By Samuel Maughn

GUYANESE model Jasoda Ramlagan is among the eight super-finalists who will be taking to the stage at the Miss Princess of the World pageant, slated for May 25 in Genoa, Italy.

This prestigious international pageant caters for girls 16 to 26 years of age, and gives them an early opportunity at pageantry in a professional environment.

The 23-year-old beauty hails from a little rural village on the Essequibo Coast named Land of Plenty, and in a sit-down with ‘the Buzz’ she spoke at length of her overwhelming pride at being able to fly the Golden Arrowhead in Italy.

“Being among the eight shortlisted delegates for the finals is already an achievement, considering they were over 80 delegates representing countries from all across the globe,” she said.

A jury comprising of international directors, photographers and professionals from the fashion industry, stylist, communicators, models and producers, assisted in narrowing the number down to 25 models, who were selected based on several aspects of their personality, among them their brilliance, communication skills, and natural charm.

Eight finalists were selected out of the twenty-five shortlisted delegates, and they are all eagerly awaiting the final round.

The countries represented by the top eight beauties are, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Czech Republic, Guyana, Portugal, Slovakia and Ukraine.

Looking back at what may have given her an edge to be selected, Jasoda said, “Without a portfolio, I would not have made the cut.”

She also stressed the importance of young models putting together a portfolio because it makes a difference in being a professional model.

Even though the young model aspires to become a medical professional, she still holds the runway in high esteem, and regards and hopes to make a career out of it. “Modeling is a real job,” she said.

However, her one major concern is the managing and structure of this type of industry in Guyana.

Ramlagan contended that there were times when opportunities presented itself, but, she was somewhat fearful to follow through with it, especially when it involved being away from loved ones.

The young woman feels that more modelling agencies are needed in the local market, notwithstanding the work Traits Model Management has done to date.

The Miss Princess of the World contestant is urging the general public to support by voting for her via the official Princess of the World website.