Congratulations for being the new Miss Universe Guyana! How do you feel?
It took a couple of days for me to realize that I did it. As my schedule got hectic and my first photoshoot happened, it came to me with a burst of emotions that I’m one step closer to accomplishing one of my dreams.
What unique characteristics would you say you bring to the Miss Universe competition?
I think my background and my story are part of my character. Coming from a third world country, I know how the less fortunate live, the struggles they face and the help they need. Coming to Miss Universe, I come with part of my story untold waiting for the remaining chapters to be written by having the opportunity to not only help those in my country, but those around the world.
Social media seem to play a major role in pageantry nowadays. Do you think this is advantageous to you? Why or why not?
I think social media can have a positive role in pageantry. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the help of social media. It allows the public to see the behind the scenes actions of the journey of an ambassador. It also allows you to advocate for social issues that is prevalent in other countries with hope that your voice is being heard and people can help through action.
How would you describe Guyana to your fellow contestants?
I would share my favorite memories of Guyana. The holidays such as Easter spent picnicking at the park with family and friends and flying kites. The food such as cook-up, which is a dish comprised of rice, beans, orcha, a meat of choice and many other ingredients all cooked together in one pot. I also describe our people as a cook-up, they are of different ethnicity, background, religious and political differences all in one country. Guyana is known for its majestic and beautiful Kaieteur Falls which is the highest single drop falls in the world and for the its rich natural resources.
Some people think that beauty pageants like Miss Universe are degrading to women. Convince them that they are wrong.
Whenever I’m crowned, I like to say I’m an ambassador for my country, not a queen. In pageants, you’re a representation of a country, its people and it’s culture. Pageant are about empowering women to be proud of who they are. Each woman in the pageant has a goal, whether it is to be more confident or have healthier habits. Being on that stage on final night is a check mark of that goal. Which other system, whether in the business industry or TV industry, can say they have over 80 WOMEN under one roof who are passionate about their country and wants to make a change for the betterment of it.
Your favorite beauty queen?
I honestly don’t have a favorite queen. I think that each woman that has received the title has done it with poise and elegance and I look up and admire each and everyone of them. They’ve shown that it takes more than beauty to be a Miss Universe.
