Hyderabad: The grand finale of the Head-to-Head Challenge at the 72nd Miss World Festival was held with splendor and intellect at Hotel Trident, Hyderabad on Friday. Twenty contestants – five each from Europe, Africa, Asia and Oceania, and the Americas and Caribbean – showcased their eloquence, advocacy, and social vision during this prestigious event.
The Head-to-Head Challenge, a key segment of the Miss World Festival, offers a global platform for contestants to voice their views on critical social issues. Two participants from each continent were selected for the final round, from which one winner per continent advanced to the top 10.
Americas and Caribbean: Women Empowerment and Safety in Telangana
Contestants from Brazil, Suriname, Cayman Islands, Guyana, and Trinidad and Tobago answered the question: “Having travelled to Hyderabad, what message would you give the world on women’s safety and empowerment in Telangana?”
Miss Guyana stated, “Women belong everywhere, and safety is a right, not a privilege,” praising Telangana as a place where women can live and explore freely.
Miss Trinidad and Tobago, who advanced to the final, said, “Progress and empowerment go hand in hand. India, especially Hyderabad, has embraced this correlation. We cannot succeed when half the population is left behind. Thank you, Telangana, for ensuring women are not left behind.”
Africa: Challenges as Pathways to Growth and the Role of Social Media.
Delegates from South Africa, Namibia, Somalia, Uganda, and Zambia responded to: “How have challenges turned into opportunities for your growth?”
Miss Namibia shared her personal battle with anxiety and depression, crediting her transformation to faith and purpose.
Miss Zambia, who won the African title, highlighted her full scholarship in clinical medicine, saying, “Time does not measure what I can do. It is about passion and purpose.”
In the final round, African finalists answered: “Social media influences many aspects of life, especially among youth. How do you remain authentic?”
Miss Zambia said, “The world may change, but you don’t have to. Be who you are, and let the world embrace that. Authenticity is strength — society may evolve, but our true selves should not be lost.”
Europe: Empowering Youth Through Education. Representatives from Spain, Wales, France, Germany, and Ireland were asked: “If you could implement one change in your country to improve young lives, what would it be and why?”
Miss Ireland advocated for stronger protections against domestic violence.
Miss Wales, who advanced to the finals, emphasized accessible healthcare and education. She shared her journey as the first in her family to attend university and how medical outreach in Uganda and India, particularly stories of acid attack survivors, inspired her mission. “Education looks different for everyone, but it remains the most powerful tool,” she said.
Asia and Oceania: Cultural Identity and ‘Beauty with a Purpose’. Delegates from Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey, Lebanon, and Japan reflected on: “How has working with a ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ project changed your perspective?”
Miss Turkey, an oncologist who lost her mother to cancer, champions mammogram awareness in her country. Her powerful advocacy earned her the Asia and Oceania title.
In the final round, contestants answered: “In an increasingly globalized world, how do you preserve cultural identity while embracing diversity?”
Miss Turkey responded, “In times of global conflict, cultural heritage becomes even more important. Through events by consulates and embassies – celebrating music, art, cuisine, and tradition – we not only preserve but also promote unity in diversity. Cultural differences are not barriers, but bridges.”
Final Question to the Continental Winners: Climate Change. The eight finalists were asked: “What is your opinion on climate change?”
Miss Trinidad and Tobago said, “I come from a land full of nature. When you love something, you protect it. We’ve introduced hikes and tree-planting initiatives to reconnect with the environment. Planting a single tree can bring back birds, reduce stress, and rebuild harmony. Small steps build a sustainable future.”
Promoting Telangana to the World. The final four continental winners — Turkey, Wales, Zambia, and Trinidad & Tobago – answered: “How would you promote India’s youngest state, Telangana, to the world in terms of culture, heritage, and innovation?”
Miss Turkey highlighted Telangana as a hub of technology and medical innovation. “It’s a vibrant state of progress, prioritizing women’s rights, safety, and education. Telangana sends a powerful message to the world – of empowerment, innovation, and gender equality.”
Miss Wales remarked, “This is my second visit, and what stands out most is the warmth of the people. I’ll invite my country to experience Telangana’s rich culture firsthand.”
Miss Zambia said, “Telangana’s people are true to their culture. I received many gifts and stories that reflect their authenticity. ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ is not just a cause – Telangana embodies that spirit.”
Miss Trinidad and Tobago added, “My country is known as the land of sunshine – and I want to extend that warmth to Telangana. This land radiates kindness, culture, and connection.”
Julian Morley, Miss World 2024 Christiana, Aruna Parama, and Mr. World Asia Vietnam participated. The Head-to-Head Challenge at the 72nd Miss World Festival powerfully showcased how beauty, purpose, intellect, and cultural pride converge to create a global voice for change.
