in the film alongside Shreyas Talpade (of Iqbal fame), newcomers Imaad Shah (son of Naseeruddin Shah ) and Ishita Sharma and Smriti Mishra , ''you know, I cannot get into films just because others are doing so. In fact, earlier I just did not want to do films. However, a brief stint with theatre whetted my appetite for a career in films. Still, before coming in films, I wanted to do some ground work for a career in tinsel town.''

''There may be a lot of people who have not undergone a formal training in acting and yet made a successful foray in films. But, then, everyone has his or her own way of approaching things. I am basically a person who wants to be well prepared before trying my hand at something. So, I have taken my time entering films, undergoing in the meantime training in Kathak besides doing many workshops in acting,'' said Nikita.

Asked whether she felt the pressure of expectations upon her with several beauty pageant winners like Sushmita Sen , Aishwarya Rai , Lara Dutta and Priyanka Chopra establishing a niche for themselves in the tinsel town, Nikita said, ''expectations are always there from every actress who joins films. This trend of beauty pageant winners joining films started in 1994 when Sushmita Sen and Aishwarya Rai joined the industry. They were followed by Lara and Priyanka and all have been successful so obviously there will be more expectations from me too. However, I am prepared for it.''

Talking about 'Dil Dosti etc', Nikita said, ''actually, 'Dil Dosti is the first film that I signed after I decided to enter films. 'Life Mein Kabhi Kabhie' was a film I signed much later and has me just in a small role.''

About her role in the film, she said, ''I play a character called Prerna belonging to a very well to do family. She has a lot of dreams and aspirations and wants to make it big in life and become a model. She joins this college and meets Shiv and falls in love with him even though he is the total opposite of her in terms of background. But like her, Shiv is also highly ambitious in his own way.''

Incidentally, the film also features her in a kissing scene with her co-star Shreyas (who plays the role of her boyfriend Shiv). Media reports have it that Shreyas got very nervous during the kissing scene.

Source: Apun Ka Choice

Miss Universe 2008 pageant glides into Viet Nam

2007-09-28T07:43:00.000-07:00

The Vietnamese Government on Wednesday approved the organisation of the Miss Universe 2008 pageant in the southern coastal province of Khanh Hoa.

Doan Kim Hong, chairwoman of the Advertising and Trade Fair Joint Stock CO, has the difficult job of co-ordinating the contest. To that end, the Hoan Vu Joint Stock Co has been established and has partnered with Nha Trang’s Hoan Cau Ltd Co and the Viet CEO Co.

They have raised the US$7 million necessary to sign the contract with the organising board.

"My two partners and I will travel to New York early next month to meet with and discuss financial and organisational issues with the pageants organising board," Hong said.

A lawyer and an expert in administrative processes will also accompany them.

Paula Mary Shugart, chairwoman of the Miss Universe Organising Board explained the eligibility conditions Viet Nam must satisfy.

These include: official government endorsement; financing of $15 million ($7 million for the pageant’s royalty, and the rest covering manpower and infrastructure expenses); an in-doors air-conditioned stage and audience hall with the capacity of 7,500 seats, 5,000 standard hotel rooms; as well as vehicles and bodyguards for the contestants.

Khanh Hoa People’s Committee plans to build a new pageant hall in Diamond Bay. Construction should start early next month and finish by mid-April.

Set decoration, backdrops and the sound and lighting systems will be contracted out to a foreign company.

Month-long tests will be conducted before the hall hosts the final round of the contest.

Hotel Sofitel Vinpearl will be the temporary home of the pageant’s VIPs, organisers, contestants and official guests, said Le Khac Hiep, chairman of the managing board of Vinpearl Joint Stock Company.

The local authorities also plan to upgrade Cam Ranh into an international airport by 2008. — VNS

Source: Vietnam News

Vietnam beauties cover the region’s pageants this week

2007-09-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

Dang Minh Thu (1.68m), second runner-up at Miss Vietnam World 2007

Vietnam’s representation in the region’s beauty stakes heats up with four more Vietnamese beauties competing in four separate pageants, three within the coming week.

Miss Hai Duong province 2006 Tran Thi Huong Giang will compete in Miss Asia 2007 Hong Kong over September 30 to October 28.

Twenty-year-old Giang, 1.76 meter tall, is a media studies student at Ho Chi Minh City’s University of Social Sciences and Humanities.

Nguyen Ai Chau, the runner-up of Miss Photogenic Vietnam 2006 organized by the Phu Nu (Women) Magazine, will strut at Miss Young International 2007 in Taiwan over October 9 to 29.
Chau is a junior in Van Lang University’s Foreign Languages Faculty in Ho Chi Minh City.

Competing at Miss International 2007 in Japan over September 30 to October 17 is Pham Thu Thuy Duong, a singer of military artist troupe.

Duong (1.75m) was among the ten finalists at Miss Vietnam Contest 2006. She also won top honors in northern Vietnam’s 2005 Supermodel Contest.

Dang Minh Thu (1.68m), second runner-up at Miss Vietnam World 2007 which wrapped up early this month will compete at the Miss World 2007 to be held Hainan, China, this December. Thu, 19, is a student of Hanoi Open University.

Sources: Thanh Nien, Tuoi Tre – Compiled by Luu Thi Hong and Thanhnien News

Beauties battle for Miss Earth

2007-09-27T10:15:00.000-07:00

Miss Earth ... Victoria Stewart. Picture: Alexander Alba Photography

By Saffron Howden

IT is a beauty pageant with an environmentally friendly message.

The Miss Earth Australia contest proves you can pose semi-naked on a beach and conserve the trees, too.

With environmental issues and climate change near the top of Australia's list of concerns these days, an entrepreneur decided to use busty blondes and brunettes to raise awareness of a planet in crisis.

The competition, in its fourth year in Australia, drew 36 contestants from all over the country in 2007.

A quick glance at the Miss Earth website suggests saving the environment is as much about climate change as it is about cleavage.

The winner of Australian Miss Earth, 21-year-old Canberra resident Victoria Stewart, has no qualms about posing in a bikini to enforce her views on global warming.

"There are many sources of natural pollution that face the world but I think the biggest issue is man-made pollution and environmental damage," she says on her website profile.

Ms Stewart will fly to the Philippines next month to compete in the international Miss Earth pageant.

If she wins, Australia could be graced with the international pageant next year.

Source: The Daily Telegraph

Dang Minh Thu to join Miss World 2007

2007-09-27T10:11:00.000-07:00

Dang Minh Thu, the second runner up at the recently held Miss Vietnam Global, is chosen for the competition of Miss World 2007 which will take place for one month, from November 1 in Hainan Island, China.

Earlier, Dang Minh Thu was crowned Miss Beach Vietnam 2006. She is 1.68m tall with body measurement of 85- 63-90. Thu, born in 1988, is now the first year student of the Hanoi Open University.

Thuy Hanh, professional director of Elite Model Beauty Vietnam, the only agency authorised to select beauties to compete at international beauty pageants, said with such above two titles, Dang Minh Thu is eligible for the Miss World contest under the regulations of the State as well as the organising board. She also added that Miss Vietnam World Ngo Phuong Lan won’t join the Miss World 2007 because she can’t arrange the time, whereas the first runner up Teressa Sam won’t take part in the competition either as she can’t speak Vietnamese and she has British citizenship.

(Thanh Nien, Tuoi Tre)

Source: Nhan Dan

Richa’s mom to attend Miss World contest in China

2007-09-27T10:08:00.000-07:00

MOTHER of Miss Tanzania 2007, Maria Cercacia, has confirmed that she will attend the Miss World beauty pageant slated for China towards the end of this year.

The Public Relations Officer of the Miss Tanzania Organising Committee, Rico Idan, told the ‘Daily News’ in Dar es Salaam yesterday that Maria is among the people who will go and attend the event in China.

However, she said that Maria would foot all her transport and accommodation bills.

Miss Tanzania 2007, Richa Adhia, expects to arrive in China on November 2, one month before her mother joins her.

Meanwhile, Idan said that according to the rules, the committee is supposed to promote the country’s tourism sector and provide employment opportunities.

He was responding to a statement by the President of Miss Tourism Event, Gideon Chipungahelo, that the Miss Tanzania Organising Committee is wrong to say that one of its responsibilities is to promote the tourism sector.

Source: Daily News

Miss Universe 2008 to take place in Vietnam

2007-09-27T10:06:00.000-07:00

The Vietnamese government has agreed to let central Khanh Hoa province to host Miss Universe 2008 after the pageant's organizing committee invited the country to host the event, local media reported Thursday.

To be eligible for hosting Miss Universe 2008, Vietnam should have many landscapes, good infrastructure, especially luxury hotels and a 7,500-seat stage, and spend some 15 million U.S. dollars on the event, according to Young People newspaper.

Of the money, 7 million dollars will be paid as the pageant's royalty, and the remainder spent on covering manpower and infrastructure expenses, said the committee's head, Paula Mary Shugart, who visited the country recently.

Vietnam will focus on constructing the stage, upgrading the Cam Ranh airport and some hotels in Khanh Hoa, and beautifying the province's Nha Trang sea city, venue of the pageant slated for next May.

In late May in Mexico, Miss Japan, Riyo Mori, was chosen as Miss Universe 2007.

Sources: People's Daily Online and Xinhua

PM okays Khanh Hoa’s Miss Universe hosting plan

2007-09-27T09:54:00.000-07:00

Miss Universe 2007 Riyo Mori

By Son Ha - Phuoc Ha

VietNamNet Bridge – Yesterday afternoon, September 26, Deputy PM Nguyen Sinh Hung gave Khanh Hoa Provincial People’s Committee permission to host Miss Universe 2008 in Nha Trang city.

In his decision, Deputy PM Nguyen Sinh Hung requests Khanh Hoa’s Chairman to work with related ministries and agencies to ensure success of the international beauty pageant to be held some time next summer.

Head of the Government Office Nguyen Xuan Phuc has also informed Miss Universe Organization’s Chairwoman Paula Mary Shugart of the Vietnamese government’s approval and support.

In his letter, Mr. Phuc writes, ’’The Vietnamese government thinks highly of Vietnam hosting Miss Universe 2008. This will be a great opportunity for Vietnam to promote her country and people all over the world.”

The government’s decision made yesterday was happily received by Khanh Hoa officials. “I personally had a sleepless night yesterday,” said Le Xuan Than, Vice Chairman of Khanh Hoa People’s Committee.

According to Mr. Than, there are now many things Khanh Hoa needs to do to prepare for the event. After the contract with Miss Universe Organization is signed, a steering committee will be established to supervise the construction of a new 7,500-seat stage and upgrading of Cam Rang Airport, among other things.

As for Doctor Doan Thi Kim Hong, Head of Hoan Vu Joint Stock, the unit directly in charge of hosting Miss Universe 2008, she said having pursued the plan for the past 2 years, she was “very happy, moved” and couldn’t “help crying” when she received the news.

Ms. Hong said at the beginning of October, a delegation from Hoan Vu would fly to New York to work on a contract with Miss Universe Organization, pay US$7million for copyrights, and settle other issues.

“The organization committee will then make an official announcement about Vietnam hosting Miss Universe 2008,” added she. Regarding many people’s concern that Khanh Hoa would find it very difficult to build a big stage in the Lo River Tourism Zone within less than a year, Ms. Hong said Panama did the same thing when it hosted Miss Universe 2003.

Source: Vietnam Net Bridge

Miss International pageant features student contestant

2007-09-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

By Kellie Geist

Media Credit: photo contributed
Ashlei's future holds hopes of becoming an FBI agent.

While the rest of us will spend the next couple weeks going to classes and work, Ashlei Sothard will be hanging out in Mahé in the Seychelles off the east coast of Africa. But she won't be lounging poolside - Sothard will be representing the U.S. in the 36th Annual Miss International Beauty Pageant.

"I was on stage at the Miss Kentuckiana Pageant when they told me I'd been selected to go," she said. "It was really exciting."

One of just 44 contestants from around the world, Sothard, a senior criminal justice major, will spend 10 days posing for photo shoots and strutting her stuff for the Oct. 13 worldwide telecast. But her pageant career is only four years in the making.

"I started competing when I was 17 with the Miss Kentucky Teen USA pageant," Sothard said. "I've been competing ever since."

Sothard has been named Miss Kentucky Teen Model 2003, Miss Kentucky Hawaiian Tropic, Miss Kenton County 2006 and Miss Virginia Hawaiian Tropic 2007. However, she's never been in a pageant that took take her away from home, work and school for three weeks.

"A few of my professors asked why I didn't just drop for the semester," Sothard said. "But I'm all set to graduate in December, so I asked if I could take my tests before I left." She said some of her classes have online quizzes and assignments, so during her downtime in Mahé, she'll be using her laptop and new wireless card to study and keep up.

"Most of my professors were pretty cool about it," she said. "It's just such a great opportunity that they didn't want to tell me I couldn't go."

Although the 21-year-old said she's thrilled to be representing her country in the pageant, she's also a little excited about her journey to Mahé.

"My layover is in France, so I'll be in Paris for a full day by myself," she said. "That in itself is like a dream come true."

One of her outfits for the pageant is a modified Reds uniform complete with a cropped jersey, knee-length baseball pants and knee socks. "Baseball is known worldwide as America's pastime, and Cincinnati had the first professional baseball team," Sothard said in a press release. "It just seemed perfect for a national costume. Besides, it will be beautiful after it's tailored, and I add lots of rhinestones and sequins."

Sothard's pageant career has also taken her to Hawaii, New York City, Canada and Mexico. "A lot of what I enjoy (about competing) is having everything together and knowing that all of my hard work is paying off," she said.

Source: The Northerner

MTV to debut Donald Trump's 'Pageant Place' reality series October 10

2007-09-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

By Christopher Rocchio

MTV has announced Pageant Place, a new Donald Trump-produced reality series that will follow several beauty queens as they live together in a New York City apartment and represent their different crowns, will premiere Wednesday, October 10 at 10:30PM ET/PT.

Current Miss Universe Riyo Mori and Miss USA Rachel Smith as well as former Miss Teen USA Katie Blair will star in Pageant Place, which captured the beauty queens' daily lives during their respective reigns this past summer. Pageant Place's season will also eventually feature Hilary Cruz -- who was crowned Miss Teen USA 2007 last month -- moving in with Mori and Smith and adjusting to the spotlight that comes with being Blair's successor.

While the women coexisting together isn't new -- as they normally live together during their yearlong reign -- this will be the first time viewers will be invited inside to witness some royal cattiness.

In addition, The Donald -- who is co-owner of the Miss Universe Organization, which includes Miss Universe, Miss USA and Miss Teen USA -- will also make regular appearances on Pageant Place to keep the beauty queens on track and in check, similar to the way he handled the January controversy surrounding former Miss USA Tara Conner's underage drinking.

Instead of taking Conner's crown away, Trump announced she would keep her title and attend an in-patient substance abuse rehabilitation center. Conner -- now 21 years old -- will also be of part Pageant Place's cast and serve as the beauty queens' "unofficial peer advisor."

The previously announced eight-episode series is being produced via Trump Productions (which Trump launched last summer), Evolution Film & Tape, Inc. and the Miss Universe Organization.
In addition to Trump, Andy Litinsky (the former The Apprentice 2 contestant that Trump hired to run his own production company last year), Miss Universe Organization president Paula Shugart and Evolution's Douglas Ross, Greg Stewart and Kathleen French will serve as executive producers.

Source: Reality TV World

Welcome to MTV''s ''Pageant Place'' - Where Being Beautiful isn''t Always Pretty

2007-09-25T09:25:00.000-07:00

NEW YORK, Sept. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- What happens when three of prettiest girls in the world become roommates? MTV''s newest reality series "Pageant Place," premiering Wednesday, October 10th at 10:30pm ET/PT, goes behind the sashes and crowns to answer that very question and shows the world what happens to beauty queens after they win. The 8-episode series follows Miss Universe Riyo Mori, Miss USA Rachel Smith and Miss Teen USA Katie Blair as they reign and live together for one year in a New York City high- rise apartment. It''s a long-held tradition of the Miss Universe Organization for title holders to room together annually and the series marks the first time viewers will get to see the girls'' home away from the spotlight.

Adding to the glamour and drama is Blair''s successor, Miss Teen USA 2007, Hilary Cruz who moves in mid-season, and former Miss USA 2006, Tara Conner, who serves as unofficial peer advisor to the beauty queens throughout the season. Dropping by to check-in and make sure they all stay on track is Donald J. Trump, co-owner of the Miss Universe Organization which produces the Miss Universe, Miss USA and Miss Teen USA beauty pageants annually. Titleholders and roomies for one year, Riyo, Rachel, Katie and Hilary are out to prove to the world that they''re more than just pretty faces. As they maintain a grueling schedule, become sudden stars and learn to temper the natural jealousies and friendships that arise, the girls have a now sober Tara to guide them away from the temptations and unrelenting attention that led to her notoriety when she was Miss USA.

The cameras show all the triumphs, fun and drama, as they deal with being plucked from obscurity and learn what it takes to be Queen. Crossing the globe to become Miss Universe, 20-year-old Riyo attempts to handle the culture shock of being so far from her home in Japan and her sick grandmother who raised her; 22-year-old Rachel struggles to step out of the shadow of her predecessor''s notorious reign and leave her own mark; in addition to weathering the challenges of a long-distance relationship with her boyfriend Josh, 19-year-old Katie prepares to relinquish her crown to 18-year-old Hilary and step out of the limelight she has grown accustomed to; and Tara, now 21- years-old, tries to rebuild a reputation that was almost destroyed during her reign and impart some crucial wisdom to her four counterparts.

Starting Wednesday, September 26th, viewers can log onto MTV.com for cast profiles, interviews and photo flipbooks; weekly episode trailers and quizzes; and the inside scoop on what it was like to film the show from the beauty queens'' personal blogs. In addition, Riyo, Rachel, Katie, Hilary and Tara will share their top beauty tips and music playlists so site visitors can learn everything from how they apply their makeup for a fashion shoot to what music they listen to when they work out. Full "Pageant Place" episodes will also be made available for download on iTunes.

"Pageant Place" is Executive Produced by Evolution Film & Tape, Inc., The Miss Universe Organization and Trump Productions. Douglas Ross, Greg Stewart and Kathleen French serve as Executive Producers for Evolution Film & Tape, Inc. Paula M. Shugart is President and Executive Producer for the Miss Universe Organization and Donald J. Trump and Andy Litinsky are Executive Producers for Trump Productions. The series is a co-production from Evolution Film & Tape, Inc. and the Miss Universe Organization. Co-Executive Producing for Evolution are Joe DeVito and Russ Heldt. Drew Tappon, Jackie French and Lauren Dolgen are the executives overseeing the project for MTV.

About MTV Networks

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom International Inc., is one of the world''s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with 100 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks are trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 80 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

About The Miss Universe Organization

The Miss Universe Organization, producers of the MISS UNIVERSE, MISS USA and MISS TEEN USA competitions, is a Donald J. Trump and NBC Universal, Inc. partnership. Utilizing its global grass roots infrastructure, the Miss Universe Organization is committed to increasing HIV/AIDS awareness and increasing awareness of breast and ovarian cancers. By forging relationships with organizations committed to research and education such as the Latino Commission on AIDS, Global Health Council, Susan G. Komen for the Cure and Gilda''s Club, the women who champion these causes during their reign are armed to impact women today. The titleholders of the Miss Universe Organization personify the combination of beauty and intelligence that defines the 21st Century.

About Evolution Film & Tape, Inc.

Since 1987, Evolution Film & Tape, Inc. has forged a reputation as a bold, innovative provider of non-fiction programming. Evolution''s productions have spanned the broadcast and cable spectrums, with commercial success and critical acclaim in virtually all formats and genres. Current productions include Disney''s long running Movie Surfers, Bravo''s outrageous The Real Housewives of Orange County, TLC''s 10 Years Younger, HGTV''s upcoming Desperate Spaces, as well as Court TV''s docu-drama, Beach Patrol. Previous programming includes MTV''s Yo Momma, VH1''s Bands Reunited, ABC Family''s teen reality hit, Switched!, TLC''s Clean Sweep, and the reality comedies, The Adam Carolla Project (TLC) and He''s a Lady (TBS), as well as Evolution''s first tele- feature, Now You See It, for Disney Channel, and the award-winning feature documentary, Camp Out (LOGO).Evolution''s highly regarded docu-soaps include Bug Juice, Totally Hoops and Totally in Tune for Disney Channel, as well as Bravo''s groundbreaking series Gay Weddings and Boy Meets Boy.

About Trump Productions, LLC

Donald J. Trump is the Chairman/CEO of Trump Productions LLC. Based in Los Angeles, Trump Productions LLC is the television production and entertainment business arm of the privately held Trump Organization. Trump Productions LLC is an Executive Producer of many network and cable television shows including six seasons of the NBC worldwide hit show, "The Apprentice," in association with Mark Burnett Productions. Another edition of the "Apprentice" featuring celebrity contestants is currently in production in NYC for an early 2008 airing on NBC. Additionally, Donald J. Trump is co-owner of the Miss Universe Organization with NBC Universal and Executive Producer of the "Miss Universe," "Miss USA" and "Miss Teen USA" Pageants.

Source: MTV and JRJ

West Africa: Grand Debut for West Africa Beauty Pageant

2007-09-25T05:06:00.000-07:00

By Ifechi Okoh - Lagos

IFECHI OKOH reports that the West Africa Beauty Pageant which is currently receiving finishing touches from the organizers is billed to be the mother of all beauty pageants in the continent.

CONVINCED that West Africa is not only blessed with mineral resources, ebony-skinned Tosin Fagbemi a world-class musician, and great sculptor has established a powerful framework for a successful first ever West Africa Beauty Pageant.

However, Fagbemi did not rely only on his zeal. He also banks on unique methods evolved to record resounding success.

Like a craftsman poised to churn out a master piece, Fagbemi eats, sleeps and wakes up, thinking of how best to prosecute successfully this project which he considers one of the best things that will ever happen in the West African sub region.

So far, preparation have reached advanced stage and have gulped good amount of money, time, creativity and energy. He has also reached out to various West African countries like Ghana, Benin Republic, Togo, Cote de vire e.t.c. for assistance.

Fagbemi disclosed that he has had useful and far reaching discussions with prospective sponsor companies and chief executive officers in some West African countries.

In Ghana, Fagbemi held fruitful discussions with the CEO of Reliance Services, Alex Kwasi Bruks who has been in the beauty pageant business for years.

The contact did not only afford him the chance of tapping from such experience and expertise. It provided him with the golden chance to meet another Ghana-based pageant management guru, Uni-African Services, headed by Mukaila Ahmed Akuamoah, whose company is celebrated for project management, advertising and research operations.

Fagbemi disclosed that Akuamoah was willing to do business with him and organizers of the first ever West Africa Beauty Pageant.

He has also held deliberation with Togo's ETS LE comporain CEO, Alex G Sossor.

Fagbemi who also oversees Fontana Blu Corporate Eatery in Surulere, recalled with satisfaction that his trip to some West African countries was a success story in all ramifications.

The initiator emphasised that a solid foundation has been laid for the project and that the success made so far will not be jeopardised.

As a result, he maintains that he has been in constant contact with all the CEO of the companies contacted earlier, reviewing and evaluating the project in line with emerging needs and interests.

Satisfied with the success recorded so far during his West African tour, Fagbemi has now turned his attention to Nigeria, where the pageant would hold. He said his efforts is beginning to yield results.

The final actualization of this project which he maintains would make a bold statement on the hidden African natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Companies contacted in Nigeria includes Guinness Nigeria Plc, Maximum Digital Ltd, the official representative of all energy drink, headed by Maxwell Wezianya, F.C. Matrix, owned by Michael Damisa, Hair Company Ltd, managed by Rita Idechen, who is well respected for her company's hair treatment wizardry.

Others include Felvin Associates headed by Okey Felix Okeke, Winco company managed by Ifeanyi Okafor, EKO Bank, City People, Acada and Network Magazines.

All these corporate concerns according to Fagbemi are poised to actualize the project amid all odds.

He maintains that with their concerted efforts to record resounding success, "God will crown our efforts".

Source: All Africa

Yendi Phillips - A PURPOSED-FILLED BEAUTY

2007-09-25T04:54:00.000-07:00

By Garfene Grandison & Janelle Nelson

Photos: Joseph Wellington

The newly crowned Miss Jamaica World, Yendi Phillips is no doubt full of joy, beauty and confidence. Despite the stigma that is attached to beauty queens, Yendi proves to be a truly genuine individual in her own right, or as the Jamaican people call her, a true "artical" queen. Just a month after beng crowned Miss Jamaica World 2007, Yendi is still feeling blessed and says her father is even more elated than she is over her winning the Miss Jamaica World pageant.

Yendi spoke to us here at TEENage about her upcoming trip to Sanya, China on November 1st, in preparation for the last day of competition on December 1st. Here's what this "beauty with a purpose" had to say:

TEENage (TA): Why did you decide to enter the Miss Jamaica World Pageant?
Yendi Phillips (YP): Not because I thought it's based on being the most beautiful. There are a lot of things I envision for Jamaica, and the Miss Jamaica World competition was a platform from which to work.

TA: What are some of the challenges you faced during the pageant?
YP: Definitely not becoming disheartened, being able to stay focused. More than anything, to continue to grow through the entire process, both socially and psychologically. Apart from that, the grooming and speech lessons were a great challenge.

TA: Were there any embarrassing moments during the competition?
YP: (Laughs). I got a wedgy in front of the three judges. but I quickly pulled it out then laughed it off.

TA: What are you doing now in preparation for the Miss World competition?
YP: I'm in the gym all day, every day (21/2 hours in the morning and an hour in the evening). It might be hard to believe, but I'm a ruffian, so I do speech and grooming lessons daily.

TA: Have you learnt any Chinese in preparation for the competition?
YP: Yes, I learned how to say thank you: 'Xiexie' and hello: 'Ni hao'. However, I will be starting Chinese lessons soon so that I might be a bit more fluent in the language.

TA: What is your daily diet like?
YP: Take notes, 'cause the Jamaican people mus' sorry fi mi (laughs). I need to have six small meals a day to keep my metabolism high. So, meal 1: breakfast, half a cup of old-fashioned oatmeal, sweetened with a half of banana, no salt, no sugar, no milk. Three hours later: meal 2. A cup of some form of fish - normally tuna or sardine, fibrous and starchy vegetables - usually sweet potato and maybe lettuce and tomato and a piece of corn. Three hours after that, I repeat the same meal. Meal four: a protein shake. Meal five: proteins and vegetable; no starchy carbs. Meal six: five egg whites. I am not allowed to consume any salt, sugar, juice of any kind or pastry, (laughing). You know how long I want a cheese patty. So Jamaica, don't feel it's an extremely glamorous life all the time.

TA: Do you see yourself as a role model?
YP: Yes, absolutely (laughs). I think I have accomplished a lot at such a young age. I can say that my name can't be called in any scandal because I'm extremely focused and I think about what I do. The sky's the limit.

TA: How do you feel knowing that many TEENage girls consider you to be their role model?
YP: I feel fine because I saw myself as a role model before. I feel extremely privileged that people look up to me.

TA: We know that your mother died a couple of years ago, but how do you think she would feel about you winning the Miss Jamaica World title?
YP: She would be very proud. I have very supportive parents.

TA: It has been rumoured that you are hosting a benefit in aid of the Hurricane Dean victims. Is there any truth to it?
YP: It's a celebrity fashion show and a fundraiser intertwined to help those affected by Hurricane Dean. It will be on the 21st of October at 6:00 pm at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel.
Present will be celebrities from all aspects of the different industries such as sports and entertainment. Designers who will be present at this benefit are Uzuri International, Carlton Brown and Nia Lis. To add to the excitement of the whole event, I will also be showcasing my wardrobe for the Miss Universe Pageant in China. Also to note, on the 20th of October there will be a book drive for libraries that were damaged during Dean. It will be tied in with my "beauty with a purpose" campaign for China.

TA: How will the money be distributed?
YP: It will be given to the respective ministries so that they can allocate the funds where they see fit.

TA: Beauty queens always try to portray an image of "Oh, I love children". Is this fake?
YP: Well, no, it isn't for me. I have taught kids from three to 18 at Edna Manley Junior Department. I think that it is important to nurture our children.

TA: Have you represented Jamaica before?
YP: Yes, I have in many respects. I remember as early as 11 years old when I travelled to Finland to represent Jamaica in a dance conference. I also represented my country in several other dance conferences. Attending school abroad [to pursue her Masters at University of Rochester in New York], in a way, was representing Jamaica.

TA: Do you think those experiences will help you in China?
YP: Of course, I think in life everything allows you to take something to the next level. I have no regrets because in everything, there is a lesson to be learnt.

TA: Will you use dance as your talent piece in the competition?
YP: (Laughs). I can't sing or act or twirl a baton, so yes, I will be dancing.

TA: Who will choreograph your dance piece?
YP: Sudanne Brown and myself. It will be a Jamaican modern dance with a little traditional music from Bob Marley and Buju Banton.

TA: What are some of the things people say to you when they see you on the streets?
YP: I hear a lot of people saying "you is a real 'artical' Miss Jamaica, down to earth, really natural and yuh a bring home di crown."

When TEENage asked the past student of St Andrew High School for Girls what advice she would give to girls who suffer from low self-esteem, Yendi had this to say: "People would never believe this, but I am one of those girls.
However, it is very important to understand how significant it is to love yourself, especially from within - you have to find the things you love and appreciate and focus on them. I also think it's important to be spiritually grounded. I am spiritually grounded and I love myself."

Yendi remains optimistic and has promised to make a supreme effort in China. "I will try my best to do as best I can to represent my country."

Source: The Jamaica Observer

Sea beauty to represent VN at Miss World

2007-09-25T04:47:00.000-07:00

Dang Minh Thu

VietNamNet Bridge – Miss Sea 2007 as well as Miss Vietnam Global 2007’s second runner-up Dang Minh Thu has recently been named by Elite Vietnam as the country’s candidate at Miss World 2007.

Elite Model Beauty Vietnam, the only agency authorized to select beauties to compete at international beauty pageants, earlier offered Miss World’s ticket to Miss Vietnam Global 2007 Ngo Phuong Lan, who turned it down in order to focus on her studies in Switzerland.

Elite Vietnam also said first runner-up in the same contest Teressa Sam was ineligible since she doesn’t speak English and has British citizenship. Miss Dang Minh Thu, on the other hand, has all it takes to represent the country at the most prestigious beauty pageant in the world.

As for Dang Minh Thu herself, she said she was very happy to know she had been selected. Asked whether competing in Miss World would give her lots of pressure, she said she would do her best.

“I think everybody will be sympathetic to me,” she added with a smile. And in order to prepare for the upcoming contest, Thu said she would have to improve her communication skills. “And I will try to help promote Vietnam so that foreign friends will learn more about traditional Vietnamese culture,” she said.

Miss Sea 2007, however, won’t be alone in her preparation efforts. Elite VN said after higher authorities approved its decision, the agency would invite experts to help Dang Minh Thu to practice and improve her performing and communication skills necessary in an international contest.

Other things such as what to wear will also be taken care of, said Elite VN’s CEO, Thuy Nga. Dang Minh Thu is 20 years of age, 1.67m in height and 50 kg in weight. Her body measurements are 87-61-90.

She is at present majoring in English at Hanoi Open University. Miss World 2007 will take place from November 1 to December 1 in Sanya, China.

Sources: VNN, TT, TP and Vietnam Net Bridge

Tupelo teen wins national title

2007-09-24T09:32:00.000-07:00

TUPELO — Gabrielle Putzeys, the daughter of Todd and Dawn Woods, attended the Miss Teen America Pageant in Nashville, Tenn., in July as Miss Oklahoma Teen American and was awarded the national title of Miss Continental Teen. With her new title, she will be making appearances nationwide throughout the next year and has won $50,000 in scholarships as well as thousands of dollars in valuable prizes. She will also have her own page on the pageant web site to spotlight her title.

Fourteen-year-old Putzyes attends Tupelo School where she is commonly known as Gabrielle Woods. She is currently involved in basketball and fast and slow pitch softball in her school’s athletic department. She also works with Karrie Flanagan at Ada Champion Cheer and Tumble on their competitive squad. Putzeys is interested in helping her community in any way possible. In the past she has actively participated in several disaster recovery efforts, including Hurricanes Charley, Rita, Jeanne, Francis and Isabel. From preparing meals to passing out fresh water. She has spent countless hours attempting to help victims regain some sense of stability within a chaotic situation. She has also worked for several years on her community Angel Tree during the holidays to help provide gifts and food to local children as well as in other volunteer situations. She is available to volunteer at events or make appearances in the area by phoning (580) 927-5982 or by e-mail at okteenamerica07@yahoo.com

Putzeys’ hobbies and interests include riding horses with friends and family, singing and listening to music of all types,, reading, attending her school’s sporting events, traveling, and of course and spending quality time with loved ones.

Her future plans include obtaining her pilot’s license at the age of 16. She dreams of serving in the armed forces while utilizing and furthering her piloting skills in hopes of eventually becoming a commercial pilot and doing what she loves for the rest of her life.

Putzeys’ platform issue is to promote the lifestyle of Random Acts of Kindness Foundation who is single handily attempting to encourage others in a worldwide movement. This non-profit organization is nice in the aspect that it does not accept donations of any kind nor does it seek out grants and best of all, it doesn’t usually cost anything to participate.

She is also convinced that the concept of “paying it forward” has astonishing results and that one random act of kindness could ultimately affect and innumerable amount of people over time. She said she hopes her program will inspire others to take the time to do kind things for others when an opportunity presents itself.

Source: Ada Evening News

Dorothy Taunyane is Miss World Tourism-Botswana

2007-09-24T07:37:00.000-07:00

LOBATSE - Dorothy Taunyane was crowned Miss World Tourism Day 2007-Botswana at a pageant held at Lotlamoreeng Junior Secondary School on Friday night.

The pageant, which attracted contestants from all over the Good Hope Sub-District, put emphasis on Botswanas vibrant tourism industry as well the countrys rich culture as two are inter-related.

The contestants paraded in traditional attire ranging from leather to leteisi, a German print cloth, before vying for another round in their evening gowns.

The contestants traded in their names for those of wild animals found in Botswana like Tshepe, Thutwa, Tholo, Kukama, Nkwe, and Nare to give the pageant an appropriate feeling.

Zodwa Ngwenya and Lorato Marumolwa were crowned second and third princess respectively.

To make it to the top five, contestants had to show their knowledge of various national issues such the pillars of vision 2016, definition of tourism and its importance to the nation.

Popular dance group, Culture Spears kept the audience on the dance floor while the presence of Joel Keitumele of Mokaragana, fame, kept the audience entertained with his jokes throughout the pageant.

The pageant was one of the activities aimed at heating the momentum for the celebrations of World Tourism Day scheduled for September 27 in Good Hope.

Theme for this years celebration is Tourism Opens Doors for Women. BOPA

Source: Botswana Press Agency

Justine Willoughby - A true fashion, beauty gem

2007-09-24T07:25:00.000-07:00

Former Pulse model Justine Willoughby at the recent supermodel reunion at Pulse's Caribbean Fashion model search held at the Hilton Kingston hotel. - Peta-Gaye Clachar/Staff Photographer

"When a (wo)man faces destiny, destiny ends and (wo)man comes into (her)his own" - Malraux

Undeniably fated to tread this path, Pulse supermodel Justine Willoughby is testament to the French cultural icon André Malraux's thoughts on embracing one's destiny. The daughter of former Jamaican beauty queen Virginia Lacroix and media personality Neville Willoughby, it was clear that Justine would end up with impeccable credentials in both departments; brains and beauty.

Subscribing to the preordained, Justine entered the Pulse Model Search in 1988 but failed to make the impact for which she was hoping. Not to be discouraged, the tenacious teen took another shot at it in 1989 and was placed second.

This subsequent tryout proved to be the charm, and fashion magnate Kingsley Cooper prepared the world to receive the 18-year-old doe-eyed beauty.

Travels

After the pageant, Justine was signed to New York's Click Modelling Agency and then moved to Wilhelmina Models while completing a variety of assignments that took her to Paris, London and even Morocco. "I got a great assignment for the French magazine Madame Figaro in Morocco. I travelled there for the shoot via Paris and it was a great experience, like being in a glamorous film. I was somewhat nervous, but overall, I enjoyed the experience."

Her engaging eyes and thick mane, coupled with her island girl flavour, gave her a distinctive edge in the highly competitive arena. "Many photographers and clients were very intrigued to hear that I am Jamaican. A lot of people in the industry had travelled to Jamaica on shoots and had loved the island and its people," said the bronzed beauty. Several editorials and campaigns later, including work for magazines like French Marie Claire, Seventeen, and John Frieda, Justine wanted to explore other facets of her destiny.

In 1995, the 23-year-old model entered the Miss Jamaica Universe Pageant. She brought home her family's third Miss Jamaica Universe crown (both mother and aunt had won). Donating a portion of her prize money to the Maxfield Park Children's Home, Justine undertook additional community development projects and contributed significantly to the Miss Jamaica Universe Children's Fund, fulfilling her role as a truly outstanding ambassador for Jamaica. After the pageant ended, the 5'9" beauty headed to the Miss Universe Pageant in Namibia where she was well received. On her return, she flew to Martinique to participate in the Miss Caribe pageant where her gorgeous face, matching effervescence and intelligence ensured her a spot in the top three. The runway soon beckoned once more, and she headed off to New York where she had a very successful season doing several major editorials and catalogues.

Over the years, Justine has enjoyed success with a wide variety of modelling assignments which have taken her to several parts of the globe, including France, England, America, Germany, Holland and South Africa. For her, this turned out to be a truly enriching experience and the most rewarding aspect of the job. "I had always been interested in fashion and modelling as a teenager and I was keen to pursue a career in modelling. This has given me the opportunity to see the world, meet interesting people and experience different cultures," Justine admitted.

Gave up the limelight

Though attracted to the lure of the jet-set life, Justine eventually gave up the limelight of the runway to return home. Since retiring from active modelling, Justine followed other passions and pursued a B.A. in French and philosophy (Hons) from the University of the West Indies. She now works as a journalist in the television and print media, as well as on public relations projects.

Now a full-fledged member of the media fraternity, Justine reflects on her career which was quite different from what modelling is today: "There is competition coming from personalities outside of the mainstream modelling industry. Actresses and music superstars such as Scarlett Johansson, Halle Berry and Beyoncé are constantly on the major magazine covers and many designer and beauty campaigns."

However, she asserts that keeping a positive outlook in an industry that is described by many as fickle, cut-throat and aggressive is mandatory. "Realise that even though you might not get the job, it is not because of your lack of beauty, but rather a specific look that the client wants. All models should have a professional attitude; be on time, courteous and aware of what the client expects."

Source: Jamaica Gleaner News

Company busy selecting beauties for int’l pageants

2007-09-24T07:18:00.000-07:00

Miss Hai Duong Tran Thi Huong Giang

VietNamNet Bridge – As the season of international beauty contests is approaching, Elite Vietnam, the only agency authorised to select candidates, is burning the candle at both ends to come up with names to represent the country.

"Besides Miss International and Miss Asia, we will also select candidates for Miss World, Miss Earth, Miss International Tourism, etc,” said Thuy Nga, Elite Vietnam’s CEO. The names of the Vietnamese representatives for the upcoming Miss International, Miss Asia and Miss Young International 2007 have all been announced.

They are Pham Thi Thuy Duong, Tran Thi Huong Giang, and Nguyen Ai Chau, respectively. But the ticket to the most anticipated beauty pageant in the world, Miss World, is yet to have an owner.

We haven’t decided upon the candidate for Miss World 2007 yet, said Thuy Nga, who lately has been bombarded by questions regarding which one of numerous eligible candidates, including Miss Vietnam Global 2007, as well as the first and second runners-up in the same contest, will have that privilege.

According to Elite Vietnam, the selection process isn’t at all easy, since the decision doesn’t just depend on the agency itself, but also on lots of paperwork. “Sometimes the company wants to choose a particular girl but due to procedure-related difficulties, it has to select somebody else,” said an insider.

But when candidates have been selected, Elite Vietnam says it never puts pressure on them. “Instead, we only encourage them to do their best. And I often tell the girls that since they are good enough to be selected, they should believe in themselves,” said Thuy Nga.

The three beauties heading for Miss International, Miss Asia and Miss Young International are quite confident. Miss Hai Duong Tran Thi Huong Giang, who will take part in Miss Asia 2007, for instance, said, “I think at any beauty contest, our candidates have a right to be confident and hopeful.

With my knowledge of English, I can talk with foreign friends and introduce the Vietnamese country and people to them.” Miss Asia 2007 will take place from September 30 to October 28 in Hong Kong; Miss Young International 2007, from October 9-29 in Taiwan; and Miss International, also from September 30 to October 28 in Tokyo and Beijing.

Source: Vietnam Net Bridge

Winners Cite Broken Promises in Pageants

2007-09-24T07:08:00.000-07:00

Ashley Wood, Miss South Carolina 2004, attends the Wharton School. She has not been able to collect her pageant scholarships. (Jessica Kourkounis for The New York Times)

By JENNIFER 8. LEE

When Ashley Wood was crowned Miss South Carolina in 2004, she thought her title came not only with a tiara and a shot at Miss America, but also a $20,000 state scholarship and $5,000 national pageant scholarship.

Ms. Wood said Miss America scholarship winners “encounter one obstacle after another.”

This fall, Ms. Wood entered the Wharton School, the business-studies arm of the University of Pennsylvania. But she has yet to receive any of that scholarship money, having been locked in a dispute with the Miss South Carolina pageant for more than two years.

“You are talking about an organization that is promoting itself as the largest scholarship provider for women in the world,” Ms. Wood, 26, said of the Miss America Organization. “When contestants try to collect their funds, they encounter one obstacle after another.”

Ms. Wood said she was told that she would not get the $20,000 for winning the Miss South Carolina pageant in part because her two local pageants had not paid her $950 that she had won from them (Ms. Wood said that after she enrolled in classes, one group reneged on payment and the other dodged her when she tried to collect). In turn, because she did not receive the state money, the national pageant sent her a letter in June saying she was ineligible for the $5,000 from it, even though the deadline to use her national scholarship had not passed. “It’s like a game of gotcha,” she said. “What is very clear to me is that the goal is to not give out the scholarships if at all possible.”

Ms. Wood’s is among the most prominent disputes in recent years involving the pageant system, which endures — albeit diminished — since network television dropped the Miss America Pageant in 2004. But there have long been complaints that the 1,200 local and 52 state pageants run under the aegis of the national pageant often do not distribute scholarships to winners. The contestants say their difficulties collecting their money surprise them, given that the Miss America system promotes itself as a scholarship pageant rather than a beauty pageant, unlike its main rival, the Miss USA contest.

Interviews with contestants across the country describe a Miss America system in which local pageant directors do not return telephone calls and e-mail messages for months, local competitions close down before scholarships are distributed, and the fine print in contracts creates hurdles. Local winners across the country have threatened legal action, and some have taken it.

Pageant organizers at each level of the Miss America system say that such problems are the exception and that they occur because contestants miss deadlines or do not dot all the i’s and cross all the t’s to get paid.

In a statement, the Miss America Organization, based in Linwood, N.J., said: “While it is unimaginable that scholarships, which are the heart and soul of Miss America, could or would be wrongly withheld from pageant participants, we are looking into these allegations. We have definitive procedures in place to vet disputes and guarantee state organizations stand behind their scholarship agreements with the Miss America Organization and those to whom scholarships are promised.”

The statement added, “The Miss America Organization is absolutely unaware of any young lady that has ever been denied payment of scholarships after properly following the application process.”

Gail M. Sanders, comptroller of the Miss South Carolina contest, declined to discuss Ms. Wood’s case but said, “To my knowledge there is not a single contestant in the state of South Carolina who has abided by the rules who has not been paid.”

Carrie Davis Cousar, Miss South Carolina 1992, sued the pageant and settled a short time later; the terms were not disclosed. Last year, the South Carolina secretary of state investigated the Miss South Carolina competition and fined it $2,000 in March for not having its financial papers in order.

Pageant organizers and contestants at the local and state levels describe a system plagued by weak oversight and run largely by 100,000 volunteers. The local competitions, franchised by the 52 state pageants, have no legal ties to the national organization, though they feed contestants into the national pageant, which moved to Las Vegas from Atlantic City last year and will be broadcast on the TLC cable channel in January. And the local pageants vary in how well they are administered, contestants and administrators say.

Safiya Songhai, Miss Five Boroughs of New York in 2004, said she struggled to get the $1,000 scholarship she won. “I had been warned by a girl who won before me that I’m not going to see that money,” said Ms. Songhai, who said that in contrast, she had no problem collecting $5,000 as a runner-up to Miss District of Columbia in 2001 and 2003.

She filed and won a case by default in small claims court in Manhattan after the director of the Miss Five Boroughs Scholarship Pageant failed to respond to messages left over five months. When she still had not received her scholarship, she took her story to a local television station. She was paid within two days of the broadcast of her account, she said. The organizer of the now-disbanded pageant did not return calls for comment.

“Basically, if I hadn’t gone after them, I wouldn’t have gotten my money,” Ms. Songhai said. “There is no real checks and balances to make sure the contestants get their money.” She said that competing in Miss Five Boroughs was fun, but added, “They are disorganized and they are bad with money management.”

Saidah Story won a $1,000 scholarship as Miss Inland Empire 2003 in California, but her mother, Renee Wickman, said the pageant director informed her that there would be no scholarship.

“Instead of the scholarship, she was like, ‘You can take these gowns,’ ” Ms. Wickman said. The pageant folded after that year. Bob Arnhym, president of the Miss California Pageant, said the Miss Inland Empire director moved to Canada because her mother had fallen ill, but had notified the state she had given Ms. Story “the full value of the scholarship.”

Despite contractual agreements, the state organizations say they have only limited enforcement of local scholarships.

“Is there something that the state can do? In short, the answer is really no,” said Paul Brown, executive director of Miss New York. “While we require that they maintain scholarship bank accounts while they are in existence, we have no control over what happens to that,” he said. “The only control that we have is over them maintaining a legal franchise.”

In theory, state pageants could take local pageants to court, but “that legal battle is prohibitive financially,” Mr. Brown said. “It’s not worth doing that for a scholarship which is $1,000.”

Still, state-level executives will step in at times. Sherry Rush, the executive director of the Miss Maryland competition, said the organization tried to help Ashley Windle, Miss Chesapeake Bay 2006, and Kristy Chance, Miss Prince George’s County 2004, after they were unable to collect scholarship money from their local pageants. They have yet to be paid, however.

Source: The New York Times

Babe hot on Hawko's heels

2007-09-24T04:58:00.000-07:00

SHE may not be a household name just yet, but Blue Mountains babe Danielle Byrnes is about to follow in the high-heels of Jennifer Hawkins and Erin McNaught and hit the international pageant stage. / The Daily Telegraph

SHE may not be a household name just yet, but Blue Mountains babe Danielle Byrnes is about to follow in the high-heels of Jennifer Hawkins and Erin McNaught and hit the international pageant stage.

The Zoo Weekly regular jets to Japan next Saturday to represent her homeland in the Miss International contest.

With just 18 months modelling under her size 8 belt, the 20-year-old stunner is hoping the quest will provide a boost to her career locally.

The comp is widely regarded as the fourth largest beauty pageant in the world - one step below the Miss Universe comp which catapulted Hawkins to fame three years ago.

Could a stint on a travel show be next for the globetrotting up-and-comer?

Source: The Courier Mail

Ms. Earth '07 brings Bohol across world

2007-09-23T06:38:00.000-07:00

As the province will host five of the 90 candidates of Miss Earth 2007, the affair would give a chance for Bohol eco-tourism be featured over at least 35 television networks in different countries.

The Miss Earth 2007 pageant will cover activities from October 25 to November 2.

The Carousel Productions, Inc. proposed to the provincial government that by hosting the candidates, Bohol's environmental advocacy will get international mileage and will be featured as one of the tourist destinations in the Philippines.

Bohol will accommodate four Miss Earth delegates and Miss Philippines-Earth for two days.

The telecast over ABS-CBN at 9:30 in the evening of November 11 will be replayed in 35 countries on Star World Channel, the largest cable television network in Asia and the Middle East and over 26 countries through The Filipino Channel and some participating countries in their local television stations.

The Miss Earth delegates will visit different Asian countries to see the highlights on peace, culture, environmental issues and tourism industry.

They will also visit the different tourist spots in the Philippines and, at the same time, experience the taste of the Filipino culture and hospitality.

There will also be a search for "Li'l Earth Angels" among boys aging seven to ten years old at the different malls and schools in different municipalities, environmental campaigns against global warming in schools, tree-planting, clean-up drive, and waste segregation, among others.

Special events include fashion shows showcasing swimsuit, long gown, talent and national costume competitions in different establishments. (AV-PGMA)

Source: The Bohol Chronicle

Vogue, local council organise beauty pageant in Nadur Castelain

2007-09-23T06:26:00.000-07:00

Last year's winners of the Miss Model of the World (Malta)

Vogue Model Management, in collaboration with Nadur council and mayor Dr Chris Said, will be organising the annual Miss Model of the World (Malta) and Best Male Model of the World (Malta) 2007 on October 20 at the Mnarja Band Club Theatre in Nadur. Thirty contestants will be competing for two prestigious titles which will crown two new winners to represent Malta at the international finals in China and Turkey.

The Cultural Office of Gozo is also contributing to the event by arranging the whole stage set-up for the night.

The Nadur council and Dr Said, together with MBC Theatre, gladly agreed to hold this event in Gozo, being the theatre's tenth anniversary. In the past, two Gozitans have won this event - Joseph Ellis in 2004, and Katrin Mari Pavia in 2005, who went on to place 15th out of 60 contestants from all over the world, and won the Miss Model in Evening Gown award.

The MBC Theatre will be transformed into a marvellous theatre for the night bringing together 30 contestants to parade in swimsuits and evening wear. Sponsors include Peacocks from Arkadia, Emporio and Classico, Orly Nail Care, Cefai Formal Wear, hair by Miriam of O'Hair, make-up by Covederm and make-up artist Lorna Mugliett. Downtown Hotel will be providing the contestants' lodging for the final night while Gozo Glass will be sponsoring the winners' trophies.

The gala night will also include various fashion shows and hair shows featuring the latest collections. For more information on tickets, call the local council, or 9944-5783, or e-mail vogue@onvol.net.

Source:Times of Malta

Miss Pakistan World 2007: Just in-case you missed Mahleej Sarkari

2007-09-23T05:02:00.000-07:00

Just in-case you missed Miss Pakistan World 2007, we have the video in two parts below, the 5th annual Miss Pakistan World took place in Toronto, Canada.

25 year old Mahleej Sarkari from Karachi Pakistan won Miss Pakistan World 2007; people came from all around the world to participate.

Mahleej Sarkari will now be competing for the third largest pageant in the world: Miss Earth.

Miss Pakistan World 2007 Part 1, Part 2

Source: Product Reviews

Tadashi Shoji – New York Fashion Week Spring 2008

2007-09-22T07:13:00.000-07:00

Hilary Cruz (Miss Teen USA 2007, left), Rachel Smith (Miss USA 2007, second from left) and Tara Conner (Miss USA 2006) were three of the numerous celebrities hitting the shows this season. Photo by Christopher Bourne

By Christopher Bourne

L.A. based designer Tadashi Shoji, in his second appearance at New York Fashion Week on Sept. 12, impressed with his latest show inspired by the colors and textures of the ocean.

This theme made for a quite aesthetically pleasing show, with such colors as Aegean blue, coral, oyster, and bamboo dominant throughout. Coolly elegant cocktail dresses and evening wear made extensive use of ruffles and folds that evoked the sea in every facet of their design.

This show left no doubt as to why Tadashi is the go-to designer for such celebrities as Tyra Banks and Halle Berry, as well as the Miss Universe and Miss USA pageants. Practically speaking, most of these dresses would perhaps be out of place anywhere else other than Hollywood red carpets and beauty competitions. Still, on this day, the overall effect was quite memorable.

Source: Meniscus Magazine

Roger Gary, Facts and Roses team up for fashion 'xpo'

2007-09-22T07:05:00.000-07:00

New York-based Guyanese designer/producer Roger Gary and the Facts and Roses husband and wife team Trevor Rose and Michelle Cole-Rose are the brains behind next Easter's Guyana Fashion Xpo (GFX).

The three well-known designers, who were conspicuously absent from last month's Guyana Fashion Weekend, plan to make a bold statement with this event, which they say will be an annual one. It is billed for the Easter weekend at Splashmin's Resort, which in recent years has been host to the Miss Guyana Universe Pageant.

According to a statement from the organizers, they also plan to use the Demerara Harbour Bridge as the "world's longest runway" as part of the promotional package for the GFX. The organizers say they foresee 100 male and female models beginning their catwalk strut on the West Demerara and modelling their way across the 1.25 miles bridge to culminate on the East Demerara. "Plans are in motion," they say, "for a representative of the Guinness Book of Records to be present so that the event can be officially recorded."

Meanwhile, as regards the main event, the organizers say there will be a specially constructed 80 ft catwalk at Splashmin's. "Designers will present their collections on a casted array of local, regional and international models strutting on the spectacular GFX 80 ft. long runway, especially created for the affair and which features a natural fresh waterfall backdrop."

Running conjointly with the runway segment, will be the GFX Fashion Boutique, offering opportunities to display and sell a wide variety of designer merchandise. The local, regional and international press will be on hand to capture the event, the release said.

The organizers said GFX had a successful preview at the Umana Yana in March (during Cricket World Cup) and was expected to highlight "the talent and skills of designers, models, stylists, hair and make-up artists, creating a sizzling weekend of fashion unparalleled in the southern Caribbean." It is expected that whilst the event would bring businesses and services ancillary to the industry from Guyana and the region together, it will also serve to propel Guyana as the region's new fashion and manufacturing hub.

"Set against the backdrop of its lush rainforest, ma-jestic rivers, soothing lakes, natural wildlife and an eco-friendly environment, Guyana will showcase its culture and style to the world as it plays host to the first annual Guy-ana Fashion Xpo," the release said.

Source: Stabroek News

A glitzy eve

2007-09-22T06:49:00.000-07:00

Sayali Bhagat, Neha and Anuj Rakyan (TOI Photo)

The jewel in her crown...

What can make a beautiful woman more beautiful? A jewel-studded crown, that’s what! On Friday evening, Gitanjali, in association with the Miss India Asia Beauty Pageant 2007, hosted the crowning ceremony at a suburban venue where Miss India Asia 2007 Neha was crowned by Anuj Rakyan from Gitanjali.

Adding glitter to the glam was former Miss India Sayali Bhagat, glowing in a shimmering blue sari. Other beauty queens present included Miss Sri Lanka Jacqueline Fernandez and Miss Afghanistan Vida Samadzai, the latter who was seen talking to Vasant Bhandari.

Deepti Varghese seemed to be in jovial mood as she caught up with Dipannita Sharma and her sister, while DJs Akbar Sami and Akhtar were certainly in the groove. Aryan Vaid was spotted after quite a while. All in all, a glittering night.

Source: The Times of India

Miss World Bikini

2007-09-22T06:41:00.000-07:00

World Bikini Model International and Miss European Tourism 2007 were held in Malta with more than 55 contestants coming from all over the World.

The event was held at the Dragonara Casino, St. Julian's and was organized by Catwalk Productions International which is the only organization in Malta holding an International License to organize these two International events.

Source: Di-ve

Khanh Hoa submits Miss Universe hosting plan

2007-09-21T21:14:00.000-07:00

Image of the future 7,500 stage

VietNamNet Bridge – Yesterday, September 19, Khanh Hoa Province People’s Committee submitted to the PM and Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism its plan to host Miss Universe 2008 in Nha Trang City.

According to Le Xuan Than, Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee, Hoan Vu Joint Stock Company will be directly responsible for organizing the event.

This means that Hoan Vu itself will pay the US$15million necessary to host the pageant (US$7million for copyrights and the rest is organization costs), as well as ensure adequate infrastructure that includes a 7,500-seat theatre.

Mr. Than said Hoan Vu would build the stage on an area of 7 ha within the Nha Trang Tourism and Entertainment Zone owned by Hoan Cau Nha Trang Ltd. Construction work will start as soon as the PM okays the plan.

Foreign experts will also be sent to Nha Trang to help carry out the project. Hoan Vu Joint Stock is made up of three companies - CIAT, Viet CEO, and Hoan Cau Nha Trang Ltd.

Hoan Vu submitted its hosting plan to provincial authorities right after Miss Universe Organization’s Chairwoman Paula Mary Shugart sent her letter to PM Nguyen Tan Dung, Culture Minister Hoang Tuan Anh and Khanh Hoa Chairman Vo Lam Phi expressing her wish to see Nha Trang host Miss Universe next year in August.

Source: Vietnam Net Bridge

Lara fights trafficking with MTV EXIT

2007-09-21T18:24:00.000-07:00

By IndiaFM News Bureau

Lara Dutta fights the social issue of human trafficking. She is the brand ambassador for MTV EXIT, (End Exploitation, and Trafficking). She was asked to talk about trafficking and now features in the documentary called ‘SOLD’ which deals with human trafficking. MTV India will screen the documentary on September 22 at 1900 hrs IST.

“I was previously working on female infanticide with the UNFPA and trafficking of brides. It is after the approach from MTV that I explored further into the details of human trafficking” says Lara. On asking about trafficking in the film industry, she says, “There are a lot of people who come from far of places with the desire to become actors, but it’s not the only field where trafficking takes place. There should be agencies that give the right guidance to aspiring actors.”

“Being a celebrity I can reach a larger audience and I am glad I can use my status to promote this social cause and reach people” states Lara.

Source: India FM

Here she is -- it's Miss Internet 2008

2007-09-21T12:07:00.000-07:00

Mathew Ingram, today at 1:05 PM EDT

Do John and Scott Ferber know what they're getting into? According to a recent press release that came floating into my inbox, they've decided to start something called the Miss Internet Beauty Pageant. Aspiring beauty contest winners (and we know there are probably millions of them out there, alas) can send in a couple of photos and/or video of themselves, and the winner gets chosen by the Internet! Or rather, gets chosen by whoever decides to go and vote for someone at the website, and you can apparently vote for as many contestants as you want, twice a day, and as many times as you like.

So, all you aspiring Miss Internet 2008 winners -- all you have to do is convince enough of your friends, or even complete strangers, to come and click on your photo. Or, you could always take a quick course in Java or C++, and write a script that would effectively accomplish the same thing! The choice is up to you. And apparently you don't have to answer any skill-testing questions, like the one that threw Miss Teen South Carolina off so badly awhile ago. You stand to win "up to" $25,000 in cash and prizes.

It's no secret that the idea of an Internet-voting contest is fraught with problems. As evidence, I submit the story of Time magazine's Person of the Century contest, which came within a hair of being won by Mustafa Kamal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey (thanks to a blockbuster campaign by Turkish supporters) as well as the People magazine contest in 1998 to find the most beautiful people in the world, which was won by one of Howard Stern's sidekicks, a little person who called himself Hank the Angry Drunken Dwarf.

It seems likely, however, that John and Scott Ferber know exactly what they're doing: the two brothers were behind the rise of Advertising.com in the 1990s, which was eventually sold to America Online in 2004 for $434-million in cash. The brothers stayed at AOL for a time, but then took what the company described as some "much needed time off" and developed a site called Guess Now, which lets you guess the outcome of future events and then pays you cash if you guess correctly.

When you go to the Miss Internet Pageant site, it redirects you to Guess Now's servers, and to become a contestant you have to open a Guess Now account. Coincidence? I think not. Interestingly enough, the Miss Internet Pageant says if you can't upload photos of yourself, you can email them to this address: steve@vandelayindustries.com. Van Delay Industries is the name of the fictitious latex company that George Costanza worked for on Seinfeld.

Source: The Globe and Mail

Dethroned beauty queen defends her actions, points finger at accusers

2007-09-21T12:05:00.000-07:00

Targets another contestant's mom, who works for the DA

By Sylvie Belmond belmond@theacorn.com

Miss Ventura County 2005, who was dethroned the same year and later accused by pageant organizers of theft and perjury, fought back Friday at a press event organized by her attorney.

Hilary Gushwa, then a Moorpark resident, lost her title and the right to wear her crown when pageant officials learned she was married at the time she participated in the local competition.

Gushwa says she is the target of an "angry beauty pageant mother who is upset that her daughter lost a competition."

"I won Miss Ventura County 2005. I applied for the competition in August of 2004 and every representation I made in my application was true and accurate," Gushwa said Friday.

Records show Gushwa got married in Las Vegas on Oct. 10, 2004. The pageant took place Oct. 23, 2004.

Pageant rules dictate that entrants "must never have been married, never had a marriage annulled, or been pregnant."

The Ventura County Scholarship Association, which organizes the pageant, sued Gushwa for $5,000 in small claims court earlier this year, alleging that she knowingly and fraudulently misrepresented herself as single in order to compete. The civil court awarded the association $3,121 in July. Gushwa paid the debt.

Pageant organizers filed a police report in August, accusing Gushwa of grand theft and alleging she committed perjury during the civil trial.

In self -defense

Last week Gushwa, speaking outside her attorney's office in Ventura, refuted the allegations. Along with her attorney, Ron Bamieh, she pointed the finger at Jackie Youngern, a committee member of the Ventura County Scholarship Association.

Bamieh maintains Gushwa committed no malfeasance when she accepted the title, and said the driving force behind the allegations is Youngern, is the mother of another 2005 pageant contestant.

He alleged that Youngern used her professional credentials as an investigative assistant with the Ventura County district attorney's office to intimidate witnesses and solicit clerks at government offices to obtain records.

"It's beneath her, it should not be done," said Bamieh, who had worked on several unrelated cases with Youngern when he was employed at the DA's office.

Gushwa said her family has received disturbing phone calls and been harassed since the filing of a police report made the allegations public.

On the subject of the missing crown- actually a tiara- Gushwa said she had given it to a seriously ill young girl after the small claims court ruled she didn't have to return it.

The former beauty queen also repeated her earlier statement that she does not remember getting married. She said she went to Las Vegas with her then-boyfriend, David Scanlan, just to visit his parents before the mid-October pageant.

Gushwa said that during that period of time she was taking prescription medication and also drinking alcohol, and that her ability to make sound decisions was affected.

"My memory of much of the evening where I was supposedly married in a Las Vegas wedding chapel is hazy at best," Gushwa said. "Those who've made statements to the contrary are ignorant of the facts or are motivated by something other than the truth."

Gushwa said she and Scanlan broke up shortly after the Las Vegas trip.

"I never even told my family that I was married . . . because I never believed or thought for one moment that I was," she said.

Her attorney said the marriage was nullified early in 2005 by the state of Nevada and that under the law, the marriage never existed.

Who keeps the crown "We're just trying to get Hilary to do the right thing and return the crown," said Sandy Bryan, executive director of the scholarship association. If the crown was indeed given to a girl who is ill, the VCSA may let her keep it, Bryan said.

"We're not trying to be mean to little girls; we just don't know the circumstances," she said.

According to Lori Barondess, who serves on the pageant committee with Youngern, said the organization, not Youngern, initiated the small claims court proceedings and filed the police report.

In addition, Youngern's daughter's role in the competition was not significantly affected by Gushwa's actions because the other woman finished third, not second.

"Only the first runnerup was directly affected, since she was not able to compete (as Miss Ventura County) in the Miss California competition because there was not enough time to prepare her," Barondess said.

Pageant organizers said they learned about the marriage the week before Gushwa was to represent the county in the state competition.

"The sister of the groom called the head of the Miss California pageant to say Gushwa was married," said Barondess, adding that she and Scanlan's mother provided photos and details of the wedding.

Youngern refused to comment for this story. An internal DA's office investigation may take place to determine whether Youngern had in any way abused her authority.

Gushwa said she does not desire revenge or retaliation. "It was our hope that Ms. Youngern would learn from her mistake as Ms. Gushwa has from hers," Bamieh said.

Gushwa began to compete in pageants at age 16, and created Heart2Heart, a nonprofit organization that promotes bone marrow drives to help leukemia patients.

She said she hoped the widely publicized allegations will not affect the group's ability to raise awareness and money for the National Marrow Donor Program.

She has been a national spokesperson for the City of Hope and earned a Volunteer of the Year award from the Moorpark Chamber of Commerce.

According to her website, Gushwa won the 2007 Miss Ventura County International pageant, an event organized by Crowning Glory Productions.

Source: Simi Valley Acorn

Miss Bulgaria '06 Wins Title in Balkan Beauty Ambassador Pageant

2007-09-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

Miss Bulgaria 2006 Slavena Vatova (far L) made it to the top 3 at the Balkan Beauty Ambassador Pageant this year. Photo by Visages Models

Miss Bulgaria 2006 Slavena Vatova won the second runner-up title in the Balkan Beauty Ambassador 2007 pageant, which took place in Greece during the week.

The beauty pageant is held for a third consecutive year.

Balkan Beauty Ambassador 2007 is not just a beauty contest, but a specific philosophical and cultural event, which emphasizes positive Balkan's values and celebrate Balkan people's energy and creativity, the organizers said.

With the opportunity of this event, the organizers intend to promote the unification of the Balkan countries their cultures, religions and their potential economic and tourist development.

The winners in the competition will promote humanitarian and environmental values and purposes

This year BBA was dedicated to UNESCO's action for helping Balkan women in general.

Albanian Beauty Ambassador 2007 On Time Concept Albania is the organizer of the "Albanian Beauty Ambassador 2007" show, where two contestants will be selected as the representatives from Albania, in the great event of "Balkan Beauty Ambassador 2007".

Source: Sofia News Agency

Indian actress Priyanka Chopra injures herself during filming

2007-09-21T11:38:00.000-07:00

MUMBAI, India: Popular Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra tore a muscle while filming a stunt for an action-packed role in her new movie, a newspaper reported Friday.

In the film Chopra plays a bodyguard skilled in an ancient Sikh martial art, wielding a sword and a 'kirpan,' or dagger, traditionally carried by followers of the Sikh religion.

"I was doing a somersault when I felt something give way inside my rib cage," The Times of India quoted her as saying. "I've apparently suffered a tear in my abs."

The former Miss World is among the few Indian actresses to take on action roles and do her own stunts.

Although she was advised to rest, her busy schedule did not permit a break for the next few weeks — she has dance scenes and more stunts to film.

Today in Culture

An exhibition in London explores 'The Changing Face of Childhood'

'The Age of Rembrandt': starring patrons of a Golden Age

Movie Review: Sean Penn's 'Into the Wild'

"It's so painful. I've no choice but to continue," she said in the newspaper interview. "I don't know how I'll manage."

Chopra said she was enjoying shooting for the role in the thriller, "Drona," and has been announcing: "I'm armed and dangerous" every time she arrives on the set.

Popular actor Abhishek Bachchan, who plays a superhero, and Kay Kay Menon, who is the villain, co-star in the film.

Chopra made her Bollywood debut five years ago and has starred in several hit movies. She played a mob member in her recent movie "Don," and last year she was the female lead in India's first superhero movie, "Krrish."

Although advised rest, her busy schedule did not permit a break for the next few weeks with dance scenes and more stunts to film.

"It's so painful. I've no choice but to continue," she told the newspaper. "I don't know how I'll manage."

Source: International Herald Tribune

Priyanka Chopra's father gets bail

2007-09-21T11:36:00.000-07:00

Indore, Sep 21 : A local court today released Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra's father Ashok Chopra on a bail of Rs one lakh in connection with a case lodged by her former private secretary Prakash Jaju.

Mr Chopra appeared before Judicial Magistrate V S Mubel, who fixed September 26 as the next date for hearing.

Mr Chopra's counsel Chandrashekhar Raikwar was present in the court.

Jaju, a resident of Mhow near Indore, had lodged a police compliant that underworld don Chhota Shakeel had made threatening calls on Priyanka's behalf over a dispute related to financial dealings.

However, he moved the court when no action was taken in this regard.

Meanwhile, Priyanka and her father approached the Madhya Pradesh High Court's Indore bench seeking stay in the case. The High Court's Indore Bench had acquitted Priyanka from the charges recently.

However, a case against her father was continuing in a lower court.

Meanwhile, Priyanka had filed a case against Jaju in Mumbai.

Source: New Kerala

Mansion awaits the happy couple

2007-09-21T07:18:00.000-07:00

Tennis star Paradorn Srichaphan and his Miss Universe fianc้e Natalie Glebova yesterday bought a luxurious Bt40-million house in Bangkok's On Nut area to move into after they get married on November 29. Published on September 21, 2007

The star went on to say that his 438-square-metre contemporary-style house stood next to a lake at the Prime Nature Villa estate. The Bt40-million price tag does not include the cost of interior decoration, which will be completed by mid November, ready for the couple to move in. Paradorn promised to invite the press to his house-warming party.

As a perfect husband to be, Paradorn said he had left it up to Natalie to decorate the four-bedroom and four-bathroom house as she pleased. However, he said, the house would be decorated in earth tones and will be equipped with a Jacuzzi and a gym. He said he had also bought the 240-sqm behind the house to build a swimming pool and garage.

Paradorn said that though they initially intended to move to Pattaya, they changed their minds when they saw this house. It had such good atmosphere and was so accessible, he explained. He said they were going ahead with their plans to a sporting complex in Pattaya.

He went on to explain that preparations for the wedding were nearly 70 per cent complete, and that the invitation cards were in the process of being printed. Revealing that guests at their wedding included tennis players Tommy Haas and Nicolas Kiefer, Paradon he reserved the right to prohibit reporters from the reception because he did not want senior guests to be disturbed.

He said he would also be inviting other tennis aces during the Thailand Open matches.

The wedding would comprise of a traditional ceremony in the morning attended only by senior guests and close friends, and an interview-and-photo session with the media at 4pm. The reception will be invites only, he added.

Paradon said publications wishing to carry the news the next day would be sent wedding pictures, while magazines that worked on a later deadline would be sent the photos later.

Natalie said that she was excited about her wedding and that she loved her new home because it was surrounded by nature. She added that her only preparation for the wedding was staying healthy by eating good food and exercising. She also said that she had four dresses planned for the day - one for the morning ceremony, one for the press conferences, one for the reception and another to dance in.

The press conference, with Suttipong "Heart" Tadpitakkul presiding as master of ceremonies, was held yesterday at Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel from 10.30am to noon. Singer Paiboon "Pun" Kietkhiewkaew sang "Home" in dedication to the couple prior to the press conference.

Mayuree Sukyingcharoenwong

Source: The Nation

Vietnam will meet Miss Universe requirements: official

2007-09-20T20:26:00.000-07:00

Reported by Xuan Hoa – Translated by Trong Nhien

The Khanh Hoa province vice leader said Wednesday that he was confident Vietnamese organizers would meet the Miss Universe pageant’s requirements and host the 2008 competition.

Miss Universe chairwoman Paula Mary Shugart has said that only once the government has approved the project and local organizers have proved their ability to meet budget and facility requirements would the panel officially sign a contract to hold the event in Vietnam.

The competition requires a US$15 million dollar investment including a new concert hall. Khanh Hoa officials and organizers are planning to hold the event in Nha Trang, Vietnam’s most popular beach destination.

Vice chairman of Khanh Hoa’s People’s Committee Le Xuan said that Hoan Vu Corp., Miss Universe’s Vietnamese organizing partner, plans to build a new 7,500-seat theater and would begin construction as soon as the central government ratified its proposal.

Than also said that government funds would not be spent on the event, but according to Hoan Vu Corp., the firm will be able to cover the cost of the show.

Than also said the province was upgrading Cam Ranh Airport to facilitate international flights while improving accommodation standards around Nha Trang to welcome the large number of visitors expected to flood the beach town for the pageant.

Authorities from the south-central province will now have to submit a report to the Government Office and Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism for the project’s approval.

Several critics of the controversial plan have said that it would be a great waste of money to spend millions of dollars on a beauty contest while the country is still needs funds for development.

Holding such an event is never financially simple, according to Shane St. Michael, a member of the 2005 Miss Universe organizing board in Thailand.

“Although it [the event] was partly subsidized by the government, we still suffered a $1 million loss,” he said.

Source: Thanhnien News.com

A ‘Khwaahish’ for Sushmita tonight

2007-09-20T18:47:00.000-07:00

Maheka Mirpuri uses former Miss Universe as a princess for her festive collection preview.

Designer Maheka Mirpuri, who dreamed like every little girl of one day being a princess, has fulfilled this desire with her new fashion collection called ‘Khwaahish’.

It previews tonight, with Miss Universe Sushmita Sen playing Maheka’s princess on the ramp, in a glittering display of fashion that is at once royal and opulent... but also minimalistic.

Maheka describes her new line as being flowy, with layers and layers of long fabric that provide the users with movement when they walk. “It is pretty and very girlie,” she admitted, “and I have used minimalistic embroidery. The royal touch has been acquired by the use of a lot of olden time stuff, you know, like fabric, texture, style, culture, and silhouette.”

So there are sherwanis in a contemporary look, brocade lehengas westernised with corsets, satin and brocade churidhaars with leather cuffs, that sort of thing. Mehaka has also used chunky precious stones in her garments that, she said, is very couture. “They are the main feature, their sizes, styles and colour all symbolise richness and royalty,” she explained.

And as for Sushmita Sen, yes, she will walk the finale. So make sure you are invited to the preview of ‘Khwaahish’ tonight. “Sushmita has the right form,” said the designer. “When I thought of this theme, I knew she was the perfect person to dress as a princess, and I’ve given her garments a dreamy, flowy and festive look.”

Source: The Times of India

Jennifer Hawkins' visit was a letdown

2007-09-20T07:25:00.000-07:00

By Nikki Parkinson

She came, she saw and she cut a ribbon.

The Jennifer Hawkins show stopped briefly in Brisbane this week and I was ringside for the event.

I’d like to tell you, dear readers, that this was a privileged position to be in but alas, the term VIP was not as VI as I had hoped.

You see, when it comes to supermodels, I’ve been a bit spoilt.

In 2004 that I had one-on-one interview time with Megan Gale during a stay at the Conrad Treasury – and earlier this year I got to stand around in a small circle of fellow fashion journos while Elle Macpherson held court.

So when the invitation to have breakfast with Jennifer Hawkins arrived last week, I deluded myself that it would be me, Jen and a few important media types sitting down for a bowl of muesli and a flat white.

The scenario that unfolded before me on Tuesday morning could not have been further from this.

We lined up (admittedly on red carpet) and made a grand entrance into Myer Chermside at 7.30am, only to be ushered down to the store’s cosmetics hall.

By the time we (my hubby had taken the day off for a chance to get up close and personal with Jen) were munching on our first mini croissant and downing a glass of Janz bubbles, there were about 50 people doing the same thing.

That number continued to grow and an hour later there was audible concern from the punters as to whether the star guest was actually going to show.

Minutes later when she did, one Myer frequent shopper near us commented that it was just like royalty.

The crowd parted and Miss Hawkins did a half lap of the crowd in teetering gold stilettos before taking to the mini stage, answering a few staged questions about life and fashion, then officially opening the refurbished store.

All fab stuff, but I couldn’t help feeling a little let down.

After all, here was Australia’s favourite girl next door, standing just metres away from me.

Unfortunately for me – and my desire for a fashion scoop - she was also just metres from about 200 others.

Source: Sunshine Coast Daily

Despite Lesbian, Drug Scandal Miss USA Tara Conner Says No Changes

2007-09-20T07:10:00.000-07:00

By Marilyn Beck and Stacy Jenel Smith

Despite the scandals that plagued her reign last year, former Miss USA Tara Conner says if she had the chance to do it all over, "I wouldn't have done anything differently." Controversy became Conner's last name after reports surfaced that she turned into a party animal, had been sneaking men into the Trump Place apartment appointed for Miss USA, was drinking underage, tested positive for cocaine, and kissed Miss Teen USA Katie Blair in public.

Despite Lesbian, Drug Charges Miss USA Tara Conner Says No Changes

Conner escaped dethronement only after Miss USA pageant owner/exec producer Donald Trump decided to give her a second chance and she entered rehab last December.

"I know it sounds crazy," says Conner of not wanting to change a thing about the past year, "but we all make mistakes. No one in this world is perfect. I can sit here and try to beat myself up about being the one who did go out too much, but all of these mistakes have formed the person I am today, who is someone I'm very proud of and have a lot of respect for."

Connor will be seen offering the benefit of her hindsight to 2007's reigning beauty queens, Miss Universe Riyo Mori, Miss USA Rachel Smith and Miss Teen USA Katie Blair, in MTV's Oct. 10-debuting reality series "Pageant Place," which chronicles what happens to a beauty queen after the win.

"I pretty much touched base on every issue you could touch base on," notes Conner, "so I'm an unofficial peer consultant there to try to keep them sane, help them look on the bright side of things and realize everything in life is temporary."

In retrospect, she says, "The crazy thing about it is that when I received the title, I didn't know what I wanted to achieve because of this disease, alcoholism, and all the 'isms' I fell into." In fact, she says now, "In no way did I think I would win and be put in this position, and when the first runner up got called, I thought, 'Oh, s---! What do I do now?' I was scared to death. I didn't realize how much went into it, how stressful it was. … I was only able to get three good sober months in as Miss USA, but it was still the best year of my life. It was the hardest year but still the best."

Source: National Ledger

What a face in the crowd

2007-09-20T02:15:00.000-07:00

SHE is universally sought, but yesterday it was Adelaide's turn to host Jennifer Hawkins.

The former Miss Universe and Myer ambassador is in town as part of her national tour promoting the department store's latest summer collection.

And while she may only be here for two days, the 23-year-old was willing to put fashion aside for five minutes, mingling with excited shoppers in Rundle Mall.

In a stunning Wayne Cooper citrus gown, Hawkins posed for photos and even gave one fan a high five.

But it was back to business last night, with Hawkins entertaining more than 250 guests at an exclusive Myer VIP cocktail party. Among the stars at the event was Sydney-based designer Wayne Cooper, who talked about this season's latest trends from mini to maxi dresses.

However, there will be no rest for the Channel 7 star who will jet off to New Zealand on Monday on a 10-day trip for The Great Outdoors. It's not too late to see the blonde beauty. She will be at Myer City today from 12.30pm.

Source: Adelaide Now

Lara Dutta joins hands with MTV to battle human trafficking

2007-09-19T15:58:00.000-07:00

SOLD, the lead feature of the MTV EXIT campaign in South Asia is a unique and powerful program which aims to raise awareness and increase prevention of human trafficking.

An MTV EXIT Special premiered today in Mumbai with Lara Dutta presenting the documentary. SOLD, the lead feature of the MTV EXIT campaign in South Asia is a unique and powerful program which aims to raise awareness and increase prevention of human trafficking. Bollywood Actress Lara Dutta is one amongst many international artists who have joined the MTV EXIT Campaign. The documentary will be telecast on MTV on Saturday, 22nd September, 7:00 pm

MTV EXIT is produced in partnership with USAID, The United States Agency for International Development. The documentary gives an insight into the realities of trafficking, addresses the part that everyone plays in the issue, and provides information on how individuals can protect themselves against trafficking, as well as what everyone can do to help end exploitation and trafficking. SOLD: An MTV EXIT Special has been produced in English and Hindi to maximize local relevance.

Lara Dutta, MTV EXIT South Asia Ambassador for the campaign, was quoted saying, “I am glad that I can use my status as an actress in the Indian Film Industry – an industry that India is crazy about to create awareness about another underground industry – human trafficking, which is becoming alarmingly bigger and more nefarious day by day. I am especially proud of ‘sold’ which is a true eye opener and hope that we spread the message that will help anyone and everyone fight against the pervasiveness of trafficking of human beings for manual labour, domestic labour and prostitution.”

Ashish Patil, General Manager, MTV India & VP, Creative & Content, said “MTV has always delivered high impact content & communication for youth audiences that not only entertains them, but makes them think, be informed and react. Each one of us is a key link in the human trafficking chain. The first step in breaking that chain is creating awareness. The MTV Exit campaign hopes to do just that in signature MTV style by speaking a language that the youth connect with. Through some compelling stories – really well told – that drive home the message. Join us, and help us break that chain.”

“We are very proud to be launching the MTV EXIT Campaign across South Asia,” commented Simon Goff, MTV EXIT Campaign Director. “As the “SOLD” documentary shows, trafficking is of critical importance here, both in terms of vulnerable young people being trafficked and in respect to the exploitation of trafficking victims. We hope that this campaign provides key information for people to protect themselves as well as inspire our audience to join the fight against trafficking.”

Michael S. Owen, U.S. Consul General, said “SOLD: An MTV EXIT Special is just one project, but an important one. It complements U.S. programs around the world that help prevent trafficking, prosecute perpetrators, protect people most at risk, and reintegrate people who have been trafficked. This movie is a call to action.”

In the recent past as a part of the Pro-Social initiatives, MTV India has actively involved more than 10,000 youngsters, singers, performers and MTV VJ’s in an effort to fight against HIV & AIDS, to ‘Spread the Message and Not the Virus!’ at the MTV Music Summit for Aids held in Mumbai. MTV has also launched a public awareness campaign 'MTV Dirtbusters' to create awareness and get young adults into doing something about the pollution, dirt and littering in the neighbourhood.

Source: India Infoline News Services

Gorgeous Jen swoops in

2007-09-19T15:00:00.000-07:00

Former Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins flew in to Adelaide today, ready to set the fashion world on fire.

FORMER Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins swept into Adelaide today – ready to set the fashion scene on fire with her dazzling smile and supermodel looks.

Ms Hawkins, 23, will tonight headline the Myer summer fashion collection before 250 VIPs including fashion designer Wayne Cooper and retiring Crows captain Mark Ricciuto.

The gorgeous model said she was happy to be in Adelaide.

"I don't get to see much while I'm here – except for hotels and the airport," she said.

"I have been very busy lately. On Monday I fly to NZ for a tour of the South Island for the Great Outdoors (TV show)."

Source: Adelaide Now

Global warming just a parade

2007-09-19T07:17:00.000-07:00

Water, water, everywhere: Bikini-clad girls found plenty of water to splash around in at the Miss Earth contest.

By Andrew Bolt

IT'S a toss-up as to who's making a bigger fool of themselves over climate change: our politicians or our Miss Earth contestants, Andrew Bolt writes.

At least the girls in the Miss Earth beauty pageant can afford to look stupid, since they aren't in charge of anything important, like the vanishing water supplies of our cities.

They've just wanted to preach green messages in a bikini and tiara, as they fought last week for the titles of Miss Earth Australia, Best in Swimsuit and Best Environmental Speech.

So, we could smile to read contestant Snezana declare that "Salinisation (sic) of land is one of the major environemtal (sic) crises facing Australia", and Kirra warn that "the biggest problem in our enviroment (sic) today is our lack of water".

At worst we'd have wondered how badly we teach English as Angelique demanded help for an "environmnet" in danger, and Natalia wept for an "enviornment (sic) that sustains us".

How cute, these earnest bikini babes, so keen to save something they cannot even spell.

But how scary, too, that many of these contestants want to save this thing they cannot spell from a threat they cannot understand.

You see, someone - a few of the girls dobbed in Al Gore - has filled their pretty heads with such wild fears of global warming that poor Amanda now wails that "the human race will eventually become extinct".

Scared silly, like so many children now, by professional panic merchants, it seems there's nothing these girls won't now blame on global warming; even tsunamis caused by earthquakes.

Christine, for instance, says she's been worried about global warming "from when the tsunami happened in Thailand back in December 2004".

"Hey! Me too," squeals Georgina.

"Aside from an increase in natural disasters such as the fateful tsunami of 2004 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005, smaller changes to weather patterns are slowly being recognised."

Of course, we mustn't blame the girls for believing something so stupid when even Great Guru Gore has falsely suggested global warming caused Hurricane Katrina, the melting snows of Kilimanjaro, the drying of Lake Chad, the immigration of Pacific islanders and whatever else he dreams up when flying here to tell us to cut the kind of emissions he just blew out the back of his jet.

And I ask again: Who really is making a bigger fool of themselves over global warming; these harmless beauty contestants or our politicians, now watching our dams drain dry?

The girls may think global warming causes earthquakes, but our politicians just as stupidly claim it's causing our cities to run out of water.

Here is New South Wales Premier Morris Iemma last Friday, explaining why Sydney is getting permanent water restrictions: "The changes brought by climate change are going to change the way we use water."

Victoria's politicians have used the same line. Here is our since departed Minister for No Water, John Thwaites, excusing water restrictions that are killing our playing fields and gardens: "So all the evidence points to a significant involvement of global warming in the present drought."

How handy, that global warming bogyman. Blame global warming for Melbourne's dams now being 7 per cent lower now than they were even last year, when things got grim.

Blame global warming for the Brumby Government having to reassure us last week that Melbourne won't run out of drinking water this year, at least. Gosh, don't blame the Government instead for having such a green phobia about a new dam that we may run out of water the year after.

What deceitful men. Or stupid.

For a start, no scientist can tell if any drought yet has been caused by the slight global warming of 0.7 degrees thought to have occurred last century.

Let's not forget we've had many droughts before in our "land of droughts and flooding rains". Indeed, the driest five years in NSW in the past century were from 1940 to 1944, and Victoria's past five years have been no drier than what we suffered then, too.

Bureau of Meteorology figures suggest we may just be returning to the drier weather of the first 45 years of last century.

In NSW, the average annual rainfall back then was just 475mm. Then came years of plenty, averaging 567mm, but since 1996 the annual rainfall has fallen back to an average of 511mm - still well up on the usual rainfall of the post-war years. So what drought?

Victoria's weather has followed much the same pattern: Dry years until 1945, followed by years of good rain until a decade ago, when the dry returned. Our average annual rainfall from 1996 has been 571mm, much less than the post-war average until then of 671mm, but not much less than the pre-war average of 603mm.

Droughts come and droughts go, and it's impossible to see the influence of any man-made global warming. So why should this make you furious with our politicians?

Because the history of this continent's weather should have told them to prepare for dry years of the kind we've had so often before.

Because it should have told them they were mad to waste dam water on environmental flows for rivers that had survived years far drier than these.

And because by blaming global warming instead of themselves, they make sweet girls like Miss Earth's Krystle shake on their stilettos, sure that "the ultimate end of existence of Earth and man is global warming".

Fear not, Krystle, stupidity will kill us more surely than global warming.

Source: Herald Sun

Pantaloons endorses Lara Dutta and Bobby Deol as `Brand Ambassadors`

2007-09-19T04:56:00.000-07:00

They will feature in all the new print advertisements and television commercials, henceforth for Pantaloons.

Pantaloons, India’s leading fashion retailer, on Wednesday announced that popular actors and bollywood sensations, Lara Dutta and Bobby Deol are the new faces of Pantaloons. They will feature in all the new print advertisements and television commercials, henceforth for Pantaloons. The first advertising campaign featuring Lara Dutta and Bobby Deol will be releasing shortly.

Lara Dutta and Bobby Deol, are known for their distinctive style statements both personally and professionally. The Pantaloons brand will leverage their universal appeal, which is not merely limited to the metropolitan cities, but also extends to the smaller cities and towns.

Said, Sanjeev Agrawal, CEO, Pantaloons, "Pantaloons stands for a Fresh Feel and Fresh Attitude. Bobby Deol and Lara Dutta, who are very stylish actors of today, fit well with the brand. We believe that our association with Bobby and Lara, will help enhance the fashion imagery of the ‘Pantaloons’ brand. Hence, we are proud to sign the two Bollywood icons to endorse our flagship fashion retail brand."

Actor Bobby Deol said, "Fashion is constantly changing and Pantaloons promises to keep up with ever changing fashion trends. The fashion edge that it provides makes me want to make Pantaloons my style statement. It is great to be associated with a fresh and youthful brand Pantaloons.”

Actress Lara Dutta said, "Pantaloons has a wide range of stylish fashion wear for the Indian women, offering apparel and accessories that suit every mood and occasion. With its promise of 'Fresh fashion', it guarantees something new every time one goes there. That makes Pantaloons my kind of store and I am proud to be associated with it."

Source: India Infoline News Service

Big show of solidarity for Anand Jon

2007-09-19T03:30:00.000-07:00

BEVERLY HILLS, CA: The Beverly Hilton played host to a major South Asian Community Gala FOSAAC featuring Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villagairosa, former DNC Chairman and Clinton advisor Terry McAuliffe, Kevin Kaul (FOSAAC founder), Marla Maples (former Mrs. Donald Trump), Amrita Thapar (Miss India), Jimmy Jeanlouis (actor, Heroes), Daria Trifu (actress), Bruno Pischiutta (Toronto Pictures), Camille McDonald (from America’s Next Top Model) , Sasha , (Miss India Global), along with a bevy of models and members of the fashion community at the Fashion extravaganza by Sanjana Jon in support of the crown prince of couture designer Anand Jon.

Among the frivolity of the Emmy parties, designer and social activist Sanjana Jon started LA Fashion Week in style. A line up of stunning models wearing "We Support Anand Jon" opened a spectacular fashion presentation on September the 15 for the annual gala event for FOSAAC celebrating 60 years of Indian independence. The show was dedicated to supporting global independence and civil rights. The audience was ecstatic – the show was the highlight of the night’s event.

The press reception prior to the opening ceremony was packed and many press clamored to get their time with Ms. Jon. International and local press and media included CNN, Sahara, Zoom, Z-TV, News Asia, India Journal, India West, magazines and newspaper, A powerful video presentation by director Anirudh Garg ran before the music cued the first runway walker. The video featured images of Anand Jon as a young man.

The presentation humanized him versus a harsh, media-driven, sensationalized world. It showed him as a family man, a spiritual man, a man of substance, values and personality. After the LA Mayor introduced Terry McAuliffe, Sanjana Jon, Marla Maples, Camille McDonald, and Amrita Thapar took the stage and made a plea to the community and politicians to take a strong stance and consideration regarding the violation of individuals civil rights.

Guilty By Color should be eradicated and justice served was the main message promoted through the show. Supporters, guests and fashion crew including international fashion producers flew in from across the globe. 45 models participated and devoted their services to show their support of AJ. Int’l Fashion director Christian Ruart from Paris, NY and Milan flew in to direct the show.

Hair and make up by Madeeha Kibriya & Jeannie Jeffries Couture Beauty enhanced the fabulous show Those attending the event came together and stood in silent support of one of their own. Lines of women gave her ovation and support to Shashi Abraham for her son for her struggle against injustice. Bruno P is looking forward to Anand Jon appearing as a lead in one of his Toronto Picture films and Daria Trifu from Daria! Magazine is profiling his charitable efforts for an upcoming issue. "People have to understand the industry to truly comprehend the unbelievable irrationality of this case", was the word from several fashion insiders. Sanjana Jon has worked with the UN and has promoted AIDS Awareness through the tour started by her brother Anand Jon with the reigning Miss Universe Amelia Vega, Jennifer Hawkins, Natalie Glebova and Zuleyka Rivera. Kal Penn (actor), Michelle Rodriguez (actor), Salman Khan (actor), Howie Dorough (Backstreet Boys), Paris Hilton and Princess Olivia de Bourbon are few of the many celebrities Sanjana Jon has worked with. Awards ceremony and artist performances followed the fashion show. The purpose of the show was to make a strong statement supporting civil rights and people should contact wesupportanandjon@gmail.com with comments and letters of support. Also check www.anandjon.com .

Source: India Post

Hawkins thrills Coast fans

2007-09-19T02:32:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Hawkins signed autographs for plenty of excited young fans at Pacific Fair at Myer yesterday.

ABOUT 400 screaming fans took time out from their jobs yesterday to see the beautiful former Miss Universe, Jennifer Hawkins (pictured).

Hawkins signed autographs for plenty of excited young girls at Pacific Fair on a tour for Myer.

Hawkins said it was great to be a role model for young girls, but when speaking about 12-year-old Face of Gold Coast Fashion Week Maddison Gabriel, she didn't think at that age they should be doing what she is just yet.

"I'm not fully for it," she said.

"I don't think at 12 ... I was like playing cricket in the backyard.

"I just don't understand.

"I know the industry a little bit now and I don't think it's right for a 12-year-old, but it's for the parents (to decide)."

Besides the Myer tour, Hawkins also is taking time to broaden her skills and try her hand at acting.

"I have been doing some acting courses and I do enjoy it, but it's not a thing I'm striving for," she said. "I want to be prepared if anything pops up."

She was offered a role in the movie The Pink Panther, which was snapped up by superstar Beyonce because Hawkins couldn't fit it in with her other commitments.

For now, she's just happy to relax this weekend between her Myer tour and filming for The Great Outdoors.

"I'm going to go out to dinner on Saturday night with a group of people and (boyfriend) Jake as well and a few 'drinkie poos' definitely and a dance. I love to have a dance at a club, it's just a release for me," she said.

Source: Gold Coast

Hats off to Hawko

2007-09-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

On the right track... Jennifer Hawkins is among the fashion plates set to support Australia's racing industry after the devastating equine flu epidemic.

by Jen Melocco

THE fillies will finally be back on the track - and beside it - this weekend, as a real race meeting returns to Sydney.

Rosehill is preparing for a bumper 12-race program on Saturday, complete with actual punters, while Sydney's event-starved fashionistas are gearing up for a glamorous return to the track.

With the equine flu epidemic destroying much of the Sydney thoroughbred season, horse lover Jennifer Hawkins yesterday said it was time to get behind the racing industry as the Melbourne Cup looms.

Hawkins modelled some of the latest raceday fashions as she made a plea for Sydney racegoers, who have missed out on much of the fun of the track, to embrace the upcoming Melbourne Spring Carnival.

"I love ladylike dresses with romantic silk and lace," Hawkins said after wrapping up a fashion shoot for Myer at Bowral.

This season, Hawkins said a touch of black and white was perfect for a day like Derby Day.

When it comes to that other essential piece of raceday clothing - hats - this season's strong metallic shades are the way to go.

"Metallics are huge this year and look great teamed with black and white for Derby Day," she said.

While, for the Melbourne Cup, a burst of colour was needed.

Myer director of apparel, Judy Coomber, said while Sydney had missed out on dressing up this spring carnival, there would be more interest than usual from those contravelling interstate for the Cup.

"We are still showcasing a great range of Spring Racing dresses and millinery as we believe there will be an increased interest in the Melbourne Carnival," Ms Coomber said.

Rosehill confirmed Saturday's meeting would be expanded from nine races to 12, to accommodate the bulk of 325 horses nominated.

Two races have attracted 50 or more nominations and two other races have 40 or more.

The meeting is open to both locally and Warwick Farm-trained horses and kicks off at 10.15am.

Dates for the resumption of racing in other parts of NSW should become clearer today.

Source: The Daily Telegraph

Tanisha Vernon is Miss Belize Universe and Larriean Samuels is Miss Belize Earth

2007-09-18T23:39:00.000-07:00

The Miss Belize pageant was held this past Saturday in Belize City and Tanisha Vernon won the title. She will now represent Belize at the Miss Universe pageant in 2008. Yesterday she paid us at visit and told us she is all excited about her new title.

Tanisha Vernon,Miss Belize Universe:

“Right now I’m overwhelmed with enthusiasm. I’m feeling wonderful. It’s definitely an honor to be given this position. And it’s not only a position but it’s a job that you have to maintain and I hope at the end, I can represent my country to the fullest. I think my maintenance of confidence and my hard work and I always kept it in my mind that I’m in it to win it. I maintained my objective and that’s basically what helped me to pull through.”

Vernon told us also that during her reign she plans to work very much with community groups.

Tanisha Vernon,Miss Belize Universe:

“My plan of action is to be more active in my community, work more in Alliance with AIDS. It’s an organization that deals with HIV/AIDS. I noticed that it’s a universal problem worldwide and Belize is one of the Central American country that has one of the highest percentage of HIV/AIDS. And to be apart of that,it’s definitely a task. I mean I have friends and relatives that died from this disease and so I’m faced with it first hand; not only behind the scenes but I see the up close and personal effect that it has on people’s lives. Also with orphanage, being more active in schools, probably reading to the children,help with future pageants at the tertiary and secondary level, and give motivational speeches to those young ladies that probably want to be or vie for the title next year in 2008.”

Love News also spoke with new Miss Belize Earth, Larriean Samuels. Samuels said she is honored to be an ambassador for Belize and that during her reign will try to fulfill all her responsibilities.

Larriean Samuels,Miss Belize Earth:

“It was a very exciting and a little bit nerve-racking experience, and I am very honored to be an ambassador of this country. It’s more of a prestige job I would say,that not any women has the opportunity to do here in Belize. I was very determined and very hungry. I took instructions very well, advice I listened and I executed and I would definitely say that that helped me to win the pageant and being very focused.At this moment I am open. During the course of my reign I’m sure there will be many opportunities that are open. I will experience and I will be aware of things that I didn’t know before and from then I would choose but right now at this moment I am interested in business but in dealing with the environment and everything you never know where your passion may change to a whole 360.”

In the case that either Vernon or Samuels cannot fulfill their duties the first runner up Jesse Medina will take up the post. Medina plans to assist in community service and promote the tourism sector in Belize.

Source: Love FM

Local Beauty Presents Bulgaria on Miss Summer International 2007

2007-09-18T09:52:00.000-07:00

The Bulgarian beauty Galena Dimova, ‘Miss Bulgaria - Universe' 2005 will present the country on the international beauty contest ‘Miss Summer International 2007'.

The competition finals will take place in the luxurious Italian resort ‘Forte Dei Marmi', near to Pisa, on September 26-28.

Galena will compete for the crown with 15 more belles from all around the world.

Special guest and member of the jury will be Eleonora Mancheva, ‘Mrs. Universe 2007'.

Source: News Bg

Miss Polonia, 2007, as metaphor?

2007-09-18T09:32:00.000-07:00

By Peter Gentle

Twenty three year old Barbara Tatara from Lodz, central Poland, was crowned Miss Polonia 2007 last Saturday night at the Congress Hall in the center of Warsaw.

Barbara, a brunette, is a language student and her vital statistics are (in centimeters) 86-66-85 and is 176 centimeters tall.

That’s what the press release said, anyway. I love that expression – ‘vital statistics’ I wonder what Miss Polonia’s ‘non-vital statistics’ are: her IQ, perhaps?

But Miss Polonia should not be confused – as I did – with Miss Poland – who is a completely different ‘Miss’ in a completely different, rival contest.

The winner of Miss Polonia contest goes on to compete for the Miss Universe contest – which is basically an American run competition owned these days by none other than Donald Trump.

The winner of Miss Poland, on the other hand, goes on to compete for the Miss World contest – which is a British based organization.

Last year’s Miss World contest, you may remember – if you have an interest in this sort of thing – was held in Warsaw. The Warsaw authorities took the whole thing very seriously, as I remember, even claiming that putting on such a worldwide event like Miss World would show Planet Earth that Poland was capable of staging such a huge event.

Like the Euro 2012, one presumes – which will be held in Poland and Ukraine in 2012. So far the preperations have been, well a bit of an own goal so far, as it is generally thought that Poland has fallen behind with the planning of the massive infrastructure work that needs to be in place in only five years.

But back to Miss Universe

Quite why the Miss Universe contest is always won by a female from Planet Earth has always been a mystery. Maybe it’s just a case of interstellar discrimination? What about widening out the contest - make it more ‘accessible’ and ‘inclusive’, and include, well, young ladies from other galaxies?

But I digress. Barbara Tatara from Lodz, (vital statistics 86-66-85…etc…) is the latest in a long line of winners going back to 1929, when the first Miss Polonia contest took place. The winner way back then was one Miss Władysława Kostakówna (photo).

I can find no records of her vital statistics …etc… but I have a photograph which I am looking at now. A real 1920s looker was our Władysława: Big dark eyes, tiny red mouth with a slightly curly bob haircut. And she was apparently the daughter of a countess, no less.

The contest ran from 1929 until 1937. And then there was a long break.

During the war there was no contest for obvious reasons.

But, interestingly, the communists who took over in Poland after the war weren’t interested in the Miss Polonia contest either.

Until that is, 1957, when the contest started up again. 1957, is of course, the year after 1956 – the year historians usually mark the end of Stalinism in Poland, Krushchev’s letter etc.

Perhaps, then, that anti-Miss Polonia – ism is in fact a facet of Stalinism? Stalinists didn’t like beauty contests for maybe two reasons. They were:

a) against the goal of social equality and homogeneity, etc, and

b) an affront to Socialist Realism in all art and culture. And if the architecture of the time is anything to go by, then Stalinism was a friend of the ugly, and contests with beautiful people walking up and down catwalks would be certainly not be in the Stalinist style book.

But the new Miss Polonia only survived three years of the Stalinist thaw – and from the beginning of the 1960s to 1982 there was no Miss Polonia contest once again.

But why? What had the new communist authorities got against Miss Polonia?

I have no idea. But maybe it was that every time they put the crown on these women’s heads – and it happens in all beauty contests all over the world - and they lead them to the microphones to say a few words, the new beauty queens always say the same thing, tearfully, when asked what they want to do in the next 365 days of their reign.

“I want to travel the world and..[sob] …do lots of work for charity.”

Every year they say same the thing.

Well, in communist Poland, they wouldn’t be allowed to say that. Because

a) they couldn’t do any work for charity as, in communist times, there were no charities and officially there was no need to have any: and

b) they could only travel the world if they could get a visa. Maybe ‘travel the old Soviet bloc’ might have been a more realistic ambition.

So the communists back then probably banned the contest to stop any young ladies getting any funny ideas: travel the world, do work for charity…

Notice, however, that year the contest started up yet again - in 1983 - was just after the end of martial law in Poland.

So did they start Miss Polonia up again as a sop to the workers? You can understand the thinking back then: communist authorities preside over an economy that has collapsed. They can’t buy off the workers any longer with cheap credits from abroad, like they did for a brief time in the 1970s. So what had they got left?

Well, Miss Polonia, of course. ‘That will put an end to the militant discontent of the Solidarity movement’, you can here them thinking.

Except it didn’t, of course. Which takes us into the current day when Barbara Tatara from Lodz, - vital statistics 86-66-85…etc…, was crowned Miss Polonia 2007 last Saturday night at the Congress Hall – the Stalinist, socialist realist structure that dominates the center of Warsaw.

Source: Polskie Radio

Lara Dutta has injured herself during the shooting

2007-09-18T09:12:00.000-07:00

Lara Dutta was shooting for an ad film at the Kamalistan Studios, where she has injured herself badly. A source informs, "The shot required Lara to run around. The concept of the ad was such that the flooring had to be of green color. There was an iron plank on the floor as well. Incidentally that was of green color too. It was because the plank synchronized well with the flooring. However, during the running sequence she failed to notice it an tripped over, badly injuring her knees and spraining the ankle in the process."

Source: Bollywood Premiere

2007-09-18T07:23:00.000-07:00

Thinking about your ensemble for the Spring Racing Carnival? Don't worry - you don't need to be a thoroughbred like former Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins to turn the heads of the colts on-course.

That's because flowing maxi dresses are set to make a big comeback this season.

Hawkins visited Brisbane today, talking fashion and meeting hoards of fans at the Myer store at Chermside.

As the face of the Myer Spring/Summer collections, Hawkins had a few hot tips to share when it came to staying chic for the carnival.

Simple sixties elegance with a hit of feminine charm was the season's forecasted fashion themes; Hawkins herself epitomising the trends in two different spring frocks from the new Myer range.

Both ensembles were entirely girly, with sky high hemlines and fabulous heels.

The fresh and flirtatiously glamorous look also translated to hair and headwear - with Hawkins herself admitting she was not a fan of fascinators, which were popular in 2006.

A great hat or a head of flawless hair were her suggestions for the style savvy, a point reiterated by stylist Steven Mena, who created Hawkins' look for the day.

Soft curls, free form and a natural shape were his season predictions, recommending the hair conscious steer clear of stiff structure and dead straight styles.

Makeup was similarly unfussy, with Mena using neutral tones to craft Hawkin's smoky-eyed, sun-kissed, very natural look.

Of course, when opting for a barely-there face, the power of powder cannot be underestimated in maintaining that much desired dewy finish.

To this end, Mena recommended a fresh and shine-free look accompanied by a handbag packed with a trusted compact, eye pencil and gloss.

Hawkins was excited with the new season's trends and the upcoming carnival, which will go ahead in Brisbane despite the horse flu crisis.

And punters needn't worry this season when it comes to navigating race tracks (a minefield for the stilettoed fashionista) - because when it comes to shoes, wedged heels win by the length of the home straight.

Source: Brisbane Times.com

Jen's a homebody

2007-09-18T04:44:00.000-07:00

By Nikki Parkinson

Jennifer Hawkins at the opening of the re-furbished Myer Chermside in Brisbane.

She loves our beaches but she’s passing all that up for a weekend at home in Sydney with her boyfriend.

Yes, glamorous Jennifer Hawkins, the former Miss Universe, television star and face of Myer, yesterday told Queensland that her favourite way to chill out was spending time with her boyfriend.

“I can’t wait to hang out with Jake,” Jennifer said, before officially opening the re-furbished Myer Chermside in Brisbane.

More than 200 VIP customers arrived at 7.30am, and waited more than an hour in the cosmetics hall for the store’s special guest to arrive.

Wearing a silk satin print dress by Australian designer TL Wood, Jennifer did a lap of the crowd in sky-high gold stilettos before taking to the stage.

“They’re not holiday shoes,” she said.

Jennifer’s girl-next-door good looks and sunny personality were as evident as they are each week on The Great Outdoors, the Channel 7 show with which she’s just re-signed for another 12 months.

She said the show enabled her to promote Australian designers overseas – and her Myer job gave her good access to those designers.

“When we’re shooting the clothes (for Myer) you do have a chance to look and have a little play around,” she said of her enviable wardrobe.

Jennifer also gave two thumbs-up to Queensland, having visited the state frequently with the travel show.

“I’ve been up and down the coast … I love the people here and the beaches here are glorious,” she said.

“I’ve been back a fair few times with The Great Outdoors, and I’ll be back again.”

Source: The Daily

Nikita Anand's ticket to Bollywood

2007-09-18T00:01:00.000-07:00

Another Miss India loses her ‘dil’ to Bollywood.

After walking the ramp, modelling for print, and anchoring shows on fast cars and cricket on television, former Miss India Universe 2003 Nikita Anand could be said to be around in the glam biz for a while.

But there’s no chance she’s anchoring her nascent film career just yet. On the contrary, it’s set sail with her debut film, Dil Dosti Etc directed by the Cambridge-educated Bihari director Manish Tiwari, releasing at the end of the month.

“I signed the film in February 2006 and it has been a long wait. I took up kathak classes before I started shooting for the film as dancing is very key to the film plot in Bollywood. I even took up theatre workshops. It’s been a very new experience shooting for the film with my costars Shreyas Talpade and Imaad Shah. There’s a lot of waiting around and more importance is given to the camera set up and the lights than the actors!,” laughs Nikita.

Did her title help her get a foothold in the industry? “Being a Miss India has never been a disadvantage to me, despite there being a new one every year. It always helps,” she says. And what is her take on the philanthropic questions that they field as Miss Indias?

“It’s so funny that we Miss Indias are always subjected to ridicule about our so-called clichéd, charitable answers on looking after the world’s impoverished children and the like. But what beats me is that how the typical questions are overlooked. Why would we prepare ourselves to answer those questions if they stopped asking them? It’s ironical. If you wanted to be like Mother Teresa, you wouldn’t be posing in a bathing suit on a world stage. You would just go to her foundation and work quietly,” says the brazen Nikita.

Was it a natural progression for her to get into movies like the earlier Miss Indias like Aishwarya Rai, Priyanka Chopra and Sushmita Sen? “Well, some girls decide beforehand that when they win, the next step will be films. But I had not predecided that I will be an actress. I just thought that I wasn’t mentally prepared then, but I am now,” says the girl who “loves to mimic and pick up foreign accents”.

What kind of work is she looking for? “I just want to do quality work, but I don’t want to be a part of the filth that’s happening,” she says. Given that she shuttles between Delhi and Mumbai every fortnight, she’s even taken up a place in Mumbai now to make it that much easier to work in Bollywood. Serious about showbiz are we?

Source: The Times of India

Oksana Fyodorova becomes UNICEF goodwill ambassador

2007-09-17T15:52:00.000-07:00

MOSCOW. Sept 17 (Interfax) - Children's television program anchor and former Miss Universe Oksana Fyodorova has become a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF.

Fyodorova signed the symbolic contract and received a one-ruble fee from UNICEF representatives in Russia and Belarus Karel de Roy at a Monday press conference celebrating the fund's 10th anniversary of activities in Russia.

Source: Interfax

Tollywood gathers to celebrate

2007-09-17T08:44:00.001-07:00

And surprise of surprises was when Yukta Mookhey turned up at the party too.

Aparna Sen (TOI Photo)

What a better way to celebrate a National Award for the Best English Feature Film than to host a party with celebrities from the film world? Aparna Sen, Konkona and Dhritiman Chatterjee sure had reasons to feel proud what with almost a big section of Kolkata’s film and television world turning up to congratulate them at a party thrown by producer Bipin Vohra at Galaxy, The Park. Of course, people did miss Shabana Azmi’s
presence at the Saturday party what with many still raving about the actor’s sterling performance in 15, Park Avenue.

And surprise of surprises was when Yukta Mookhey turned up at the party too, wearing a turquoise blue dress with stilettos that literally made her tower over everyone else.

Overheard: Is Yukta based in Kolkata these days? First she is spotted at an art exhibition, now at this party. May be, she is keeping her options of doing Tollywood films open!

Source: The Times of India

Jennifer Hawkins re-signs to Seven

2007-09-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

Author: Seven Network Sep 17, 2007, 08:44

Channel Seven has today confirmed that Jennifer Hawkins has re-signed to the Network.

The former Miss Universe, who first joined Seven in 2004, has spent the past three years traveling as a presenter with The Great Outdoors and has recently returned from trips to the US, Italy and Spain.

Jennifer was also one of the celebrities in the fourth season of Seven’s hit series Dancing With The Stars, co-hosted the 2005 Carols In The Domain and has worked as a presenter on the network’s Melbourne Cup Carnival coverage.

“I love being a part of Channel Seven - they gave me my first break, right after my year as Miss Universe,” Jennifer said today.

"It's been great to be a part of their family over the last three years. Through my work on The Great Outdoors, I've learnt so much and have been able to travel to parts of the world I never would have seen.

"To continue this work in 2008 is a great thrill. I’m now looking forward to a trip to New Zealand I have coming up as well as plenty of other new adventures.

"Seven have been so supportive of my other work - they really understand my workload and ambitions and we are able to work together so well."

Source: Ebroadcast

Universal Charmer

2007-09-16T08:01:00.000-07:00

Andrea Roche opens up to Julia Molony about her parents' split, being married and her distrust of good-looking men.

Andrea Roche seems tense. When I arrive to meet her in the bijou Dylan Hotel in Dublin 4, she has already settled in; she's all business-like and engrossed in some kind of paperwork. She has the unmistakable gilded patina of serious affluence that complements so perfectly the design concept of the hotel bar, it makes you think they should pay her to sit there.

With perfect nails, glossy hair, and extravagant curves richly upholstered by her clothes, her look matches exactly the artfully contrived elegance of the place. It's an image that can only be achieved through incessant grooming and expensive accessorising.

We find a cosy corner and begin to talk. In photographs, her precise features sometimes have a hard-bitten look, but in person, she possesses a much softer kind of beauty. I'm dying to launch into a chat about how her year-old marriage is going and to get the truth behind what appears, on the outside, to be an amusing pastiche of the hackneyed beauty-queen-meets-millionaire fairytale (more of which later), but as she seems nervous, I decide to start with something lighter.

So, we talk about her long-standing involvement in Miss Ireland -- in 10 years, she has gone from wearing the crown to becoming the owner and, indeed, the very embodiment of the competition. Her latest coup was acquiring the Irish franchise rights to the Miss Universe pageant.

She speaks slowly, in a husky drawl that is much less bogger-harsh than everyone would have you believe, although her deep tones do fairly boom through the refined hush of the room. There are one or two other lone customers scattered around, but no one else is speaking and you can tell being overheard is making Andrea uncomfortable. She is self-conscious and it shows. So, after a brief kerfuffle, we relocate to the hotel's private library.

In seclusion, Andrea instantly relaxes. The timorous manner melts rapidly into a kind of voluble, jocose banter that is the special talent of pretty, chatty girls from rural towns, who are raised to be able to verbally lampoon their brothers over the racket in the local family bar.

If Dublin high society apes an aristocratic hierarchy of wealth and prestige, then the Miss Ireland pageant is the equivalent of a Swiss finishing school, furnishing girls with the right manners and connections to make it to the top echelons of the social scene. And with Miss Ireland's transformative influence now many years behind her, it's a long time since Andrea has been stuck making wise cracks in country pubs.

This year (appropriately, the one she turns 30) represents a professional coming of age for Andrea. Her business partner of several years, Mags Humphries from the Assets modelling agency, is off to live in Australia, so Andrea is single-handedly taking over the helm of Miss Ireland. And with the Irish franchise of Miss Universe now added to her portfolio, she has already expanded this inherited empire.

It's an important time that marks her graduation from professional model to modelling professional -- a proper, stand-alone entrepreneur. It doesn't stop there. Next on her to-do list is the fulfilment of a long-standing aim to head her own agency.

As queen bee of the Irish modelling set Andrea presides serenely over a merry carnival of inconsequence. Her world is populated by pretty girls in bikinis who pose on Grafton Street and try, by buffness alone, to confer attention onto whatever product (mobile phones, ice creams, bananas) they've been hired to plug. It's a lifestyle defined by velvet-rope values and Brown Thomas tastes but, for all her famous bottle, Andrea is quite happy within its confines.

"I always knew my limits," she says, reflecting on what she has achieved so far. "I always knew that I was lucky to be a big fish in a small pond here in Ireland and that I should make the most of that. I never dreamed of going to New York or Milan and trying to compete against the most beautiful women in the world. I do admire girls who do that, but luckily, I've never had those kinds of ambitions."

This, as I'm to learn over the next couple of hours, is classic Andrea: relentless pragmatism, an unsparing self-knowledge that exposes her insecurities, and an awareness of her strengths and how to use them.

She was born and raised in Clonmel, the eldest of five children in a normal, happy household. Her siblings now all lead lives that are markedly different from hers and she admits that they all have strongly contrasting personalities. One of her sisters is a social care worker; the other is studying hotel management. Her youngest brother is about to start a computer science degree in Waterford and the older brother works in a factory in Kilkenny.

Even when she was very young that characteristic instinct for self-reliance, for mastering her surroundings, quickly became apparent. On her first day of school, she calmly told her mother to let go of her hand, walking straight inside without even looking back.

At 18, she went off to Carlow to study business. She wasn't even halfway through when she won Miss Ireland and left for good -- a decision that, for obvious reasons, she has never had cause to regret.

Thus began the giant leap from Carlow tech to Miss World stage. It was a baptism of fire for a small-town girl who had barely been out of Ireland. At the Miss Universe competition all the other contestants were decked out in designer clothes and bankrolled by rich boyfriends, but she had to borrow an evening dress from Miss India as she had brought only one gown to last her six weeks. Despite these, and other almost- cliched, gauche Irish disadvantages, she did well, coming in at fourth place.

"I was very innocent and naive when I won and learnt a lot in that year," she says.

Andrea has, in the past, described herself as a very committed person, which sounds like one of those vapid, meaningless little statements until you examine the manner in which she built her career. Her association with Newbridge began over eight years ago. She's gone from simply modelling the jewellery to becoming synonymous with the brand. Demonstrating a shrewdness so brazen it becomes almost charming, she never misses an opportunity to drop the company name. She's been equally tenacious, of course, in her approach to taking over Miss Ireland.

It didn't take Andrea long to figure out that CityWest (where she and her husband now live out the Celtic Tiger dream in all its gated-mansion glory) would not be conquered by modelling alone. Especially considering, as she has said herself in the past, it's so hard to make any real money from it.

"The best earners are the well-known girls," she says of her role in the evolution of Irish Models from mere clothes horses to schlock celebrities and household names. Making an actual living as a model in Ireland is a gruelling ascent, achieved by clinging, tooth and nail, to any opportunity, no matter how humiliating, to build up a profile. Andrea has managed the impressive feat of achieving this with dignity, relatively speaking, intact.

This is due, for the most part, to an impressive cop-on when playing the media game and an understanding of how to engage with the press. "If somebody rings you, and you've got a little story that you think would be worthwhile, you know, something positive about yourself, there's no harm in giving that," she says.

She's so media aware, in fact, that she has developed the rather odd habit of seeming to exercise her own editorial judgment as she's being interviewed. Several times during our conversation, she wonders aloud: "What else will I say?" making explicit an acute consciousness of her audience, which she knows she must nourish assiduously.

As well as that, she protects her brand by following some simple rules: she's never photographed drunk, or even with a drink in her hand. She doesn't go to launches unless she's getting paid. "I don't want my picture at the back of a magazine at the opening of an envelope." She never does anything too provocative. "I'd like people to have respect for me, and I've too much respect for my parents and PJ and myself."

She was already well established in her new life in Dublin when her parents separated eight years ago. She says it was the hardest thing that she has ever had to deal with. She's never talked about this publicly before and, in doing so, chooses her words carefully, anxious not to say anything that might hurt them. "If your parents break up when you are an adult, it's harder. You realise how human they are, that they can be just as lost as any other person," she says.

"I think my parents' break-up affected me a lot. Just the fact that there is nothing you can do about it really, except be there for them. You see somebody in a rawer state when they are hurting. I saw some of the strength I've got in my mother when it happened. I think often women cope a lot better."

She is close to both her parents and mentions particularly that, as the first-born girl, she's always been her father's pet. She talks to him on the phone for an hour every day. You get the impression, though, that this is not because she's a needy daddy's girl, but rather is an indication of how conscientiously she bears her responsibility towards her family since its nucleus collapsed.

Perhaps as a refuge from the upheaval back home, Andrea threw herself into carving a path in Dublin's fashion and media circles. She embarked on a romance with the then high-flying Jim Corr. She had just come out of a long-standing affair with an unknown DJ when they met, but in becoming Jim's girlfriend, she was firmly established as half of one of the city's celebrity power couples.

It was to be a long-term but not life-time liaison. When, after three-and-a-half years, they eventually broke up, she moved on, this time stepping out on the arm of the heir to one of Ireland's most powerful business dynasties, PJ Mansfield, son of property tycoon, Jim Mansfield.

Their marriage, which took place this time last year in Saggart, Dublin, was the society wedding of the year. The pictures were splashed across the pages of VIP and with every name worth dropping in deferential, courtly attendance, it might as well have been a coronation.

On the surface, they seem an unlikely couple; the beauty queen socialite and the rather more retiring Mansfield. The couple are rarely pictured out together and they keep their private lives away from the glare of the media that Roche is so adept at courting in her professional life.

Andrea, in her pragmatic way, considers that her marriage to Mansfield was dictated by the circumstances of what was already a rather unusual lifestyle.

"I didn't really get asked out a whole lot. Guys would think 'Oh, she'd have no interest in me'. The only guys that might have the confidence to chat to you would be people who were relatively successful."

Initially, it was PJ's nonchalance that she liked. "He didn't make much of an effort with me. I found that a bit attractive because he wasn't into the scene. He didn't care about whether I was a model or worked in a shop and he was just very normal. I'm from a small town and I can get a little bit intimidated at times by really, really sophisticated people. With time, you do realise it's really just smoke and screens. There's not a whole lot behind it."

She tackles, elegantly, tacitly, the fact that her husband, who looks sweet and pleasant, is no Colin Farrell. "A lot of the half good-looking guys I know would be womanisers around the place," she says. "You meet a lot of chancers over the years. You see a lot of people having affairs and any of the really good-looking fellas playing the field. I'm not saying I settled for . . . "

There is a pause, as she considers how to make this rather delicate point, before concluding rather vaguely, "But you'd just be glad for someone just normal." As with her career, in affairs of the heart, it seems she's happier to stick with safe, known quantities, rather than to indulge in adventurism for its own sake. I suspect she is someone who always likes to feel on top of things, always in control.

"Trust is a major thing for me," she offers as an insight into the judgement she exercised in choosing PJ for a husband. "I have a good few male friends and I know what they get up to when they go on holidays. I have so much freedom with PJ. I could say to him, 'I'm going on holidays for two weeks, you don't mind, do you?' and he'd let me. Not that I do that very often, but it's great to be myself. He's not ringing me all the time. If I'm away with friends, he's not ringing me to see where I am or who I'm talking to."

But how do they maintain a chemistry having been together so long and, especially, now that they are married?

"Both of us make an effort with our appearances," she says. "We still like to have romantic meals out and stuff. We have time to ourselves, so we are not getting too complacent."

I ask her what kind of things they fight about and she considers for a moment before saying, " He bottles up. I can't imagine how a person can't get angry at things."

Of course, this is spoken by a woman

who is well known for unleashing her furious temper -- once to spectacular effect when she was stopped for speeding (an indiscretion that earned her a further fine for verbally abusing a garda).

"I'm not a bit psycho and I'm not a moody person. But if someone does something wrong to me, then I'm not afraid to say it."

PJ, on the other hand, is much more laid- back. Andrea shrugs off the suggestion that people might have them pegged as having a stereotypically transactional relationship, where material wealth is staked in exchange for the ownership of physical beauty.

"I think people think that he's a serious, big flasho Johnny big notes -- but he's not," she says. "He works six days a week, and it's his father who's very wealthy. We have a great life and he's on a good wage, but he's not what people think."

And for those, like me, who wonder about the domestic details of their life, she kindly provides the odd bit of info that he's a bit of a DIY wizard. Could "practically build a house from scratch", apparently. Which comes as a bit of a surprise, because he doesn't look like the type you could imagine sporting a tool belt.

Andrea Roche's professional career thus far has shown her to be a consummate opportunist, but you could never call her lazy.

"I'd hate to sit at home and have to put my hand out at the end of the week. I'd hate to depend on someone else materially," she says. And since her ferocious drive so clearly stems from a pressing desire to constantly assert her independence, no one could really argue with that.

Source: Independent

Ex-secretary moves SC against Priyanka Chopra

2007-09-15T20:14:00.000-07:00

Priyanka Chopra’s private secretary has filed a petition in the SC challenging the star’s discharge by the Madhya Pradesh HC. (AP Photo)

NEW DELHI: Prakash Jaju, the estranged private secretary of Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra, has filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging her discharge by the Madhya Pradesh High Court in a criminal intimidation case filed by him.

In the special leave petition filed through counsel Abhijit Sengupta and Anand Dey, the petitioner submitted that the High Court had erroneously discharged the actress of criminal intimidation charges while acknowleding the same against her father Ashok Chopra and underworld don Chhota Shakeel.

Jaju had filed a case of criminal intimidation in January this year before a magistrate in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh against Priyanka, Ashok Chopra and Chhota Shakeel after the actress and her father allegedly used the services of the don to intimidate him in a financial dispute.

According to Jaju, the don at the behest of the Chopras called him up from Malayasia and threated to eliminate him if he failed to withdraw the civil suit filed by him against the actress.

The suit filed two years ago related to arrears to the tune of more than Rs 1 crore due to Jaju from Priyanka.

Following the threat, Jaju filed a case of criminal intimidation before a magistrate in Mhow who took cognizance of the complaint and framed charges under IPC sections 506 IPC (criminal intimidation) and 34 (common intention).

However, the Chopras moved the Madhya Pradesh High Court which while approving the charges framed against Shakeel and Ashok Chopra, discharged Priyanka of the charges on the ground that no case was made against her.

Incidentally, Priyanka had last week filed a caveat before the apex court pleading that she should be heard before any orders are passed on the SLP sought to be filed by Jaju.

Source: The Times of India

Venezuela pageant attack

2007-09-15T18:12:00.000-07:00

Minutes after Miss Venezuela 2007 was crowned, a young man attacked one of the runners-up

Minutes after a 21-year-old from the state of Amazonas was enthroned Miss Venezuela 2007, a young man from the live audience took to the stage and attacked one of the runners-up.

28 Venezuelan women lit up the stage at the Miss Venezuela contest but it took just one man to steal the show. Just minutes after a 21-year old from the state of Amazonas was crowned Miss Venezuela, a very eager fan jumped out from the live audience, and attacked one of the runners-up and snatched her crown.

He then tried to sit down on the winner's throne but was stopped by the security. As he was escorted away, the man said he wanted the crown for his state of Zulia.

This surely was one crowning moment, that no one will forget.

Source: Times Now

Jennifer Hawkins in Seven heaven

2007-09-15T17:00:00.000-07:00

SEVENTH HEAVEN: Former Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins was in Perth this week, out on the Swan River. Picture: Karin Calvert-Borshoff

JENNIFER Hawkins will continue her globetrotting ways with Channel 7 - for now.

In Perth this week, the 23-year-old yesterday ended months of speculation about her television career, confirming to The Sunday Times she had renewed a 12-month contract with Channel 7.

"Seven offered me a longer contract but I decided to go with 12 months,'' Hawkins said.

"It was right for me at the moment and then I can reassess at the end of the 12 months and see where I'm going.''

Hawkins aims to brighten her star at Seven, adding to her present work on The Great Outdoors with a presenting gig at the upcoming spring racing carnival and other projects.

"I think I've got another 12 months of Great Outdoors left in me. It won't be as full-on as it has been in previous years, so I'll be able to do things like spring racing and other projects that come along.''

While Hawkins remained unsure about her other options at Seven, she admitted Channel 9 had tried to lure her.

Jennifer Hawkins as you've never seen her: In STM

Source: The Sunday Times

Ugandan Wins Miss East Africa UK Crown

2007-09-15T11:22:00.000-07:00

Anthony Nyongesa
Nairobi

Twenty-one-year-old Maureen Nyakaira of Uganda has been crowned Miss East Africa UK 2007.

Nyakaira had faced stiff competition from representatives from Tanzania, Malawi, Kenya, Somalia, Ethiopia and Eritrea, and takes over the crown from Brenda Akot who won it last year when the pageant was inaugurated.

A medical physics student at Cardiff University, Wales, she said it was a pleasant surprise to be declared the winner. "I will remember this night for the rest of my life; at first I was shocked and asked myself: 'Is it me really? But then that was my number they called,'" she said.

The crowd cheered as the beauty claimed the prestigious title. Head judge Rachel Ritfeld described her as humble, graceful and very natural, saying that she would go along way in raising East Africans' awareness about under-privileged children.

The much anticipated pageantry took place at the prestigious Conway Hall, London, a fortnight ago.

Speaking by phone from UK, Miss East Africa competition chief executive Pauline Long said the event was attended by guests from not only the East African region, but also other parts of Africa and Europe.

Special guests

The special guests of the evening were former child soldier Emmanuel Jal and Cindy of the famous Ugandan girls-only band Blue3. The highlight was a performance by Jal who electrified the crowd with his unique gospel rap.

Jal grew up in Kenya after being smuggled out of war-torn motherland- Sudan. "I'm honoured to be here to support a good cause, and I commend Pauline for standing up for vulnerable children orphaned by HIV/Aids and genocide in countries like Rwanda," said the musician when he delivered in his speech.

Pauline, a Kenyan, established the pageant to highlight issues affecting the African child in the eastern African region, while Jal is the founder of GUA Africa - a charity organisation that works with individuals, families and communities to enable them to overcome the effects of war.

Jal, in a telephone interview, said he looked forward to working with the new beauty queen for the betterment of the African child's life.

Nyakaira, officially the second title winner, is expected to emulate her predecessor's accomplishments in charity work.

Source: All Africa

Miss Guyana World set on helping abused women

2007-09-15T11:14:00.000-07:00

By Oluatoyin Alleyne

At age 16, Candace Charles has jumped in at the deep end. Having entered and won the Miss Guyana World Pageant, her short-term focus is representing Guyana ably at the Miss World 2007 Pageant to be held in the Crown of Beauty Theatre, Sanya, China on December 1.

But she tells us she is "still the same Candace when I am at home, nothing really has changed. I still want to become a criminal lawyer and help abused women." Her long-term focus has not changed.

When The Scene caught up with the teenager this week, she said she knew the local pageant would have been a tall order as soon as she realised that she was the youngest contestant - months shy of her 17th birthday which she will celebrate next month. But she had the support of her mother and three older sisters and they boosted her confidence.

In fact, she said, it was on her mother's insistence that she actually entered the pageant, since at first she was not interested and rather was "totally against it." She recalled that she had just finished writing her Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations and was doing work study at the Government Information Agency (GINA), when her mother made the suggestion.

"I had just gone there and I was enjoying it. Because even though I want to become a lawyer I would not mind doing journalism, so I had no interest in entering the pageant," she said. But her mother was determined and Candace said she was eventually worn down and decided to enter the pageant.

Candace Charle

"I am just glad that I have been able to live up to her expectations because she was very confident that I would have won," the young woman said.

It was not her first pageant. Last year she entered the Mother and Daughter Pageant with her mother, but she admits that Miss Guyana World was nothing like the Mother and Daughter Pageant so she had no real experience to take from that pageant.

After entering, she said, she was "a little nervous because I knew I had to work harder. But I said I would not focus on the age I would focus on the competition." Her focus paid off and she won.

Candace said winning has not changed her as her mother, sisters, other relatives and friends along with franchise holder, Derek Moore and his team have helped her to remain firmly grounded. The new queen says she is enjoying the level of support she has been receiving from members of the public. "Up to this morning [Thursday] in the bus a man was congratulating me and that is how it has been. No one has given me any negative response or comment," she said.

However, she is well aware that there are persons out there who feel she is too young to be crowned Miss Guyana World. "I would say to those people, okay I know I am young but will you help to make me better. I am open to constructive criticisms and I will soak up all the advice anyone can give me. I am willing to learn. I am young and I want to learn so if they can help me I would take their advice. I am already the queen and I want all the help to make me stronger."

Candace needs support even more now as she prepares for her big date in December. She told The Scene that the training so far has been hectic, but exciting. It would be stepped up come next month when she travels to the US where she will continue her preparation.

Candace said she was going into the Miss World Pageant with the same amount of confidence and energy she had when she entered the local pageant. "I am not going to focus on how young I am. I am going to try and do my best. And that is all I can do, my best."

Candace, a former St Joseph High School student, sat eight subjects at the CSEC examination. She secured three Grade One passes (two with distinctions), three Grade Two passes and one each at Grade Three and Grade Four. The teenager has every right to be proud of this achievement but she said she was sorely disappointed at her Grade Four in Mathematics, even though she admitted that it was not her favourite subject. She plans on rewriting that subject in January.

She has not put her education on hold as she has already enrolled at the University of Guyana and come next January will pursue a degree in International Relations or Sociology. However, regardless of which one she takes up, it would just be her stepping stone into the law faculty as her ultimate goal is to become a criminal lawyer.

She said she wants to become a criminal lawyer because she wants to help female victims of domestic and other forms of abuse to get justice in the courts. She said she hopes to one day work with the Georgetown Legal Aid Centre. This urge comes from the abuse she witnesses in society almost on a daily basis. "So much more needs to be done for women. Everyday I read in the newspapers of women being killed or beaten and then in the courts they are not getting justice."

Candace noted that the abuse of women has become such a norm that people have become numb and are no longer shocked at the horrific abuse women experience. "Many days I walk down the road and see men beating women and people just stand up there and do nothing; they just say it is personal. People would hear their neighbours being beaten and do nothing," she lamented. She said she wants to make a change no matter how small and she knows she can do so by helping women to get justice. Even as she trains for the pageant she is awaiting a response from Help & Shelter as she has applied to volunteer in its programme for abused women.

Candace grew up in Stanleytown, West Bank Demerara and even though she has a younger brother she is still considered to be the baby of her household as her brother lives in the US. She lives with her mother and three older sisters and she tells us that she is not "Queen Candace" to them, but rather just ordinary Candace who still has to do her chores. "My mom ensures I make my bed up very day and I have to do my household chores and I still have a very strict 9 pm curfew," she said laughing. But she quickly adds that it would not be a laughing matter if she stayed out beyond her curfew as her mother would not hesitate to punish her.

So even though she might be the envy of many girls her age, Candace has to abide by the same rules as her peers, regardless of the fact that she is preparing for the world's second biggest pageant. (samantha_alleyne2000@yahoo.com)

Source: Stabroek News

Role model with a sash: Miss Latina Racine isn't a beauty pageant

2007-09-15T08:22:00.000-07:00

Racine - Tiaras and satin sashes might be part of the process, but Dolores Hernandez insists the Miss Latina Racine competition is not a beauty pageant.

"We're hoping that we can project (the image of) a role model and not just somebody that's hooked on their looks," said Hernandez, an event co-founder.

Members of the Racine County community will honor five young women of Hispanic heritage Friday evening at the scholarship competition's 10th annual dinner.

The competition is open to Latinas from the age of 17 to 24 who demonstrate exceptional educational achievement and a commitment to community service, Hernandez said.

This year's nominees are Maria Becerra, Mariciela Belmares, Rachelle Clemins, Amanda de Leon and Cindy Rios.

One of the five women will be crowned Friday and will receive a $2,000 scholarship. The first runner-up will receive $1,000, and the other participants each will receive $500.

The five members of this year's court have been solidifying their leadership in the community since June, when they were selected as participants, said Sandra Villarreal, secretary of the Miss Latina Racine Scholarship Corp.'s board.

"A lot of times when students go for scholarships it's a matter of filling out some papers and getting a check," Villarreal said.

Not in this competition.

Court members began their tenure by marching in the Fourth Fest parade in celebration of Independence Day.

They partnered with the University of Wisconsin-Parkside chapter of Gamma Alpha Omega, a historically Latina sorority, to host children's activities corner at Racine Mexican Fiesta in August.

They also volunteered their time at the Por La Gente softball tournament in Racine over Labor Day weekend, working on arts and crafts with the children of adults who played ball, Hernandez said.

At Friday's dinner, court members will dine with the panel of seven judges and will present on a topic of interest to them, Villarreal said.

This year's judges includes Racine Unified administrator Jose Martinez.

The first winner of the top prize, Angelica Valdivia, will deliver the keynote speech.

Valdivia is a guidance counselor at Gilmore Middle School.

Kari Villalpando, winner of last year's top prize, remembers banquet night well.

"It was so stressful," said Villalpando, who graduated from St. Catherine's High School. "I was sweating on stage."

Since that night, Villalpando has started her freshman year at Marquette University and later transferred to the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, where she studies nursing.

She said she's looking forward to getting the $2,000 Miss Latina Racine check, which she won't receive until the 2007 winner takes over the crown this week.

In the decade since it formed, the group has distributed from $85,000 to $90,000, event organizers said.

The group's board has started administering three additional scholarships, which are open to men and women and funded by families in Racine.

Hernandez said she, Diana Felix and Sara Montes, who died in 1999 and will be honored Friday, founded the non-profit organization in an effort to lower the Latino dropout rate in Racine Unified.

"We're becoming a positive educational movement within the Latino community," Hernandez said.

The Miss Latina Racine 2007 event will begin at 5:30 p.m. Friday at the Racine Marriott hotel. Tickets are still available and cost $50. For information, call (262) 498-2690.

Source: JS Online

A Sen-sational gesture!

2007-09-14T12:07:00.000-07:00

Sushmita Sen was so taken in by Project Shiksha that she impromptu donated a cheque to help needy kids

Those of you who thought beauty queens only talk about mother Theresa and charity to win beauty contests, Sushmita Sen is out to prove you wrong.

The former Miss Universe, who was a guest at an event by P&G, which made a contribution of 2.27 crore to educate 67,000 needy children under Project Shiksha, was so emotionally moved by it all that she decided to donate some amount for the cause herself.

Not only did Sen donate the cheque, but she also volunteered to pass the hat to everyone present so that they could make their own bit of contribution.

She said, “This is extra-ordinary. I truly believe that our lives are not just ours and every child has a right to education. I am so glad that there are certain people who are making a move towards providing that basic right to these children. Our country’s greatest resource is the human resource and this cause makes good use of it. I would like to start with making a contribution myself and I would like each of you to contribute to this cause. Even one coin will do,” she said in jest.

Actor Konkona Sen Sharma, who was also present at the event, seemed totally awe-struck by Sush’s presence and gesture. “I am truly humbled to be a part of this occasion,” she said.

Source: Daily News & Analysis

New Venezuelan Queens

2007-09-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

Miss Amazonas Dayana Mendoza, a 21-year old professional model and student from Caracas, won on September 13th the title of Miss Venezuela 2007, after beating 27 other aspirants for the coveted title.

Mendoza, who stands 1.76 m tall, will represent Venezuela at the Miss Universe 2008 pageant to be held possibly in Vietnam.

Crowned as Miss World Venezuela was 21-year old Hannelys Quintero, Miss Cojedes. Quintero is 1.76 m tall and is currently pursuing a degree in Psycholgy. She will represent Venezuela at the Miss World 2008 contest.

Miss Venezuela International is 20-year old Dayana Colmenares, from Valencia. The 1.75 m student of Marketing will travel to China to compete for the Miss International 2008 title.

Misses Aragua and Tachira were the 1st and 2nd runners-up, respectively.

Completing the Top 10, where the delegates from Trujillo, Sucre, Barinas, Vargas and Miranda.

Miss Cojedes also won the Miss Photogenic title, while Miss Aragua was chosen Miss Internet.

Notable former beauty queens were among the judges, including reigning Miss International Daniela Di Giacomo; E! Latin America main anchor Daniela Kosan; Carmen Maria Montiel, Miss Venezuela 1984; Anarella Bono, Miss Anzoategui 1997; and Nacarit Molina, noted for being one of the winners in the Miss Tachira 2006 pageant, who lost her arm in a tragic accident while she was in route to one of the main castings in Caracas.

The event, which took place for about 4 hours, was telecast live to the country. The transmission ended abruptly when a deranged pageant fan (right) climbed up on stage and took the crown away from Quintero (Miss World Venezuela). The psycho fan put the crown over his head and started waving to the crowd. He was then taken away by security.

Source: Global Beauties

2007-09-14T11:26:00.000-07:00

Miss Belize 2006, Maria Jeffries and Miss World 2006, Felicita Arzu pose with the eight Miss Belize contestants.

The stage is almost been set and preparations are still underway for the annual Miss Belize Pageant which is to be held on Saturday, September 15, at the Belize City Centre, beginning at 7:30P.M.

Eight beauties from all over the country will compete in the single crown competition, unlike last year where two crowns were awarded.

They are Jenine Thompson, 20, representing Belize Rural North, Keisha Daniels, a 21-year-old primary school teacher of Stann Creek, Iris “Jessie” Medina, 24, of Orange Walk, Sharalee Rodriguez, being the youngest with 18 years, Melanie Lammey and Lorriean Samuels, both 19, along with 20-year-old Tanisha Vernon, and Flareda Belezaire all of Belize City.

Like most years, it’s a pageant of distinction that promises to be an event to remember. In addition to the traditional strolls across the stage and the various costumes, local artists like B-Wood massive from Buttonwood Bay will also entertain the audience. On Wednesday, the young ladies vying for the title were introduced to the press.

According to Executive Director, Margaret Johnson, they have lost five days of training due to Hurricane Dean, but have caught up over the last two days.

“It’s been tedious due to the weather. Nevertheless, I have some very nice young girls going up and we’ve had good participation. I’ve had a lot of applications, but as I had mentioned earlier, I only chose the ones who I thought were ready because we had only a short time to prepare.”

Contestant Tanisha Vernon, during a brief interview with this newspaper mentioned her decision to enter was an inspiration.

“I’ve had a lot of support, but I must say thanks especially to my parents who were my biggest motivators. Being my first time, I thought it would be a great experience. I will also get to meet new friends.”

Reporter also spoke to Melanie Lammey, who is being sponsored by Belize Telemedia Limited. According to the brave at heart, she entered because “as a little girl growing up, I’ve always dreamt about becoming an ambassador to Belize and this pageant will give me the opportunity to become that ambassador.”

She continued, “I also entered this pageant because I really want to prove to myself that I am not as shy as I believe I am.”

These eight women also participated in a swimsuit and fashion competition on Saturday last, September 8. In the end, it was Lorriean Samuels who walked away with both titles.

The present Miss Belize, Maria Jeffries says her last year has been great. Not only had she traveled to numerous places like Merida and the United States, but was also this year’s Costa Maya Queen, which happened just last month in Ambergris Caye. She concluded by saying that if she had a choice, she would not give up her crown because the rewards are overwhelming.

For additional information on the contestants, you can visit their official website at www.missbelize.bz. Tickets can be purchased at any Venus outlet, the Princess Hotel or at D.J. Tambran at $20 for reserve and $10 for general and children before 6:00P.M. on September 13. An additional $10 will be added for those purchased anytime after.

Source: The Reporter

The boom in beauty pageants in the Czech Republic

2007-09-14T11:04:00.000-07:00

By Rosie Johnston

Beauty pageants are by no means just a Czech phenomenon, but the do enjoy a popularity here unparalleled in most of Western Europe. There are scores of different Miss competitions, from the big nationals like Miss Ceske Republiky and Ceska Miss, right down to the more specific titles of Miss Deaf Czech Republic, Miss Roma Czech Republic, and Miss Orphan Czech Republic, to name but a few.

Miloslav Zapletal

Miloslav Zapletal is the owner of one of the biggest beauty pageants in the country - Miss Ceske Republiky, otherwise known as Miss Czech Republic. He explains why he thinks these competitions are so popular in this country:

"Miss competitions aren't too popular in a whole lot of other countries because they have been running for more than 50 years. So they have kind of passed their best there. But 'Miss' competitions were banned here under Communism. We managed to set them up here eventually, and next year, Miss Ceske Republiky will be celebrating its 20th birthday. Maybe for this reason the contest is really very popular here, unlike in Scotland, England, France and Italy."

Tatana Kucharova (middle), photo: Lukas Fronk, www.missczech.com

Tatana Kucharova won this contest back in 2006. She subsequently went on to become Miss World. She disagrees with Miloslav Zapletal, attributing the popularity of such competitions to the reputation they have built up here:

"I think it's because this competition has a really long, long history, this year it will be the 20th Miss Czech Republic. And we have had a few very successful Misses in the past. For example, there was Alena Seredova, she came fourth in Miss World, and Monika Zitkova, she was Miss Europe in 1995. So, that's why I think it is so famous and popular here."

This all sounds very rosy. So, is this really the golden age of the Miss pageant here in the Czech Republic? I asked Miloslav Zapletal:

"Three years ago, we underwent a slight crisis when a rival Miss contest set up in competition. In my opinion, this was a bit of a blow. But in the course of the last couple of years, we have stabilized ourselves a bit. We don't have any problems finding sponsors, we don't have any problems with the staging of the event. So I would say that we are experiencing a second golden age. We are even in talks with the organizers of these international Miss competitions, Miss International, Miss World etc, about staging some of these events here. It's looking promising."

Michaela Malacova

Michaela Malacova is the owner of this rival Miss competition. She set up Ceska Miss back in 2005, when the owners of Miss Universe offered her the license to this pageant. She herself was Miss Czechoslovakia back in 1991, and so has experience from both sides of the competition. She explains what she looks for now in a Miss:

"Definitely beauty is not enough. I can't exclude it. Sure, the girls must be pretty. We have professional photographers and directors helping us choose the right girl. I take a look at how healthy they look, how they move, if they can pose. But this is just the first thing, which you can see. The second thing we are searching for is her personality, whether she can speak foreign languages, whether she can present herself well and represent our country abroad in the big international competitions. We are looking for educated, smart girls, who have something more."

One of Michaela Malacova's successors to the throne is Tatana Kucharova, last year she was crowned Miss Czech Republic, and this year she became Miss World:

"I spent such a long time preparing and I was so happy when it was finished! Before the grand final we needed to do lots of choreography lessons, for the talent part of the show. Every girl had to choose what she wanted to do for the talent part of the show, and I chose dancing. It wasn't easy, and to spend 2 months working on it so intensively, stressed all the time, you know, it wasn't easy for anybody. But it worked! And you, know, you must, when you get that chance, you must."

Michaela Malacova never became Miss World, but is still probably the most well known former Czech beauty queen. Since she won the title, she has worked as a political campaigner for the Civic Democratic party here, set up her own business and married one of the Czech Republic's richest men. Can she still remember how she felt back when she won Miss Czechoslovakia?

Photo: www.ceskamiss.cz

"I had mixed feelings. Sure I was happy, that I was the prettiest girl in the competition, but sure I felt that this is just a game somehow. I was interested in what would happen next. I was really happy to travel and to meet other people. I was just happy that something was happening - that I didn't have to sit at home and watch TV, and wait to find out what will be going on at school the next day. For me, it was a really big change in my life."

Mrs. Malacova says that being pronounced Czech Miss is only the beginning, and that is when the hard work really starts. I asked her about her experiences, that following year:

"Well my experience was that I met many interesting people. I remember that it was a different time. The year was 1991, and the country was changing fast. There was a different atmosphere. I was Miss Czechoslovakia - we were a little bit bigger then. I went everywhere. I was traveling to different cities, people were waiting for me, I was giving many interviews, having my photo taken. I was in Miss Universe, in Bangkok in 1992, I was in Miss Model of the World, some Miss Tourism contest - whatever. And I thought about what I would do with my life, because my dream was never just to be a model or a Miss. And so I went to school in Prague to FAMU - the film and TV academy, and I studied Television Production."

Photo: Lukas Fronk, www.missczech.com

Miloslav Zapletal has been involved in these beauty pageants since they started up here in the 1980s. He explains the way they have changed over the years:

"In the beginning, the girls entering the competition were absolute amateurs. They didn't know what the whole thing was about, and they didn't have the international competitions like Miss World to measure themselves up against. Gradually, as the younger generation started looking at their predecessors, they came to realize that they really have to be talented in some way or another. This is because there is a part of the competition which tests the girls on talent alone. The girls realized they had to learn how walk down a catwalk, like models too. They had to be beautiful as well, of course. So the whole thing started to become more professional."

Michaela Malacova agrees:

Photo: www.ceskamiss.cz

"Everything did become a lot more professional, this is exactly right. These first years were a lot more dependant upon enthusiasm than professionalism. But today, these girls know exactly what they are doing, they are a lot more prepared. But on the other hand it is always the same. There are big expectations, big dreams, sometimes harsh realities. In some ways the young people are similar, in some ways they are different. I think that in the 90s, the girls were ready to do much more, today they are a little bit spoilt, some of them, this is my experience."

Zdenka Sedlackova is a psychologist who has watched the way these competitions have developed over the years. She outlines the type of person who, she thinks, is most likely to enter into such a competition:

"The majority of girls who enter these competitions want to attract attention to their own beauty, and are, I would say, driven by 'consumerist' values. These are elements of our daily life like money, popularity, the possibility of foreign travel, etc. All of these things combine to create a very attractive package for girls who have inherited these values from their parents, let's say."
Photo: www.ceskamiss.cz

And why does she think that Czechs like watching these contests so much?

"Czechs really like to stage and take part in these big, extravagant events. I would say we are a communicative nation, and we like to have these big grand events to talk about. The second thing I would say is that these Miss competitions have a bit of the sheen of the big wide world to them - we have only been part of this outside world for a little while. We are a small country, and we were isolated under communism. So these competitions represent another world for us, even though they have now been around in this country for quite a few years now."

Source: Radio Prague