AT a pomp and lavish ceremony hosted last Friday evening at the new Marriott Hotel, overseas-based Guyanese songbird Lisa Punch was unveiled as Guyana’s representative to the Miss World Pageant in China in December 2015.

The plush ceremony saw the audience being treated to an entertaining and interactive hosting by Miss Guyana World 2014, Ruqayyah Boyer, and outgoing Miss Guyana World, Rafeiya Husain.

The two queens took the audience through a colourful description of their experiences at the Miss World Pageant, and Husain’s winning ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ platform was shown on screen, moving many in the gathering almost to tears.

Then it was time for the stimulating showcase of fitness techniques from the ‘Fit Rex Fitness Group’, followed by a spectacular dance presentation by the Creative Arts Dance Group.

Scarcely had they left the stage than the audience was treated to a sizzling display of fashion by veteran overseas-based designer Michelle Cole in a segment that was showcased by the six beauties vying for the 2015 Miss Jamzone Guyana crown and by reigning Miss Jamzone International, Soyini Fraser.

The excitement continued with a dazzling presentation by the all-male ‘Euphoria Dance Group’, their skill and theatrics bringing the audience to its feet.

In a brief address, Tourism Minister Mrs Cathy Hughes congratulated Boyer and Husain for their tumultuous success in pageantry, and emphasised that she was very moved by Husain’s video on domestic violence. She noted that there is much work to be done in order to eradicate the scourge of domestic violence, and she urged all concerned to spread awareness on domestic violence, especially as it affects women and children.

After stirring poetry by the talented Randolph Critchlow, Miss Guyana World Franchise Holder Natasha Martindale delivered an informative preview on the pageant and the selection process.

Then the audience rose to its feet in wild applause as the charming Lisa Punch, radiant and smiling, made her entrance, quelling all suspense as to the identity of Miss World Guyana 2015. She was sashed and crowned by Miss Husain whilst the audience cheered in delight.

In a brief press conference that followed after, Miss Punch noted that she was particularly inspired and driven by the exploits and platform of the outgoing queen. She said that Husain’s drive to eradicate domestic violence has further strengthened her to make a difference as a beauty ambassador, and has also influenced her choice of platform — ‘Suicide Prevention’.

In closing the night’s proceedings, Miss Martindale thanked the media and urged them to give positive coverage as the new Miss Guyana World sets out on an electrifying journey.

By Alex Wayne