 If they are tired, they don't look it, though each of the contestants in the Miss Earth 2007 pageant have worked extremely hard to earn a spot as a finalist in the inter-national competition promoting environmental awareness and conservation.
The weather is in full cooperation with the sun shining intently against a brilliant blue sky.
Dressed immaculately, the 30 pageant hopefuls captivate the attention of dozens of eager photographers and media correspondents at the stunning Vinpearl Land resort in central Vietnam's Nha Trang Bay.
Set against a backdrop of intermingling flowers, water and mountains, the resort is a vivid paradise come to life with the addition of the striking women.
After an hour-long photo shoot, the contestants pay a visit to the resort’s souvenir shop exclaiming at the beautiful Vietnamese handicrafts including silk, lacquer ware, hand-bags and scarves, among others.
“So beautiful!” remarks Miss England's Clair Cooper, as she studies a hand-embroidered bag.
Miss South Africa, Bokang Montjane agrees, saying she'll buy some to bring home to her friends.
Conservation activities
Looking fresh and sporty in jeans, T-shirts and boots, the contestants head out to plant trees with local organizers and representatives from Thanh Nien Newspaper, the Vinpearl Company and Elite Vietnam.
Miss Brazil Patrica Silva Ferreira says, “Planting trees is among the most simple and effective activities we can do to make the earth healthier.”
Asked what she would do to help the earth if she were to win the title of Miss Earth 2007, Ferreira states, “I will do my best to contribute to environmental conservation.
Initially, I would like to lead a project utilizing all types of media to encourage people to use bio-diesel for their automobiles in order to improve air quality – principally in the big cities.”
Later on into the day, the young competitors hit the beach – though relaxing and sunbathing is not the objective today.
Despite the sun's intense heat beating down on Nha Trang Beach, the contestants stay true to their environmental mission, and set to work picking up litter and debris to help restore the natural beauty of the area.
Miss Argentina Maria Antonella Tocnolia affirms, “It’s just a small effort, but it really helps.”
Charity work
Next, the international representatives are whisked away to visit Khanh Hoa Provincial Social Assistance Center – home to some 150 seniors and mentally-handicapped individuals.
The center also houses nearly 100 homeless or orphaned children, many with congenital birth defects.
After interacting with some of the underprivileged children, Miss Vietnam Truong Tri Truc Diem and Miss Bahamas Sharon Eula Rolle were moved to tears.
In a voice filled with raw emotion, Diem laments, “All I can think of here is how to help these poor brothers and sisters – how to give them a better life.” The children were just as enamored with Diem, asking endless questions and clinging to her tightly even as she left the house.
Later in the afternoon, Khanh Hoa provincial authorities welcomed the Miss Earth contestants and organizers.
During the meeting, local officials announced how pleased they were to be hosting the prestigious international pageant, and then bestowed traditional souvenirs upon the women.
The day's schedule remained demanding and full of activity with a swimwear shoot and an evening gala to cap off the busy itinerary.
A full day’s work indeed for 30 glamorous women with outstanding commitment to their cause./www.thanhniennews.com
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