Missosology.Org Miss World 2007 Beauty Talks: Yendi Philips

Miss World 2007> Beauty Talks > Miss Jamaica World

It seems at first that Yendi Philips has a big shoe to fill. After all her predecessors include Joan Carole Crawford, Cindy Breakspeare, and Lisa Hanna. All are Miss Jamaica. All are Miss World titleholders. But Yendi is undeniably witty, possess a face that could launch a thousand ships and got the body that will surely turn heads. Filling up that big shoe may end up as the problem of the future Miss Jamaica.

Describe the village or place where you grew up?

I grew up in Kingston, Jamaica in a communal setting where everyone knew each other and was comfortable enough to borrow a cup of sugar. All the children in the community would rush to get their homework done to come out and play in the neighborhood park; and of course as a “tom boy” I would be right up in the mix of all the excitement with the boys getting dirty!

How would you describe yourself to the world?

I would say I’m pretty laid-back and one who likes to enjoy life. Though quite relaxed, I am very goal-oriented and quite a “jack-of-all-trades”. I am a dancer and model, which speaks to my artistic side, as well as someone hungry for knowledge which relates to my educational feats (currently completing my Master of Science degree). I believe life is short and I think it is very important to live it up and leave a positive mark on the world.

How would you describe Jamaica to the other Miss World delegates?

Jamaica is a beautiful country that is a lot more than what it is popularly associated with. Our beautiful beaches, green mountains, and reggae music are just the tip of the iceberg of what our culture and heritage is truly made up of. Our people and culture are warm and inviting and Jamaica truly never fails to impress upon all its visitors. Come see it for yourself!!

Did you always dream to become Miss Jamaica or did you have some other ambitions as a child?

I never particularly dreamt of becoming Miss Jamaica, but I dreamt of having an amazing impact on our country and the world at large. As I grew older and more aware of my attributes and the opportunities the pageant would afford in terms of being able to make impacting changes, it became something which I began to really admire and aim towards.

Describe the selection process during your national pageant.

Our national pageant is similarly aligned to the Miss World pageant in terms of structure. We all participated in mini-competitions (talent, sport, beach beauty, model), and paraded in swim wear and evening gowns. A top ten was then selected and we had what was dubbed a “chit-chat” session, where we briefly spoke to questions that were asked of us by one of the emcees. From there a top five was selected where we were questioned by the judges. Then the winner was determined.

Name a beauty queen that you had always admired and wish to emulate.

I admired Lisa Hanna, Miss Jamaica World 1993 and Miss World 1993, not just as a phenomenally beautiful woman who did her country proud, but she truly was an ambassador for her people as she positively impacted many of our nations’ people with her charitable contributions. That opened my eyes to the great possibilities afforded to one in such a capacity.

How would you define beauty?

Beauty is a lot more that being easy on the eye and having a pretty face. It is about exuding positive energy and radiance which can only stem from being grounded and beautiful from the inside.

At any given moment, what would your handbag contain?

Too much junk!! My handbag is like a mini-suitcase; but some of the things are lip-gloss, my wallet, dance tape for the feet, change of earrings, chewing gum, basically everything and thankfully nothing that bites.

How would you see yourself someday - a family-oriented wife or a career woman?

Definitely family oriented. I love my family and see the importance of the family especially as they are my support system. I am very excited to have a family of my own but of course when the time is right.

Jamaica has been a strong country at Miss World. Do you think it is a boon or a bane for you?

I believe everything is what you make it and for me I will make it a boon or positive. I think we have done very well at the Miss World Pageant in the past and I feel honored to walk in the shoes of my predecessors and I intend to treat it as such; an honor.

Lastly, what is your message to Missosology.Org website visitors?

Thank you first of all for the love I have been receiving; I feel truly honored and blessed by the reception thus far and look forward to your continued support! Blessings to all!

Thanks to Miss Jamaica World Organization especially to pageant director Mickey Haughton-James. We wish Yendi all the luck and blessings at Miss World 2007!