D’Banj, Don Jazzy, TuFace Idibia others shine in New York

By FEMI SALAWU

Pix: Sun News Publishing

Afro-Pop sensation, D’Banj, popularly called Koko Master and Don Jazzy were exceptional among other musicians at the just concluded Nigeria Entertainment Awards which held at the Skirball Center for Performing Arts, New York. D’Banj displaced top contender, Paul Play Dairo, by walking away with two awards including Best Afro-Pop Artiste of the Year and Hottest Single of the Year with his hit song: Why Me, while Don Jazzy won Music Producer of the year.

Suprisingly, Paul Play Dairo, who was nominated in four categories including Afro-Pop act of the year, Producer of the year, Hottest Single of the Year for the hit song, Angel Of My Life, and Album of the year for Hitsville did not win any award. However, organisers say the award was strictly determined through SMS and internet votes most of which came from Nigerians in Diaspora.

The well attended event, according to a release signed by Tope Esan, organiser of the awards, also featured musical performances by gospel artiste, Sammy Okposo and last year’s RnB winner, Banky, who picked-up the Best Gospel Artiste of the Year and Best International Single of the Year respectively. Other musicians who brightened the evening include: Gospel Jazz sensation, Mike Aremu, as well as America-based Nigerian musicians such as Madarocka, Balk Jesus, Iceberg Slim, Adama and Alache, among others.
Other artistes who made the winners’ list, include: African Queen crooner, TuFace Idibia for Best Album of the Year with Grass2Grace, P Square for Bizzy Body remix featuring Weird Mc, Lagbaja as Indigenous Musician of the Year, Tosin Martins as Best New Act of the Year and Femi Kuti, who emerged as NEO Afrobeat Artiste of the Year.

Nigerian musicans in Diaspora also had a good outing as Eldee’s Return of the King won Best International Album of the year, while MIC Tunes emerged Best International Producer of the Year. Others include: RCCG: Jesus Choir, DC (Best International Gospel Choir); DJ Zimo(Battle of US-Based DJs) and Big Moose (US-Based Entertainment Promoter of the Year).
In the movie category, the trio of Ramsey Nouah, Stella Damasus-Aboderin and Tade Ogidan won Nollywood Best Actor, Best Actress and Best director respectively for their roles in the movie Dangerous Twins.

Interestingly, Julius Agwu, who compered the show and thrilled the audience with rib-cracking jokes, emerged Funniest Comedian of the Year. In a keenly contested sports category, Obafemi Martins beat other nominees including World Heavyweight Boxing Contender, Samuel Peters to emerge as Athlete of the Year.

Former Miss World, Agbani Darego, made a surprise appearance at the event which attracted the cream of Nigerian show business industry personalities including Super model, Oluchi, Fashion Designer, Frank Oshodi, CNN’s Lola Ogunnaike, 2003 Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria, Omotu Blessing, among others. Although the show did not receive enough coverage in the media, organisers, however, promised to have it aired on Nigerian and American TV channels at a later date, adding that the NEA will return next year with more glitz and glamour.

Source: Sun News Online

Taking On the World

By Kirthana Ramisetti

“I don’t think of myself as a beauty queen,” Riyo Mori says as she kicks up her feet in the air, smiling charmingly while her hair is styled for the East West photo shoot. Over the past few months, the former dance student has attended star-studded events, auditioned for a hit primetime series and is set to star in a reality show. Yet, she still has an air of wonder about the myriad of ways in which her life has been transformed since winning the Miss Universe 2007 crown.

Her joy and gratitude for all she has experienced so far has not been dampened by a busy schedule of appearances and interviews. Mori even manages to look surprisingly fresh and lovely after hiking up five flights of stairs to the New York City photography studio on one of the hottest days of the summer. Kah Leong Poon, the photographer, notes that he could take her pictures as is—wearing a simple white T-shirt, jeans and stylish wedge heels that add an extra few inches to her 5 foot 8 inch frame. Mori may not consider herself a beauty queen, but she looks every bit the part.

Growing up in Shizuoka, Japan, the rising star says she never dreamed that she would one day be crowned the winner of an international beauty pageant—but her grandmother did. In fact, she told Mori that she wanted her to become Miss Japan before the age of 20.

“My grandmother encouraged me to apply for the Miss Japan contest,” Mori says. “She said I should try to make good memories.” Mori adds that she would have never thought to enter the pageant herself. Even when she arrived at the competition, she says, she still felt out of place. “When I entered Miss Japan last year, I felt, wow, those girls are so beautiful—I could never be one of them.”

Devoted to dance, her “love and passion,” from an early age, Mori was a fixture at her mother’s ballroom dance studio as early as age 4. But once she became a teenager, Mori was ready to leave home, eager to seek new experiences. “I was 16 when I moved because I wanted to learn dance outside of my mom’s studio. It was a safe place where I knew the people, and I wanted to challenge myself in a different environment.” She studied abroad in Ontario, Canada, and was enrolled in ballet school and high school simultaneously. Three years later, it was time to make the move to New York City, where she continued to pursue dance and quickly became enamored with the idea of joining the Radio City Rockettes.

“That was my big goal. I was reading a dance magazine at my ballet school two years ago, and I was trying to think of my future, because I’m too tall to be a ballerina. When I was on point shoes, I would be too tall to have any partner to dance with. And I found this article about the Rockettes, and I thought they are so glamorous and have beautiful costumes. I thought it was perfect for me because I have the kick!” she demonstrates by half-raising her leg with a laugh.

Mori had just achieved her New York ambitions—finding an apartment and receiving acceptance to the Broadway Dance Center—when she learned she had made it into the Miss Universe Japan finals, which she had auditioned for during summer vacation. Without hesitation, she returned to Japan to participate in the pageant. She won the title in March and her now whirlwind life was set in motion.

Mori then traveled to Mexico City in May for the Miss Universe pageant, one of 77 representatives from around the world. During the event, she received the highest score in the swimsuit category and won fourth place in the evening gown competition even though her dress, a kimono-inspired gown with flowing black fabric and floral design from Gucci’s spring/summer line, was a last-minute choice. Mori says she ultimately picked the dress for its comfort and because she felt she looked like a “black butterfly.” And when she won and took her first walk as the newly crowned Miss Universe, her choice of dress—eschewing traditional slinky gowns for a long-sleeved garment with ethnic flair—was refreshing for what it communicated about Mori and her affinity for her country.

She is the first woman from Japan to hold the crown in 48 years and only the second Miss Universe ever from the country. Despite the historic nature of her win, Mori’s memories of the night are a blur, especially when her name was announced as the winner. “To be honest, I don’t remember because I was so excited, so shocked. A few seconds later I think I realized what had happened, and I was so happy. Not only for me, but for my parents because we went through so much together. They were worried about me being in a beauty pageant because I quit my school in New York and everything to be there.”

One memory that does stand out from her crowning night: seeing her grandmother in the audience after Mori had fulfilled her wish. She had been crowned not only Miss Japan like her grandmother had hoped, but also Miss Universe, and she had done it all before her 21st birthday.

The crown has already afforded Mori two opportunities in a medium that is completely new to her: television. She received the chance to audition for a role in “Heroes,” as Masi Oka’s character’s love interest, an experience she describes as “kind of embarrassing, but challenging and fun because I have never acted before.” Acting, however, isn’t a factor on another TV show in which Mori will definitely be starring. Donald Trump and MTV have come together to produce a reality show, currently titled “Pageant Place,” about the three title winners in Trump-sponsored pageants living together in New York City during their respective reigns. Mori currently lives with Miss USA Rachel Smith and Miss Teen USA Katie Blair, and enjoys living with them, referring to her roommates as being like sisters. As for the show itself, which is expected to hit televisions by the end of the year, the concept of a reality show seems to hold both excitement and befuddlement. “I’ve never done it before, so I don’t know what to do.” She pauses, and then asks, “Kinda scary, because the cameras are always with us, right?”

Eager to try new things and open to every opportunity, Mori recognizes that life is now beaming toward a new direction. “If I was just a student in Japan, I’d just meet students and teachers. I’d never get to meet you guys!” she says as she raises her arms to indicate the various people in the room. She says encountering so many different people, from movie stars to hairstylists, is her favorite aspect of being Miss Universe.

She also embraces the fact that winning the title makes her a role model, especially to young girls from her native country. Mori has been blogging about her experience ever since making the finals of Miss Japan last year, and she will continue to blog during her reign as Miss Universe. “I want to let my fans know what I’m doing, because they don’t actually know what Miss Universe does.” (Read Mori’s blog at http://myblog.ask.jp/muj_riyo_mori/).

As for life after the Miss Universe ride ends, Mori already has some ideas, and says her goal is to open her own international dance studio in Tokyo and eventually get married and start a family.
“My mother raised me and my brother and also had a successful dance studio,” adds Mori, saying her mother is her inspiration. “She had to take care of her parents and she still raised us and had her school. And she never complained—she was always happy.” Mori hopes to influence other young women in the same way her mother has influenced her. “My mother taught me that women can have it all. You don’t have to choose between having a family or career. You can do both.”

For now, however, Mori looks forward to wherever life as Miss Universe takes her next, and she takes comfort in knowing that one thing will always remain constant. “I always have been myself—what you see is what you get.”

Source: East West Magazine

No slowing down

Stories by CHOW HOW BAN

Charlie See: Father of Pageantries - Part 1

Charlie See: Father of Pageantries - Part 2

Charlie See turned 97 yesterday. The Penang-born founder of Festival of Beauty Inc, which holds rights to 37 pageant titles worldwide, shows no sign of slowing down despite his age.

THANK God I am still alive,” said Charlie See who turned 97 yesterday. See, founder of Model of the Models International Pageant, currently on in Madrid (Sept 1-8), celebrated his birthday at the Spanish capital. See and his wife of 57 years, Ann, were invited by pageant president, Raquel Molinero, to spend a week in Spain.

In a recent interview in Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China, See talked about his early struggles and how he found fame in the United States.

Charlie See: ‘“Everybody dreams about Hollywood. I made dream girls from all over the world my contacts!’

Born in Penang in 1910, See moved to Raub with his family because his father’s job took him to Pahang. After his primary education, he returned to Penang, where he learned English and French.

“After my father died, I tried to do some business and opened a sports store selling badminton rackets,” See recalled.

“Then I became a member of the Rotary Club. In 1935, I went on a world tour. I travelled from Penang to Colombo and then to Europe. As a Rotary Club member, I spoke to the Rotarians of Colombo about Malaysia. From Colombo, I went to Pakistan and Bombay before landing in Europe.”

See promoted Malaysia to Rotarians from other parts of the world. “I gave them a flag and they gave me a flag (in return). I was doing publicity and goodwill on behalf of Malaysia, but that was a long time ago.”

See’s travels took him to Paris, London and New York. He left a deep impression on the Americans.

“At your age, I was making jokes. I said: ‘I come to New York and you got skyscrapers because you think you can go to heaven easier.’ They laughed and said: ‘You Chinaman?’ and I said ‘yes’ and they said ‘We want you. Can you represent us and go to Rotary Clubs around the US?’

“They gave me top hotel accommodation and paid me. I went all over the United States for free.”

From there, See headed for Shanghai where he met six Chinese men. They ended up speaking English. It was the first time See realised that the Shanghainese and other Chinese were different as there were so many dialects spoken by the Chinese.

His boat then sailed to Manila before returning to Malaysia. He had travelled around the world in four years, and so he wrote a book entitled A Chinese Sees the World to share his experiences.
Hungry for more exposure, See left for Singapore in 1939. There he landed a job as manager of the Happy Cabaret, which provided entertainment to guests on cruises. See also organised fashion shows featuring his own batik designs.

See with Audrey Hepburn

The threat of war loomed over them, and See knew the risks he had to take. After his vessel left Singapore and arrived in Indonesia, they received news that Singapore had been bombed.

“I was stuck in Indonesia for a month and continued organising shows in Bali. At that time, I had a visa to travel from Malaysia to the US as a marketing agent.

“After Singapore was bombed, every day the Japanese and Germans were sinking ships. We had with us a convoy of ships sending the last shipment of rubber because the Japanese had cut everything off,” he recalled.

Of the 17 boats that left Surabaya in Java, 16 were sunk. See, together with 12 other passengers and 49 prisoners held in captivity by the Indonesian government, escaped death when the captain of the ship headed towards the Atlantic Ocean.

When they reached South America, they put down the prisoners and continued their journey to the United States.

“When my boat arrived in New York, I had no money. I had only wooden carvings and sarung batik,” See said. “I sold the carvings to feed myself.”

Jack of all trades

While in the United States, See met a Chinese ballroom dancer who taught him some basic dance moves. The duo later picked up the samba and rumba from a coach.

As the Chinese jitterbugs were in great demand in the dance scene at that time, See and his partner found some dancing parts in small theatres.

Later, when See heard that the famous Folies Bergere was heading for New York, he jumped at the chance to audition for the French show, which featured a Chinese dance sequence.

“I passed! So after six months, Charlie See was dancing on Broadway!”

See with Ava Gardner

The ever-versatile See turned professional dancer and performed in Hawaii and various places for six years.

At 39, he moved to California in pursuit of his Hollywood dream. There he met his wife, Ann, an actress. They teamed up as professional ballroom dancers.

Ever game for a new challenge, the couple reinvented themselves as photojournalists. They went all over the United States and the Caribbean, taking photographs and distributing stories on Hollywood to news agencies from all over the world.

During their Hollywood days back in the 1950s, the couple rubbed shoulders with the likes of Elizabeth Taylor and the late John Wayne, who lived in the same neighbourhood.

When the first-ever Miss Universe beauty pageant was held in Long Beach, California, in 1952, See and Ann knew they would not want to miss the event. However, See could not get access to the auditorium. He was stopped by the police because he did not have a media pass to cover the event. Undaunted, he sneaked through the back door to cover the event.

“For the first eight years, the Miss Universe pageants were held in Long Beach. I made friends with everybody there,” said See.

His big break came in 1957 when Universal Studios, one of the pageant’s sponsors, wanted to produce a film on the pageant.

“For five days, they were looking for someone with coloured films. They had heard about a Chinaman who had coloured films. So one night, someone from Universal Studios called me and said: ‘You Charlie See? You got Miss Universe film?’ and asked if the film was good.

“I told them if I had to spend 10 dollars, it had better be good. So Ann and I tied the films up. A Cadillac came to our house and ferried me to Universal Studios where they viewed my 35mm film.”

Miss Universe cameraman

A representative from Universal Studios negotiated with See on the price of the films. See asked for US$10,000 but had to settle for US$5,000. He was made the official cameraman for the Miss Universe pageants.

“When Universal Studios released the film, all the outdoor scenes were mine. I became famous with a US$40 camera,” he said.

See sold his photographs to another sponsor, Max Factor, which assigned him to photograph former Miss Universe winners such as Gladys Zender from Peru (1957), Luz Marina Zuluaga of Colombia (1958), and Akiko Kojima from Japan (1959), during the beauties’ tours.

See described Zender as a big star. “Zuluaga generated a tremendous following in America as she had her own stamps and songs written after her”.

“I travelled with Kojima for six months in Japan, Hong Kong and Malaysia.”

During the interview, See pulled out stacks of photographs of beauty queens and celebrities from his drawer and showed them to me, one by one. Some were taken by him, others by his assistant.

“Here I am with Marilyn Monroe,” See enthused, adding that he was the photographer when the Hollywood legend attended the premiere of her film, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.

See related that he had small acting jobs too. He was a Japanese soldier in the 1950 wartime film, Three Came Home, which starred Claudette Colbert, Patric Knowles and Sessue Hayakawa.

“He brings along his photos wherever he goes and he enjoys showing them to people. It’s a compilation of his life’s work and he’s the only one who does this kind of work,” Ann chipped in.

“Ann and I had been photographing the stars,” See said. “I didn’t always travel with Ann though. Don’t forget it’s not easy with beauty queens around you. When I am alone taking photographs, it’s hard.”

One of See’s most memorable experiences was when he bought their house in Hollywood for US$3,000. That was back in 1950.

“When he was in Penang and Singapore, he was overwhelmed by Hollywood. It was his destination. He dreamed of living in Hollywood,” Ann added.

“Everybody dreams about Hollywood. I made dream girls from all over the world my contacts!” said See, with a twinkle in his eye.

Following his vast experiences in covering beauty pageants, See decided to organise his own pageants, and founded the Festival of Beauty Inc in the United States. That was more than 40 years ago.

See’s trademark pageants include Miss Globe International, Miss Tourism Queen International, Miss Tourism International, Miss Bikini International and Model of the Models International.

See is now wheelchair-bound following a fall two years ago. Apart from the lack of mobility and diminished hearing capacity, he is pretty healthy. He still works hard, travelling all over the world to attend pageants and is busy franchising his trademark pageants.

Molinero said See had become part of her family and his contribution to beauty pageants was tremendous as many contestants had benefited from their participation in such pageants.

“He has achieved the dream of many men – to live in Hollywood, meet important people and be surrounded by beauties,” Ann added.

Source: The Star Online

'Ball' looks forward to biggest day

By Lerpong Amsa-ngiam

Paradorn Srichaphan might have no matches to play for the rest of the season, but he has loads of off-court errands to keep him fully occupied before his wedding.

Still nursing a nagging wrist injury, the groom-to-be has so many things to do for the biggest day in his life when he will marry Canadian Natalie Glebova, the 2005 Miss Universe.

The guest list still has to be completed and the invitation cards printed, while the wedding venue has yet to be chosen.

Being so busy making arrangements, the former world No 9 has to delay returning to the tennis circuit.

"Everything is going just fine. We will have a normal wedding, nothing huge like everyone expects,'' said Paradorn, who has been taking a break to heal his tendonitis since March.

Rumours had spread through the Internet and tabloids that their romance had turned sour and the wedding might not happen. But the couple have just had a wedding photo-shoot in a studio, underlining their bonds are still strong.

"She is happy. We have lots of fun together,'' said Paradorn.

The day they will say "I do" is set for November 29 in Bangkok. VIP guests will include reigning Miss Universe Riyo Mori from Japan and two former top 10 players, Tommy Haas and Nicholas Kiefer from Germany.

Despite his absence from the upcoming Thailand Open, Paradorn plans to deliver wedding invitations to fellow players. For him, it's agony to skip the home tournament where he dreams of lifting a trophy in front of his fans.

"It's a pity that I have to give a pass it this year. But fans still have big names like Raphael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to root for. I suggest fans go and watch these guys,'' said the two-time semi-finalist of the country's only ATP Tour event.

As tennis is in his blood, "Super Ball" cannot help catching up with "who is hot, who is not" at the ongoing US Open, where he reached the fourth round in 2003.

"I miss the Tour and imagine that I was there. Hopefully, I can get back to the Tour as soon as possible." But the five-time ATP Tour winner is still nursing a wrist injury. "The wrist is coming along slowly. It's getting better, but I'm not going to play until next year. And I'm not going to rush,'' said the currently 110th-ranked player, whose earliest comeback event could be the Australian Open in January next year.

Paradorn believes he still has the game and the ammunition to return to the elite group. "It's a challenge to do well again after the injury. Hopefully I will get back into the top 50 again."

Source: The Nation

Music, Air and Light: HOMES to Launch the Plaza Costa del Este at the Famed Vizcaya Gardens

Homes Real Estate is proud to announce the upcoming launch of the Plaza Costa del Este located in the heart of Panama, an exciting mixed-use tower combining the talents of Latin America's most renowned designers, architects and developers. The exclusive and over the top September 8 launch gala in Miami, Florida, will feature a performance by Grammy award-winning Salsa sensation, Gilberto Santarosa and a special appearance by the former Miss Panama and the title winner of Miss Universe 2003, Justine Pasek.

(PRWEB) September 3, 2007 -- Homes Real Estate is proud to reveal the launch of the highly-anticipated Plaza Costa del Este, a gleaming tower of air and light on Panama City's waterfront.

The exclusive gala event to mark the project's launch will take place September 8 in Miami, Florida, at the famed, historical Vizcaya Gardens. This invitation-only gala will introduce South Florida's elite to the innovative and awe-inspiring architecture and design that will be The Plaza Costa del Este in Panama. Miami's finest tastemakers will join in the celebration as HOMES, the world's leading brokerage and development firm, opens their newest office on the famed Biscayne Boulevard. The evening of cocktails, dancing, and live music will be completed with a performance by Grammy award-winning Salsa sensation, Gilberto Santarosa and an appearance by the former Miss Universe 2003, Justine Pasek.

Featuring the clean, sleek lines of architect MusAsvat, this mixed-use project integrates function with the pleasure of the senses. Hotel accommodation and management are provided by The Octagon Group, a European landmark with a strong philosophy, redefining the boutique hotel with unique, carefully chosen details and ultimate comfort for the business traveler.

Set on the waterfront overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Plaza Costa del Este is located in Panama's hottest residential district. Just minutes from downtown Panama and the Tocumen International Airport, residents will enjoy the tranquility and luxury of ultimate living, with access to all of Panama City's finest amenities and the tropical beauty beyond. Gilberto Santarosa, one of the first proud owners of a condominium in the The Plaza-Costa Del Este, remarks, "I am extraordinarily proud to be part of this project. I am proud to call it my home."

Developed by A2SN, a development group responsible for many of Panama's most successful projects, the tower will combine luxury two-storey lofts, condominium apartments, as well as 150 five-star boutique hotel quarters for the `high-end traveler.

All residents and guests will have access to the complex's Spa, Sky Beach and Business Center, as well as an exclusive Beach Club on Contadora Island, the jewel of the Pearl Islands Archipelago. The Plaza's entertainment complex also includes a Theater, on-site restaurant and swimming pool.

HOMES and The Plaza Costa Del Este will undoubtedly deliver an evening that will represent the decadence, beauty and social scene that Miami has become known for.

About Homes Real Estate

Homes Real Estate is a pioneer of the integrated, multi-service approach to real estate investments abroad. Our management team offers a combined 50 years real estate expertise in both the Central and North American markets.

For more than five years, Homes has offered clients inside access to the burgeoning real estate market in Panama, emphasizing quality both in its offerings and in client care.

Our experienced staff provides clients with expert assistance and insights into every aspect of living, buying and investing in Panama, now considered one of the best business and retirement destinations in the world. We believe our clients should have access to the widest range of professional services can under one roof, and we consider ourselves to be the leading source of comprehensive real estate services in Panama today.

Homes offers thorough expertise in all legal, immigration and visa services, helping clients to secure their investments and gain residency abroad. We also offer a full range of financial services to ensure our clients can conduct their business transactions smoothly and worry-free.

Our team includes fully licensed brokers and developers in the Republic of Panama, with a portfolio of the most exclusive projects available in Panama today. From beach front to mountain top, vacation getaway to urban destinations, we help clients find exactly what they are looking for -- and more.

We have six locations to serve you: Panama City, New York, Miami, Toronto, Venezuela and Spain.

Source: E-Media Wire

Dazzling Dias

SUNIL D'CRUZ (Contributor)


In an interview with our writer in Muscat, Miss India-World Sarah-Jane Dias says she's all set to represent her country at the Miss World pageant in China.

MISS INDIA World Sarah-Jane Dias was recently on a week-long break to Muscat to visit her parents Eustace and Yolanda and sister Ellen-Rose. She had her hands full, hosting the 'Anup Jalota Live in Concert' show, attending functions meeting dignitaries, launching new vehicles and meeting her childhood friends.

At the age of 14, while at school in Muscat, she won the Miss India-Oman crown. Having won the Miss India-World 2007 title, the 24-year-old who loves music and travelling. is all set to represent India at the Miss World pageant in China.

Excerpts from an interview:

Having spent your childhood schooling in Muscat, how does it feel to be back on your first visit as Miss India-World?

It is an unreal feeling. As a child, I always had this dream, something that I would watch on TV. It's nice to come back home. Muscat will always be my home. It's nice to have friends and others coming to you, congratulating you, appreciating you. It's like a dream.

How are you preparing for the Miss World pageant?

The Miss World pageant will be held on December 1 in China. I will be leaving India for China on November 1. Right now, I am taking diction classes, catwalk classes and fitness classes in India. Everything that a Miss World contestant would need is taken care of, including hair and teeth by the experts. So I am fully equipped for the Miss World pageant.

What are the factors that contribute towards being a winner in a beauty contest?

It's not just beauty. One has to be very presentable, well spoken. But what surpasses everything is confidence.

What would be your advice to those having stage-fright?

Practice makes perfect. Keep facing the camera, keep participating, keep practicing. It will make you more comfortable.

Which of the former Miss Worlds from India, Reita Faria, Aishwarya Rai, Diana Hayden, Yukta Mookhey and Priyanka Chopra, do you look up to?

All of them. It takes a lot of courage and strength. I look up to any woman who has participated in a Miss World pageant.

You are a multi-talented personality. Singing, dancing, anchoring, acting and modelling are your passions. Which do you enjoy doing most?

(laughs) Don't make me choose. But I would say singing.

How would you look back on your stint as a VJ on Channel [V]?

It was the best job I ever had. I enjoyed every bit of the three-and-a-half years that I was on Channel [V]. They were very supportive all through and allowed me to leave the job at short notice to participate in the Miss India contest.

You are in an off-beat career, instead of a usual 9 - 5 job.

How do you look at it?

I would never be able to do a 9 - 5 job though I have the highest regard for those who do. I am a Sagittarian and am basically restless and need a change. Every day is different for me. No two days are alike.

Are you open to acting in movies?

Yes I am open to acting in Bollywood and Hollywood movies.

Who would you like to be marooned with on an island?

Bob Marley. Music is my life and will always be. Ever since I was a child, I just love music.

What are the causes would you like to take up should you win the Miss World crown?

Animals, children, senior citizens, Aids awareness. Global warming is reaching an alarmingly dangerous level. But one doesn't need to wear a crown to take up causes. I'd never say no if someone needs help.

Source: Khaleej Times Online

Richa Adhia’s coronation draws mixed reactions

By Abdallah Msuya

RICHA Adhia was announced Vodacom Miss Tanzania 2007 on Saturday night, drawing mixed reactions from the audiences as some cheered, while others muttered words of disproval.

The 19-year-old led a clean sweep of the top three positions for the Dar es Salaam beauty queens. Lilian Abel from Kinondoni finished second, while Queen David from Temeke finished third.

But the judges’ decision in everything is final, and Richa will therefore fly the Tanzanian flag at the Miss World beauty pageant later this year in China.

She received the crown together with a brand new RAV 4 car worth 45m/- and 8m/- cheque.

Richa particularly impressed the panel of judges, led by Miss World 2001 Agbani Darego, with her confidence and articulate answers to questions.

Richa, who was dressed in white long dress, was asked about her favourite colour to which she responded ‘white’, explaining that the colour symbolized peace and cleanness for her.

After the Q&A session, which involved the best five, and colourful performance by the THT group, Miss World 2001 Agbani Darego, who was the chief judge, stepped forward to announce the winner.

“Vodacom Miss Tanzania 2007 is contestant number 6, Richa Adhia!” the Nigerian beauty queen announced, attracting cheers and murmurs.

The nervous Adhia stepped forward to thank hundreds of fans packed in the Leaders Club grounds before replacing Wema Sepetu from the Queen’s chair.

Some fans gave her a cold shoulder but many others who don’t consider race as an attribute for winning Miss Tanzania, cheered the new queen.

Members of the jury were Agbani Darego (chairperson), Prashanti Patel, Jacqueline Ntuyabaliwe, Irene Madeje, Sophia Dianaku, Salum Kombo, Leons Mtauna, David Minja, Christian Masiaga and coordinator of the judges, Ramesh Shah.

Source: Sunday News