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Date Posted: 16:41:36 09/12/06 Tue
INTERVIEW WITH TRINIDAD EXPRESS NEWSPAPER:
Future ambitions:
To be a successful woman in the professional world, having been well travelled thereby being able to be a positive influence in my country and hopefully on a larger scale, in the world.
Where were you born and where did you grow up?
Born in a family hospital and grew up in a developing neighbourhood called Westmoorings located to the north of the island, my childhood days were spent surrounded by many young families and, as such, not only was I blessed with the company of my sisters but also that of amicable neighbours of diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds. As an adult, I have learnt that the innocent harmonisation of cultures around which I grew up was not a norm, but an exception; yet I hold that harmony is still possible in spite of a world so torn.
Tell us a little about your country.
Trinidad and Tobago, small country with big passion; people with boundless faith in our destiny; we are the smallest country to ever qualify for the World Cup; home of the cricket legend and World record holder, Brian Charles Lara; host of an annual two-day (and -night) street party called Trinidad and Tobago Carnival (and the entire world is invited).
Tobago is the nest of over 150 spices of birds, breathtaking beaches and a diverse people who are all embracing.
Tell us a little about your family.
I was born to two wonderful people, now married for 30 years and am third in a line-up of four girls.
Nicha, the first sister, was born with a learning disability, disallowing her to live the same life as the rest of us. Her handicap, although not physically evident, restricts her ability to perform difficult tasks. Great moments are shared with the family when she successfully accomplishes her everyday tasks, making us all so very proud.
Growing up with Nicha has certainly made me aware of how thankful we must be for the simple joys in life.
What is your favourite food?
Coming from islands with a variety of cultures makes it difficult for someone with taste buds such as mine to choose a favourite food; however, I must admit that the scent alone of East Indian food always wins my bid. I especially favour roti, which is similar to a burrito--but softer, filled with channa (chickpeas), beef or chicken, mango, and flavoured with curry and other East Indian spices.
Favourite music?
I have two types--soca, that is a fusion of calypso, African and pop mixed rhythms; and I also enjoy vintage Jamaican dancehall.
Having lived a somewhat "regimented" life, because of academics and being a junior national swimmer, these types of music allow me to enjoy spontaneous moments of dance that are so liberating, especially during stressful times.
Do you have any pets?
Due to the fact that I was required to undergo rigorous training as a national swimmer and also to keep up with my academics, I learned at an early age that compromises and sacrifices were made to achieve goals. Therefore, I was not able to have pets due to fact that time did not allow me to care for them properly.
What are your career ambitions, and how do you plan to realise them?
Having worked in the tax department of Ernst & Young, an international accounting firm (one of the Big Four firms) for the past four years, my love for taxation has certainly been discovered. However, as this is all that I know in the accounting world, I have opted to spend some time in the auditing department, thereby not closing the door to other avenues.
Although eager to expand my accounting knowledge, my short stint in the tax department has me wanting to further my career in taxation. I hope to return to the UK to pursue a Master's degree in international taxation law. In addition, I will attempt to use my position as Miss Trinidad and Tobago, an Ambassador for my country, to influence positive change and a new way of thinking.
What jobs have you done? What was the most interesting/unusual?
From a sales clerk in a CD kiosk, to a maitre'd in a popular Italian restaurant to modelling and accounting, I think that the most unusual will have to be modelling. Although seen as a hobby, it is also a job.
Modelling in a swimsuit, wearing heels in the middle of a field, constantly being under a microscope, crazy backstage and behind-the-scene preparations; what could be more interesting than this?
It's amazing to see what is produced from a photo session, often times I cannot believe that it's me that I see in the picture. It's interesting how composed models look when brought on stage after being dressed in a very frenzied scene that exists backstage at all fashion shows.
The glitz, the glamour, the friendships, the fun and laughter make it all worth it in the end. Modelling allows the confidence to be boosted and womanhood to be praised, recognising her strength and knowing that a beautiful face isn't all it takes!
What is the proudest moment of your life (not including winning your national title)?
At the age of 11, I was selected to represent my country in swimming. I was part of a four-man relay, which holds a record to this day as it was the last year at which that particular age group was allowed to participate in those games.
It is always self-fulfilling when you achieve something that you have dedicated yourself to, sacrificing, giving your all--body, soul and mind.
If you had a personal motto, what would it be?
If you conceive it and you believe it; then you can achieve it.
Any other interesting facts?
I am a certified accountant that models, which is odd in a world where accountants are known to lead very conservative lives. I completed my ACCA whilst working.
In school, I belonged to the Legion of Mary, visiting various orphanages and trying to bring joy to those less fortunate, especially at Christmas time.
Like Miss World, I hope to bring a new meaning to the term "beauty queen" as a woman who exudes confidence, strength and faith. Maintaining her exterior whilst continuously working on her interior, developing the body, soul and mind everyday. Athletic, poised, intelligent, strong, funny and confident are words that have been used to describe me. I always strive to be the epitome of a true modern woman.
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