Trinidad and Tobago is back! After its absence last year, they are now roaring to go this year by sending a contestant with Asian roots to an Asian host country! Anya is very exotic sporting an Asian look while representing a country with strong African heritage and she also vowed to "make up" their absence last year.
Please tell us about yourself, where you grew up and your hobbies.
I am a product of the complex and multifarious environment that is Trinidad and Tobago. I grew up in the capital, Port of Spain, as the only girl in a family of eight. Although I was never a tomboy, I am an avid basketball fan. I attended an all girls secondary school, followed by design school in New York and London. Studying classical ballet was my primary focus while growing up but now designing all things, from graphics to interiors to clothes, is my main passion. Most of all I love life and every opportunity it presents me.
What are your current preparations for Miss Universe 2008?
My training consists of daily exercise, hair and makeup lessons, walking and dance classes, as well as communication coaching. In addition I have made many public appearances on TV and at various events. And of course, lots of sleep and water!
Is your Asian heritage an issue since you represent a country with an overwhelming African heritage?
Trinidad and Tobago is unique in its ethnic make-up because it is a country with people of all races. I am of mixed origin, mainly Chinese, Indian, African and Caucasian, and although my particular mixture is a minority, I represent the unusual combination of ethnicities that defines us as a people.
Could you tell us about your experiences during the Miss Trinidad and Tobago contest?
The contest was a whole new experience for me, so I was like a sponge soaking up everything that I encountered. I enjoyed every minute of the process and learned a lot in a very short space of time. I remember feeling every emotion possible throughout the contest, but most of all I loved the challenge that this new experience brought.
Have you participated in other beauty contests before Miss Trinidad and Tobago?
No, this is the first time I have entered a competition of this nature.
How would you describe Trinidad and Tobago to your fellow contestants?
Trinidad and Tobago is not just a location, it is an experience. One that is unpredictable, varied and spontaneous. You will find a hybrid of races and cultures running throughout two incredibly beautiful Caribbean islands – one that is more urban and the other more untouched. Together the two provide everything you could ask for, from sun and sea to the greatest carnival on earth. Really and truly words could never do it justice. You will have to come see for yourself!
Trinidad and Tobago was not represented at Miss Universe 2007. What is reaction to this?
We were disappointed that there was no delegate last year because Miss Universe provides our country with amazing exposure to the rest of the world. This year we are excited to be represented and are sure to make up for last year’s absence.
Do you think that beauty pageants run in collision course with feminists' views?
Feminists may disagree with me but I think that beauty pageants celebrate all that is incredible about a woman from beauty and charm to intelligence and power. I believe there are many ways to express a woman’s strengths and competitions like this is one of them.
What qualities do you think will enable you to shine at Miss Universe 2008?
Like my country, I am unique and eclectic in many ways, from my ethnicity, to my interests and life experiences. I have the sort of personality that allows me to get along with everyone I meet. I am passionate and compassionate and most of all I intend to have a great time. When I enjoy something it shows, so I know I will shine from the inside out.
Lastly, what is your message to the visitors of Missosology.Org?
Confront your fears, embrace your weaknesses and live your passion, one day at a time.
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Special thanks to Peter Elias of Miss Trinidad and Tobago Organization for facilitating the interview and giving Missosology.Org exclusive photos of Anya by Fadil Berisha.
