Tell us about yourself, your family background, your education?

I am a free spirited, compassionate Bahamian woman whom loves meeting people from all walks of life. I grew up in Nassau, Bahamas in a very close family of seven who all enjoy making each other laugh. I am passionate about helping those who are considered “at-risk” to make better choices so their lives can improve for the better. In my spare time I enjoy creating gourmet dishes. I also love swimming, so you’ll often find me basking in the sun on one of our beautiful beaches. I am very proud of that fact that I have been able to put myself through college with hard work and determination. I’ve worked several jobs to earn money for my college education and I’m only a few credits away from receiving my Bachelor’s degree.

What can you tell the world about your country?

The Bahamas is made up of 700 islands and cays that form a 100,000 square mile archipelago extending over 500 miles of the clearest water in the world, and this has been is not just a slogan, it’s been scientifically proven. Each of our islands has its own unique character, so there is an experience to discover for everyone no matter what your preference. We are located just off the southern coast of the United States of America and we like to call ourselves a “closer Caribbean”. However, our greatest asset is not the sun, sand or sea, but the big hearts, open arms, and warm smiles you’ll receive from some of the friendliest people in the world!

Tell us about your hobbies or interests?

Cooking is my passion! I love to express my creativity through my culinary skills. Additionally, I love doing “island” things like crab hunting, fishing, and diving for conchs. I also find solace in writing inspirational messages and I hope one day to leave my mark on the international motivational speaking circuit.

What makes you happy?

Spending time with my two little nieces always puts a smile on my face. They are so innocent, and so open, and they love me unconditionally. They are my inspiration.

Who is the living person you admire most? Why?

I really admire Barack Obama and what he has been able to accomplish at such a young age. He is intelligent, focused, a visionary, and most of all inspirational. A news analyst recently said that he not only wanted to become President, but his desire is to be one of the great Presidents of the United States. I believe that with his drive and compassion he will achieve his mission, and forever etch a favorable place for himself in the annals of history.

What are your preparations for the Miss World 2008 pageant?

I spent a month in Puerto Rico where I was coached by the popular blogger Hector Joaquin Colon Gonzales. We covered everything from stage presence and projection, to wardrobe, to conversational charm, to history and so much more. Since my return home, I’ve been honing my public speaking skills by addressing a number of schools. I’ve also been studying South African history and culture and I’ve been making the necessary physical preparations like working out, skin and hair care, and the like.

How do you feel about your trip to Johannesburg, South Africa? What are your expectations in the contest?

I’m thrilled at the opportunity and I can’t wait to get there! South Africa has such a rich heritage, and I look forward to soaking up the entire experience while there. I am very hopeful that I will do well in the competition. However, while I am confident that my intense preparations will better my chances, I acknowledge that this will be a very tough competition. As they say, may the best woman win – and hopefully that woman will be me!

What is your own definition of beauty?

When a person is comfortable in his or her own skin and is not afraid to show who they really are, I consider that to be beautiful. I’ve seen some very physically attractive people who are less than beautiful because they don’t have the confidence to be themselves. I think once a person is able to do that, their outer appearance become less prominent, and what the world sees is a self assured, focused, secure person. That to me is beautiful.

If you win Miss World 2008, what activities or causes would you intend to focus on during your reign?

I enjoy helping people on the whole, but I am really passionate about assisting at risk young women. Hurting girls grow up to become hurting women, and this is not good for the world. There’s a saying that goes “the hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world”. The last thing this world needs is to be ruled from a place of anger, hurt, and mistrust. If chosen to be Miss World, I would like to spearhead programs that reach out to hurting young women by providing them with the assistance they need financially, emotionally, and spiritually to become strong, self assured women.

Do you have any message to your fans or supporters?

First let me say how grateful I am for all your support! I am so touched and I really appreciate it. I will do my best not to let you down. My word of encouragement to you is to hold onto your dreams no matter what. Remember your destiny and purpose depends on you! Thanks for all your love and support!

Special thanks to MBO President Michelle Malcolm and Miss Bahamas World 2008 Tinnyse Johnson!

<< Return to the homepage