For such a small nation, Trinidad and Tobago is doing well at beauty pageants. It can boast a Miss World titleholder courtesy of Giselle Laronde in 1986. Since the turn of the century, this Caribbean nation can be proud of Magdalene Walcott (Miss World 2003 semi-finalist), Kenisha Thom (Miss World 2004 semi-finalist), Jenna Marie Andre (Miss World 2005 Beach Beauty Semi-Finalist), Tineke De Freitas (Miss World 2006 Top 24 in Sports Competition), and Valene Maharaj (Miss World 2007 Finalist). Wouldn't you agree that this is a fantastic record for such a small nation? What could possibly be their secret? Is it their carnival "attitude"? Or is the warmness of the sun and the vibrancy of the sea in Trinidad and Tobago contagious? For this year though, be mesmerized by another Trini (as the people of this nation affectionately called) beauty queen - a Miss World in the making - Gabrielle Walcott. She’s Miss Trinidad and Tobago World and pride of the Trinis.
Please describe yourself, where you grew up and your hobbies.
I grew up on the beautiful Caribbean island; Trinidad, and I would describe myself very much like where I come from; a warm, fun loving, natural beauty with a passion for living life to the fullest, a deep sense of pride in my multi-cultural background and a strong ambition for growth and development! I have many hobbies: Equestrian show jumping, yoga, palities, art, fashion design, sewing, photography, theatre and acting.
What is your fashion style?
A combination of Sexy & Classic, with a little Funky Island Twist thrown in for good measure!
Can you share to us your beauty secret?
I am a huge believer of: "you are what you eat!" I have been a vegetarian since conception. While attending Acting school in New York I even tried the raw food diet. It was not easy, but I felt great! I also try to use organic beauty products especially things that grown in my garden like aloe-vera. I'm a huge fan of cocoa butter, vitamin A & E. Being from the Caribbean I love the sun, sand and sea. I know from experience that a tan makes every woman look golden, the best pedicures come from walking on the beach and the salt water is the best natural hair style product you'll ever encounter.
How were you selected as Miss Trinidad and Tobago World? Describe the selection process.
Over 200 women turned out the day of the Miss Trinidad and Tobago screening! After a long day of eliminations the judges finally decided on the "Magnificent 7!" These 7 then faced 7 days of interviews, photo shoots, choreography and training all in preparation for the Miss Trinidad and Tobago 2008 Pageant. The Pageant included: an opening number, complete with a traditional dance, swimsuit competition, evening gown competition and final question. They then announced the runner-ups for both Miss Universe and Miss World and then they called my name. [Smiles]
What qualities do you think that will enable you to win the Miss World 2008 crown?
I recently had the opportunity to meet the current Miss World 2008 Zi Lin Zhang and spend some time with her. Her ability to touch people and be relatable really stood out to me. Her beauty is truly within, not only on the outside…we got along immediately. These are the qualities that make an amazing Miss World. I am warm, openhearted and trusting…and I make friends very easily. My passion for making a difference is a big part of my soul and in a competition where goodwill is acknowledged, I believe I can live with its ideals and be the role model.
What is the most interesting or unique experience that has happened to you?
I moved to New York when I was 22 to study acting. I arrived in February, in the middle of a blizzard and all on my own for the first time in my life. I grew-up so much during that year! I will never forget walking into a small Manhattan apartment setting down my suitcases, shaking off the snow from my hair, (first time I had ever seen snow) and thinking “Oh my God! Now what?”
What would you say to some people who think that beauty pageants are outdated?
I think it’s interesting that celebrities are now getting all this attention for doing charitable work when notable organizations like Miss World have been focusing on making the world a better place for decades! So my question would be: Are beauty pageants outdated or is the world now catching up? I must include that for many countries this participation creates a sense of national pride and togetherness.
How would you describe Trinidad and Tobago to the rest of Miss World 2008 delegates?
One must live it to feel it. A tropical paradise, rich with diverse cultural backgrounds…and spirit of a people that is best encapsulated in our Carnival which of course I extend an open invitation to experience.
What is your motto in life?
I have one mind, nourish it…one body, always respect it…and I have one life, live and be the best I can.
Lastly, a message to the web visitors of Missosology.Org….
I have always dreamt about being Miss Trinidad and Tobago for as long as I can remember and I feel like I am living my dream! I believe in living one’s passions and being true to one’s self and with this, anything in life can be possible!
Special thanks to Peter Elias, President of Miss Trinidad and Tobago Organization for facilitating the interview and great photos of Gaby.
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