Proudly wearing the sash of the reigning Miss Guyana Universe, 22-year-old Ruqayyah Boyer, took New York by storm, making her way up to Harlem, before stopping by the Guyana Consulate on Seventh Avenue, to be celebrated.
The beauty that captured the crown in September and was crowned by – Miss Universe 2011, Leila Lopez of Angola during her visit to Guyana – is in Las Vegas where she will compete in the 61st Miss Universe pageant scheduled to take place at Planet Hollywood Resort, on Wednesday, December 19.
The 5’9” petite stunner is excited about dazzling the judges with a wardrobe fit for a queen, complete with creations from a bevy of Guyanese designers. Her outfits will highlight the beauty and diversity of the Guyanese culture. Pat Coats, Derrick Moore and Roger designed the pieces
It is hoped that New York-based designer Michelle Cole of Cold Facts, will repeat a winning evening gown for the queen. Boyer won the Guyana title wearing a body-hugging V-back gold dress, by Cole Facts.
The pre-law University of Guyana student is no stranger to pageants, she has vied in Miss Guyana Talented Teen, the Miss Teen Universal Wear – where she represented Guyana in Barbados, and was crowned Miss Linden Talent, in her home town.
Boyer contends that her quest to showcase her talent and love of the arts – dance, music and song – led her to compete at the international level.
“I wanted to travel abroad to meet new people, and to put my talents to the test, to be spontaneous, to be glamorous and to exhibit my talents, added the queen who welcomes the attention her country will also get.
Boyer, who will be under the spotlight in the state of high rollers and entertainment, was born in the Dutch colony of neighboring Suriname. She moved to Guyana as a little girl, and is depending heavily on the love and support of her eight siblings and parents in her quest for the crown.
However, she will write poetry, sing or play the piano to put her in a relaxing mood before the pageant begins. It will be broadcast live on NBC TV, at 8:00 p.m
“We have never won at the Miss Universe, so I want to win for my country. “I am going to give it my all and I ask all Guyanese to vote and pray.
To vote for Ruqayyah, log on to www.missuniverse.com. Fans are allowed to vote 10 times a day, until Dec. 18.
Good Luck Ruqayyah!
