On Sunday, July 16th, the prestigious Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago was illuminated with the excitement and anticipation of the Miss Trinidad and Tobago 2017 pageant. The event, organized by Miss Oneness Trinidad and Tobago, marked a significant milestone in the life of Chandini Chanka.
At just 22 years old, this International Relations graduate from the region’s most prestigious university and current Law student, was crowned the new Miss Trinidad and Tobago. She now carries the hopes and dreams of over 1.4 million Trinidadians as she prepares to represent her country at the 67th Miss World edition in China.
Chandini Chanka: A Nation’s Pride and Hope
Trinidad and Tobago, often regarded as the economic powerhouse of Latin America and the Caribbean, boasts the highest GDP in the region. Known for its generosity, the country has consistently extended a helping hand to its neighbors, including a significant donation of over $55 million US to Venezuela during its economic crisis.
However, despite its economic prowess, Trinidad and Tobago faces severe challenges, including a high crime rate and the troubling distinction of having the highest export rate of ISIS recruits in the Western Hemisphere.
In this landscape of contrasts, Chandini Chanka emerges as a beacon of hope. Her journey to the Miss World stage is not just a personal triumph but a symbol of resilience and aspiration for her fellow Trinidadians. As she prepares for the Miss World competition on November 18th in China, Chandini is determined to bring a message of unity, strength, and hope to her nation and the world.
Childhood Dreams and Family Traditions
Chandini Chanka’s journey to the crown is deeply rooted in her childhood dreams and family traditions. Growing up, she always aspired to become Miss World, a dream she shared with her mother.
In a heartfelt interview on CCN TV6, the country’s oldest television network, Chandini Chanka revealed that her mother had also dreamed of representing Trinidad and Tobago at Miss World but was unable to do so due to family disapproval and the swimsuit segment.
Watching the Miss World pageant together became a cherished family tradition, one that inspired Chandini to pursue her dreams with unwavering determination.
Academic Excellence and Cultural Pride
Chandini Chanka’s academic journey is a testament to her dedication and intelligence. She graduated from St. Joseph’s Convent, one of the most prestigious high schools in the country, before moving on to the University of the West Indies (UWI), the most esteemed university in the Caribbean. With aspirations of becoming an attorney, Chandini embodies the spirit of academic excellence and professional ambition.
Her cultural pride is equally impressive. As a Hindu, Chandini first gained recognition in the world of pageantry by winning the Miss Divali Nagar 2015, a significant cultural event broadcasted on ZEE TV, one of Miss World’s official broadcasters. This victory served as a stepping stone to her participation in the Miss World pageant, showcasing her blend of cultural heritage and contemporary aspirations.
A Symphony of Talent
Chandini Chanka is not just a beauty queen; she is a multi-talented individual with a deep passion for the arts. She is musically inclined, playing the Sitar, a traditional Indian musical instrument, and is also a professional dancer.
In a recent interview, Chandini Chanka shared her plans to create a unique performance for the Miss World talent competition, blending the sounds of the Sitar with Caribbean flavors, a true representation of her diverse heritage.
Triumph Amidst Challenges
Chandini’s triumph in the Miss Trinidad and Tobago pageant was no easy feat. She emerged victorious among thirteen highly educated contestants, making this year’s pageant the most academically distinguished in its history. The inclusion of the first disabled contestant further highlighted the progressive and inclusive nature of the competition.
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