February 13, 2009 - A model agency has launched a Northern Ireland-wide search for a green goddess to take part in the Miss Earth UK 2009.

Londonderry-based Converse Models, are seeking someone to join in the ‘beauties for a cause’ pageant.

The pageant is a modern take on the traditional beauty contest as it adds an environmental awareness twist, with the Miss Earth Northern Ireland 2008 Gemma Walker from Derry leading the search for her replacement.

All applicants are invited to register online at www.missearthuk.co.uk

Regional heats will take place across Northern Ireland, culminating in a grand finale in Belfast this July.

After the Northern Irish eco-beauty is crowned she will join three other UK country winners of Miss Earth UK to travel to the Miss Earth international competition. During their month in the Philippines the delegates are required to attend various environmental seminars and educate people on reducing, reusing and recycling.

The competition, which has contestants from more than 90 countries, concludes with Miss Earth 2009 being crowned in a worldwide televised grand final. Gemma called her time in the Philippines “heaven on earth”.

She said: “It was such an amazing experience to take part in one of the world’s biggest beauty contests. The country is such a fascinating place, from the breath-taking scenery to the incredible people.”

Donal Doherty, director of Converse Models, said he was delighted to have secured the rights to run such a high profile competition.

He said: “Miss Earth is unique in terms of beauty pageants as it has a positive message of promoting environmental awareness across the globe.”

To be a Miss Earth UK contender you must be informed, goal-oriented and committed to playing a part in preserving and protecting the environment for future generations.

The crowned Miss Earth UK Northern Ireland will receive a one-year contract with Converse Models and a portfolio by a leading photographer.

Applicants, who must be between 18 and 26, can register online at www.missearthuk.co.uk or for more information call 028 7128 6767.

Details of regional heats will be on the website. Information on the Miss Earth UK Northern Ireland grand final will be announced at a later date.

Courtesy of Belfast Telegraph | Photo from MissEarth.tv