Janet Silvera, Senior Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

The grand coronation of the 2012 Miss Global International Pageant takes place tomorrow at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, and the organisers have promised a grand affair befitting Jamaica's 50th year of Independence.

On arrival in Jamaica last weekend, the ladies were hosted by sponsors Riu Montego Bay at a poolside cocktail reception.

For the first time in the history of the nine-year-old event, some 39 contestants representing 39 different countries are on the island competing for the coveted first-place trophy.

"This is the largest contingent in the nine years of the competition," boasted Lachu Ramchandani, pageant ambassador.

The new countries in the competition include Myanmar (Burma), France, Pakistan, Philippines, and Wales. "The girls have come from places you will never imagine," added Ramchandani.

Endorsed by the Jamaica Tourist Board, Jamaica 50, Miss Puerto Rico, Yansy Vega, who won the pageant in 2011, will pass on the crown to a lucky girl.

The winner gets US$500, a Swiss watch, three-night accommodation at Riu, trophy, and jewellery. However, Ramchandani says all the contestants will receive substantial prizes.

In addition, each girl has brought in a gift endemic to her country, to be used as part of the charity event that will benefit from the Miss Global 2012 event. "All those items are being auctioned," said the pageant ambassador.

janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com