Hendrica Smith, Dominica’s representative at the Miss International Elegant Mother’s Pageant (MIEMP), is facing disqualification from the upcoming competition due to her inability to pay for her necessary accommodations. Speaking to Dominica News Online (DNO), the mother of one stated that the deadline for competitors to fund their airfare and stay was yesterday-April 24 2023- and if this is not done immediately she will be forced to withdraw from the event.
As a result, the Salisbury native, who is Dominica’s first representative in the event, has once again issued an appeal to any individual or business willing to help fund her voyage in cash or kind to contact her at 767 285 9125.
Presently, the 25-year-old says that she is in the process of contacting the Dominica Festival Committee (DFC) as well as her Parliamentary Representative for assistance.
While she acknowledges that assistance is required to fund many other aspects of the show, she states that her primary concentration at the moment is on getting to the competitions.
“I would really appreciate it if anyone could find it in their hearts to help me,” she stated. “I will make certain that your business, if you have one, receives full recognition throughout this process.” Smith, who has competed in several local pageants, says her desire to showcase her talents, skills, and intelligence; to be a role model to society; to boost her self-
confidence and to share her advocacy under the platform ‘Women’s Empowerment Related Issues’ is what pushed her to participate in the event.
During a previous interview with DNO, David Williams, the MIEMP’s National Director, highlighted, that the goal of the event which debuted in 2016, is to empower, uplift, and recognise mothers through pageantry; but most importantly to “honour and shine a light on mothers for their humanitarian gift from God.”
In addition to Dominica’s representative, the other five ladies contending for the throne are Miss Dominican Republic Yissell Florentino, Miss Jamaica Nyisha Martin, Miss Grenada Tricia Grant Lewis, Miss Guyana Alicia Bess Anderson, and Miss St Maarten/St Martin – Diveltah Wilson.
The two-part contest will begin on May 12 with an all-white event in which the ladies will compete in their first and second judged rounds- interview and traditional culture wear.
Night two, May 13, will comprise four rounds, including African clothing, Sunday best wear talent, and elegant evening wear, followed by the crowning moment. According to the organisers, plans are currently being made to have the event
streamed online.
