Medical student crowned Miss Global International Guyana 2023

Going to school, Lateefah Forde felt compelled to choose a career that was “logical” and found herself in the Business stream. But the heart of this young aspiring doctor was set on medicine. Today, Lateefah is a fourth-year medical student at the Lincoln American University, School of Medicine (LAU) interested in Gynaecology and Cardiology. It was this determination and an evident show of charisma and passion that led to Lateefah being crowned Miss Global International Guyana (MGIG) 2023.

With the announcement made on August 11, Lateefah is the first queen to be crowned under the pageant’s new leadership from National Director, Reneé Chester and will represent Guyana at the international pageant in Jamaica on September 16. In an interview with the Pepperpot Magazine, “Queen Lateefah” shared her aspirations for herself under the new title. “This title comes with the power to provide awareness of important issues that people will pay attention to. Specifically, my interest is in mental health awareness, so I will be able to reach a wider audience to promote this cause. But the Miss Global International Pageant is also tourism-focused, which also gives me a chance to be an Ambassador for my beautiful country by showcasing its growing potential as a massive tourism destination,” Lateefah said.

Pageant experience

Though new to the pageant industry, Lateefah is excited to begin her journey, which she describes as being remarkable so far. “Some of the highlights of my journey to date would be meeting amazing people. I have formed beautiful bonds and shared experiences with those who are important to me,” she explained. Lateefah added that much of her time has been engrossed in training, getting her ready to shine above the rest in Jamaica.
Under the pageant franchise’s new ownership, contestants of MGIG will be exposed to an array of capacity-building services that sharpen the skills of the young women who will potentially be representing Guyana. These include Elocution training, Model training, history lessons, fitness and nutrition guidance and mentorship. Lateefah explained that she is honoured to receive this training from some of the best in the respective fields.

Inspiring young women

As one of Guyana’s most recently crowned pageant Queens, Lateefah is well aware of the influence she will have on young women and girls and is excited to take up the role. “Young girls must always believe in themselves, work hard, and never give up on their dreams. Always seek out new opportunities that go in favour of their betterment and for opening new and beautiful doors,” she encouraged.
She expounded that it is important for young girls to have a good support system, whether it’s family or friends. She says this can ensure that they receive the necessary guidance and encouragement and that they are in safe hands. As for young girls looking to get into pageantry: “Just be confident, believe in yourself, and always stay true to who you are and stay steadfast on your goals. Look at the opportunity as providing a platform to advocate for and make a difference for a bigger cause that you are passionate about.”

A simple girl turned model
Lateefah’s current title is by far the most public post that she has ever held. Born in Region Four, she describes her upbringing as simple, growing up with her parents and siblings where the children were taught important lessons. “My dad had always instilled morals and values within me and my siblings and to always be patient with whatever obstacle and setback that we’d face in life and that after hardship comes ease,” Lateefah recalled. As she got older, Lateefah, who stands a whopping five feet, ten inches, decided to use her height to her advantage and got into modelling. “My modelling career started when I was scouted by Keisha Edwards, the Creative Director and owner of Shasha Designs. She took me in and moulded me to be the best. My first-time modelling for Keisha was at the Presidential State House for an Emancipation dinner on August 1, 2022,” she said. Lateefah is also the face of Shasha Designs and has modelled for Posh, Moonlight Stories, and Curl Fete.

Now with her crown and title, Lateefah is set to take her skills in that direction with gratitude and a sincere determination to make Guyana proud. “I anticipate dealing with the pressure of being in the spotlight as the biggest challenge I will face. However, with my strong support system and confidence, I know I can put my best foot forward, yielding great results and not let any fear or challenge get in the way. God is great, and I am forever thankful.”