Miss Thailand Gavintra Photijak as of 3rd week of June 2008, is the leading delegate in our online polls. Whether she will take the small trophy marked with "People's Choice Award" or not remains to be seen. But being the leader of the polls indicate that she has a massive support from her fans and that she was able to muster the trust and confidence of the Thai people. Thailand was in the semifinals for two strait years and it is yearning for more. Gavintra, demure and flawless, is tasked to win Thailand's third crown. In this interview, we found her to be witty and funny and got a killer smile to melt everyone in the room.
Please tell us about yourself, where you grew up and your hobbies.
My name is Gavintra Photijak. I was born on December 24th, 1986. When I was a child, I was quite naughty and wanted to explore everything. I was like a boy because I was very close to my brother. I came from a middle class family. We were raised to be independent with my parents’ guidance of course. Later on, I moved to live with my grandmother who taught me how to be an impeccable well-brought-up girl.
I love to spend my leisure time playing sports – volleyball in particular which I enjoy very much since I was 15 years old and was selected to join the Nong Khai team.
What are your current preparations for Miss Universe 2008?
At this moment, I am being trained in all important courses which are, for instance, manners, grooming, etc. Also, I am now learning how to gain more confidence when I am onstage and other techniques for the interview during the pageant.
Describe your fashion sense and style.
I am very keen on sporty and casual styles – only tees, jeans, and sneakers will do for me. However, since I was crowned, I have to be outstanding. In other words, it depends on time and place I have to go, but personally I am a casual girl.
Could you tell us about your experiences during the Miss Thailand contest?
I have gained a lot of valuable experiences and more importantly new friends! My fellow contest are incredible. I had a chance to learn how to adjust myself when with other people and be more responsible for what I do.
What do you plan to do in case you will win the Miss Universe 2008 contest?
I will do my very best to tackle all the responsibilities to come.
How would you describe Thailand to your fellow contestants?
I will show them how magnificent Thai culture is along with other local traditions that are very valuable. Also, I will introduce them to many fantastic tourist attractions in Thailand that they will experience when they will come to my country. But the most important thing is the way Thais greet called the Wai and how to say Sawasdee.
What are the things you have to carry everywhere that you can’t live without?
The first thing has to be money as I will not be able to do anything without it. (Laughing) Then, my mobile phone. Everyday, I have to contact a lot of people so without it I won’t be able to update myself. Another thing is my cosmetic bag – you have to look good all the time when you are Miss Thailand since you are representing the country. The last one would be my home key. How can I get into the house if I don’t have it?
Do you think that beauty pageants run in collision course with feminists' views?
I don’t think so since nowadays women’s role are not different from men’s. Women are stepping out and doing a lot of things that are beneficial to the society. I personally think that everyone wants to see Thai women playing in more important roles and respected by others, don't you?.
What qualities do you think will enable you to shine at Miss Universe 2008?
That would be smiling – Siamese Smile – which truly comes from the heart. Other things are Wai and saying Sawasdee (Hello) or Kob Khun Ka (Thank you). These are the unique characteristics of Thai people which will allow me to truly shine on the stage.
Lastly, what is your message to the visitors of Missosology.Org?
I would love to see your support for me there especially it has been 20 years since the last Thai girl – Ms. Pornthip Makhirunkanok – was crowned Miss Universe. I will do my very best for everyone and I thank every support for me to bring this honorable title back to Thailand, my homecountry. Thank you.
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Translated by Dhanis B. Photographed by Watcharoot Mooneerat. Interview facilitated by Satachai Thongrubkalw. Special thanks to Miss Thailand Universe Organization. Good Luck to Gavintra at Miss Universe from Missosology.Org!
