From Miss Intercontinental to greater things
Lara Dutta
The Miss Intercontinental Pageant began as a tourism competition to attract tourists to the island of Aruba in 1971. Since then it has grown into an annual event drawing beautiful and talented young women from across the world.
This year for the very first time the Miss Intercontinental pageant comes to Sri Lanka when on October 16 after more than a week spent experiencing the island’s diverse beauty, the contestants will take the stage at the Stein Studios in Ratmalana to make their final pitch for the crown.
The pageant itself has changed vastly over the past 45 years mirroring the fast-paced world of today. The pageant has become a pathway to success with many past title holders venturing into high profile careers in business, finance, administration, film and fashion.
These are women of grace, commitment, intelligence, style and substance and they have gone on to make their mark in the international arena. Verona Pooth was crowned Miss Germany in the year 1993 and won the Miss Intercontinental title in the same year. Subsequent to her win, she went onto make a career as a German television personality and actress. She also owns the famous line of lingerie called ‘Verona’s Dreams’ which has recently been extended to costume jewellery.
Brazilian beauty Jana Ina, Miss Intercontinental 1976, is famous for her television shows ‘Giga’ and ‘World league sports Bundesliga’, as well as the reality show ‘Das Model und der Freak,’ ‘The Die Oliver Posher show’ etc. She also has two records with star composer Leslie Madoki.
Another remarkable winner closer home is Lara Dutta, Miss Intercontinental in 1997. She scored the highest marks in the Miss Intercontinental pageant history and went on the do the same at the Miss Universe pageant three years later. She is a successful model and Bollywood star who recently ventured into film production as well.
Dominique Hourani
Supermodel, designer of a lingerie line, singer, actress and famous personality, Dominique Hourani was crowned Miss Intercontinental in 2003. She is the world’s first Arab super model, working with designers such as Dior, Valentino and Versace.
With a fairytale theme, Miss Intercontinental 2016 conceptualized by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and powered by EGB will be held at Stein Studios on October 16 from 6 p.m. onwards.
Tickets for the pageant will be available on www.wow.lk and are priced at Rs. 3500, 5000, 7500 and 10,000. Pop artist Apache Indian who rocketed to fame with his smash-hit ‘Boom Shack A Lack’ and celebrated music artist Destiny will perform at the pageant.
There will also be an exclusive after-party with more celebrity performances.