Paulette Igiraneza Ndekwe is in the Philippines, where she is vying with 84 other contestants from around the world for the title of Miss Earth 2019.

The theme for its 19th edition is: "Beauty pageant promoting environmental awareness.” The annual event is the 4th most coveted international beauty contest after Miss International, Miss Universe, and Miss World.

The pageant was formed in 2009, with its first edition held in Płock, Poland. The duties of Miss Supranational are to work for charitable causes, as well as traveling the world promoting tourism, goodwill among all nations, and a healthy image.

The competition kicked off on October 2 at the Diamond Hotel in Manila, where the girls spoke about themselves and their plans in line with this year’s theme.

"I have noticed that some young people in my country are not interested in being environmentalists. My advocacy is to form clubs in schools with the help of educators, so that the youth can learn how to protect the environment, and to know how the environment plays a big role in the healthy living of human beings,” said Ndekwe.

Criteria for Miss Supranational

The contestants must be aged between 18 to 25 years, weighing around 55 kgs, high school graduates, not pregnant, and should have never given birth before. Other requirements include a minimum height of 165.10 cm, the beauty of face and proportionate body structure, outgoing and friendliness, excellent physical condition, and knowing her country’s culture and environment.

Prior to the grand coronation night, the contestants are scheduled to visit various destinations in the Philippines, promoting environmental awareness. They will also visit multiple schools in line with Miss Earth’s mission to educate the youth on the importance of taking care of the environment.

The reigning Miss Earth is Nguyễn Phương Khánh from Vietnam will crown her successor at the end of the event, which will take place on October 26, at Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum in Naga, Philippines.

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