• Can you describe to us a typical day at the Miss Venezuela beauty school?
Well, three months prior to the national pageant, all the girls are herded to the Miss Venezuela beauty school. A typical day would start at the gym, then you have to attend oratory classes and rehearsals for dance and walking. Osmel Sousa, world-renowned beauty queen-maker and president of the Miss Venezuela organization, makes sure that every girl is trained and given individual attention as to what their weaknesses and strengths are. His team of surgeons (both cosmetic and dental), dermatologists, nutritionists, make-up artists, hairstylists, image consultants, choreographers etc. meet often to determine if the girls are adequately prepared for the national finals.

• What do you usually eat in the beauty school?
Our weights are strictly monitored there. You can have cereals, non-fat milk and fruits for breakfast then tuna or chicken breast and rice for lunch and dinner. Every girl has a different diet regimen depending on her weight and how fast or slow her metabolic rate is. It is a scientific process, I guess. I won the swimsuit award in the Miss Earth pageant, I guess my hard work in the gym paid off. I have to confess that I have gained three pounds during my entire stay in Manila. I cannot resist Lechon, Lapu-lapu and mangoes!!! The mangoes here are the sweetest I have ever tasted!

• What have you learned in the Miss Venezuela pageant?
I have learned to respect my competitors and to enjoy the experience even if we are competing against each other. We still found time for fun and lasting friendships. I am close with the new Miss Venezuela, Jictzad Viña, who will be our representative for this year's Miss Universe pageant.

• In a recent global survey, Venezuelan men and women are declared as the vainest in the world, how true is this?
I do not think it is vanity. It's just that we are expected to look good because of the impression that we are the most beautiful people in the world. I believe that Venezuelans try to look good not only physically but they also pay attention to their emotional and spiritual well-being as well.

• Has the deluge of beauty queens affected the psyche of your nation?
For a small country with a population of over 26 million, people really take pride on having many global pageant winners. Our country is known all over the world not only for having beautiful women but also good-looking men. We do not have royalties in Venezuela; our beauty queens become the symbol of our nation. They become role models because they are also women of substance.
 

• Is it true that people in the poorest sector of Venezuelan society would prioritize buying cosmetic products over basic needs?
That is quite an exaggeration. We tend to buy a lot of beauty products but we still know our priorities. Surveys revealed that around 70% of our budget is spent on cosmetic products alone but that does not  mean we never allot money for basic needs.

 • More and more people undergo cosmetic surgery in your country, what is your view on this?
We are an open society in Venezuela. It does not bother me if people undergo cosmetic surgery. If it would make them happy and give them the confidence that they need, then by all means, give them that chance. It is big news though if a Miss Venezuela underwent surgery but for ordinary people, it is acceptable. (Osmel was quoted during an interview that God made plastic surgeons for a purpose and that people should utilize them - FM)

• In your opinion, what makes Venezuelan women beautiful?
I believe that anyone can spot a Venezuelan in a crowd. It is probably in the way we carry or conduct ourselves. People tend to expect more from us because of our record in the pageant scene. We are also a mixture of different races and this is probably the reason why we have such diverse beauties in our country. My mother is German and my father has Euro-Venezuelan ancestry, so the interesting mix of genes can be a plus factor.

• What was your reaction when you were proclaimed Miss Earth?
Actually, it is funny because I did not realize it right away. After the 2nd runner up was called, Miss Dominican Republic asked me if the first name to be called out would be the winner. We got confused amidst the screams and shrieks from the audience. After she was called, I saw her sash and it read "Miss Earth," I did not see the Air part. I moved to the side, and then all suddenly I was surprised to see Priscilla Meirelles approaching me with the crown. It was then that I knew I won. You would recall that during rehearsals I was Miss Air and Miss Dominican Republic was Miss Earth. I thought it was the same thing all over again.

• How did people in Venezuela react when you won Venezuela's first ever Miss Earth title?
They were happy of course. The last major title we won was in 2003 courtesy of Miss International Gozeider Azua Barrios. I felt overjoyed with the kind of welcome they had given me when I got home.

• You have a twin sister, would you encourage her to join Miss Venezuela?
Carina and I are very close. This is the longest time we have been apart. I would encourage her to join the pageant because the experience is unparalleled. I have never imagined myself to become a beauty queen. I have been in the modeling business for five years and I just tried my luck in the national pageant and look where it has brought me.

• Any beauty secrets you would like to share with her and for other women as well?
Always wash and cleanse your face especially after wearing make up. It is important to eat a balanced diet and undertake regular exercise.

• Any plans of joining show business in the Philippines or Venezuela?
I would love to appear on TV or movies. I've learned from you that Mariela Perez Branger, Miss Venezuela 1967 and 1st runner up in Miss Universe made a movie for a Filipino film outfit (Arizona Kid -shot entirely in the US).

• You have been in the Philippines for more than a month, what is your impression of the country?
If I would live somewhere else in the world, the Philippines would top my list. Aside from having the same weather and food as Venezuela, I love the way people help each other here. From the moment I arrived up until now, Filipinos have been very kind and friendly. This is where Asia truly wears a smile!

• What have you learned in the Philippines that you would like to share with your people?
I spoke with somebody and he told me that in the Philippines, problems do not exist! If there is a solution to every problem then there is no need to worry about it. I loved that philosophy! We must take time out to relax and not stress ourselves because, after all, our problems are just temporary.

• Finally, what message would you like to tell your supporters?
I would like to thank them for their support and prayers. Thank you for believing in me and always remember I am here not only for the environment but for all of you as well. To the Filipinos, I say Salamat Po and Mahal Ko Kayong Lahat! 

Interview conducted by Felix Manuel. Special thanks to Alexandra, Rejie Fernando,
 Miss Lorraine Schuck, and the entire staff of Carousel Productions

 

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