MISS QUEENIVERSE 2024: ASUNTA MAE OF DENMARK WINS CROWN

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

Miss Queeniverse 2024, Asunta Mae
Photo Courtesy of Rigene Zapatos

On 18th May 2024, the coronation night for Miss Queeniverse 2024 was held at the Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol in Hoofddorp, The Netherlands. 

The coronation night was an organised project by Amsterdam-based GLAM Infinity where it epitomised the beauty; showcased the various talents and revealed the sharp-witted minds of 10 cordial candidates. 

The objective of the event was to celebrate and welcome the visibility of the LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/ questioning, intersex and asexual) community. Particularly, it led to an opportunity to make full-sounding noises in uplifting the ingenuity, cleverness, and intelligence of my dear fellow transgender women; that they are no longer hidden behind the scenes. 

It was positively hosted by August Baluyot Mateo and Raymond Jay-ar and also, adjudicated by respective members of the jury. There was a special appearance and participation from Miss Queeniverse 2023, Cassandra Havana, before the introductory production number of the contestants on stage. 

BEFORE THE CORONATION NIGHT 

Photo Courtesy of Miss Queeniverse

Photo Courtesy of Miss Queeniverse

The candidates had the opportunity to enjoy fun activities; receive give-away products and visit places such as: 

outdoor photo shoot; 

rehearsed their production number; 

endorsed goods and services from various sponsors;

and 

savoured Italian cuisine at Cucina Casalinga Restaurant.

CANDIDATES 

Photo Courtesy of Miss Queeniverse

There were 10 cheerful candidates who stupefied their undying supporters and lusciously tempted their admirers in a show-off competition on stage. 

The contestants vibrantly appeared on stage in 3 different attires where each round incentivised the audience to choose their favourite(s) during: 

elaborate creative costumes;

seductive swimsuits;

and 

classy gowns.

Video Courtesy of Cassy Nhoyskie Zen-abi

MINOR, MAJOR AND SPECIAL AWARDS 

There were 7 out of 10 candidates who were called one at a time on stage to receive the following awards: 

Miss Photogenic

candidate 1, Nancy Alena Diaz (The Netherlands)

Spirit of Candidate

candidate 3, Mitchelle Agusto (Germany)

People’s Choice Award

candidate 7, Khaylee Ysabella Powell (The Netherlands)

The New You Awardee

candidate 6, Ada Padilla (The Netherlands)

Miss Fab Skin

candidate 9, Hannakim Delena (Germany)

Miss Mega World

candidate 1, Nancy Alena Diaz (The Netherlands)

Miss Cream Silk

candidate 10, Asunta Mae (Denmark)

Best in Creative Costume

candidate 3, Mitchelle Agusto (Germany)

Best in Swimsuit

candidate 9, Hannakim Delena (Germany)

Best in Evening Gown

candidate 10, Asunta Mae (Denmark)

Best Personal Statement

candidate 8, Chloe Bronek (The Netherlands)

SEMI-FINALISTS 

The announcement of awards contributed to the overall scores for each contender and led to the determination of who would be included in the top 5. That is why, the tabulation of candidates' scores fairly decided the announcement of who made it through the initial round of the contest: 

candidate 4

Ram Villaflores (The Netherlands)

candidate 10

Asunta Mae (Denmark)

candidate 3

Mitchelle Agusto (Germany)

candidate 9

Hannakim Delena (Germany)

candidate 8

Chloe Bronek (The Netherlands)

 

This initial round was paired with the jittery Question and Answer portion with a twist. It is because the top 5 ladies were asked to convey their insightful interpretation of their chosen painting from local Filipino artists. Thus, the 3 contestants who delivered the strongest explanations reached the final round. 

TITLE HOLDER AND RUNNERS-UP 

The declaration of 3 finalists was followed by the ultimate Question and Answer portion in relation to the transgender community. 

After the finalists confidently answered the one common question, last year’s title holder Cassandra Havana made her farewell walk and speech.

           

Video Courtesy of Cassy Havana Serdan

The unanimously declared euphoric title holder with her affable runners-up of Miss Queeniverse 2024 are: 

From Left to Right
First Runner-up, Chloe Bronek
Miss Queeniverse 2024, Asunta Mae
Second Runner-up, Hannakim Delena
Photo Courtesy of Edson Swarovski Gonzales

MISS QUEEN PACIFIC 2019 TITLE HOLDER: MISS MEXICO- VIVIENNE MELANIE MESIAS

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

Miss Queen Pacific 2019 Title Holder
Miss Mexico- Vivienne Melanie Mesias

After 2 years of silence, the Casilleras Charity Organisation UK as a reborn charity reconvened its beauty pageant with a purpose entitled Miss Queen Pacific 2019. This U.K. charity organisation has been operating as a licensed society after its license approval in March 2017 by the Borough of Brent Council. It was set-up by energetic volunteers who committed to strengthening community relationships in the United Kingdom and across the oceans. The main aim of the charity is to compensate less fortunate individuals and assist vulnerable groups. This is accomplished by both organising stimulating sports activities and encouraging social events..

On the 30th of November this year, Miss Queen Pacific 2019 took place at Millennium Gloucester Hotel London in Kensington and was held in the Cromwell suite. It was well attended by the organisation’s supporters as well as admirers, friends and family members of the 8 determined candidates. Most of the colourful entrants came from across the U.K., Europe and Southeast Asia. Prior to the coronation night in November, the Casilleras Charity Organisation UK Reborn arranged a press conference on the 19th of October and also organised a talent night on the 20th of October. The press conference which was held at Grosvenor Casinos in Gloucester Road included the appearance of a few candidates. There was also a talent night which was held at FM Bar in Shepherd's Bush and showcased the flamboyant flair of the final candidates that was evaluated by a panel of judges.

During the coronation night at Millennium Gloucester Hotel London, the candidates flourished the event on stage. In each category they stupefied the audience during the group production number; the ostentatiousness of individual national costume; the prancing in titillating swimwear and the flouncing in elegant long gowns. Apart from that, there was also the ultimate final round and a complete flip side of the glamour called, the ultimate Question and Answer final. More importantly, these were assessed by high calibre members of the jury who gave fair-minded scores to each candidate in every category. Namely, Mr. John Middleton as judge #1; Alex Madia Levi as judge #2; Asam Ali as judge #3; Sumaiya Kolia as judge #4; Vicky Lee as judge #5; Dr. Vincent Wong as judge #6 and Abi Mohamed as judge #7.

On the night of the coronation of Miss Queen Pacific 2019, the audience was baffled and left in limbo as to why candidate number 7, Bianca Carreon, who represented Vietnam didn't get any placement even as a runner-up? More importantly, why the unanimously declared title holder was candidate number 1, Vivienne Melanie Mesias, who represented as Miss Mexico?

On the morning of the coronation night for Miss Queen Pacific 2019, the Casilleras Charity Organisation UK Reborn made a thoughtful alteration to the main sequence of the event. They omitted to announce the top 5 ranked candidates who would advanced into the initial Question and Answer round. These are the women who accumulated the highest scores in minor and major categories. Instead, they replaced this with all-inclusive finalists and all candidates advanced into the ultimate Question and Answer final. (source: Casilleras Charity Organisation UK Reborn)

The said alteration was suggested by the pageants' choreographer and stage director, Ronnie Del Barrio. According to the management team of the charity, they asked the candidates in the morning of the final rehearsal about the modification as well as explaining it to them comprehensively. Withal, they all agreed with the immediate alteration of the main sequence of the pageant with no manifested disapproval whatsoever. (source: Casilleras Charity Organisation UK Reborn)

During the presentation of minor and major awardees, one of the 8 candidates took home most of the awards. This was candidate number 7, Bianca Carreon, who represented Vietnam as her chosen country. This announcement of winners in each category was revealed before the ultimate Question and Answer final. As the candidates were informed beforehand that there's no longer the announcement of Top 5 ranked candidates, all candidates were automatically advanced into the ultimate final round of the pageant. Thus, it gave all candidates a fair chance to articulate their insights as what it is to become a beauty queen with a purpose.

The final round (the ultimate Question and Answer) on the night of the coronation was impartially scored and based upon the wit & intelligence as well as grace under pressure of each candidate on stage whilst delivering her answers. Thus, whoever gave the most comprehensive and eloquent answers was scored highly by the respective members of the jury. In this ultimate final round the candidates who scored highly as well as gave consistent performances in all categories were able to raise herself up and increase her chances of winning a placement or to wear the coveted crown.

When the ultimate Question and Answer final concluded, each candidate's score on this round was then combined to their accumulated scores from the 4 major categories. This was the tallied scores during the presentation of talents in October and the actual garnered scores in national costume, swimwear and long gown categories on the coronation night. It was then carefully computed by the adjudicator committee who ascertained the highest 5 ranking candidates. Thus, the final tabulation result, free from any bias, declared the deserving runners- up and the title holder of Miss Queen Pacific 2019 on the 30th of November. (source: Casilleras Charity Organisation UK Reborn)

From Left to Right
Abi Mohamed
Dr. Vincent Wong
?
3rd runner-up, Miss Colombia- Pola Morena
2nd runner-up, Miss China- Pawee Cadalzo
Miss Queen Pacific 2019 Title Holder, Miss Mexico- Vivienne Melanie Mesias
1st runner-up, Miss Japan- Valerie Louise
4th runner-up, Miss Philippines- Mikayla Sophia Narbuada
Vicky Lee
Alex Madia Levi
John Middleton

I like the usual idea of announcing the top 5 ranked candidates who will advance into the next round. In particular, if they deserve to be one of the finalists who will then take part as head-to-head hopefuls for the crown. I also like the all-inclusive finalists as it will give the underdogs (in minor and major categories) the chance to prove their worthiness and essence as a woman of substance.

In truth, when we decide to join in a competition we cannot precisely predict the outcome as it progresses. In particular, we commonly enter and show up as hopefuls who will either end up as clappers or the sole person who will wear the coveted crown. It is worth reminding ourselves that disparaging someone out of hearsay and false beliefs because of our disappointment (and dare I say, ego) will make us slightly inhumane.

The inflated ball is round and if it is your time to be on top of each competition, the ball will accordingly stabilise and you will eventually ascend!

*Photos courtesy of Ryan B.

the official photographer of 

Casilleras Charity Organisation UK Reborn 

THE IMPETUS ALTERNATIVE MISS LONDON 2019

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

From Left to Right
Alternative Miss London 2018, Miss Nicole Williams
Alternative Miss London 2019, Miss Iwa Moto

On the 28th of September this year, the 26th anniversary catwalk contest of the WayOut Club entitled Miss Alternative London took place at the Minories in London, United Kingdom. It was organised by the inspirational Miss Vicky Lee and bolstered by her closest hard working collaborators. They produced a dazzling spectacle which was attended by a swarm of LGBTQIA+ community members, admirers and compatible people. Kindly click the links beneath for supplementary and underpinning information,

https://quidnuncqueen.blogspot.com/2017/10/the-wayout-club-alternative-miss-london.html

https://quidnuncqueen.blogspot.com/2017/10/alternative-miss-london-2017.html

https://quidnuncqueen.blogspot.com/2019/08/alternative-miss-london-who-will-wear.html

The Alternative Miss London 2019 took place late at night. Taking part was a set of eager and flambouyant hopefuls. Generally speaking, each contestant had the opportunity to don herself in 3 categorised semblances. One by one they walked onto the improvised red carpet that was fastened and placed on the dance floor. They emerged from their tightly secured dressing room and swung around in front of the jury and the frisky crowd. Yes, there was "red ceremonial carpet" with crowd control stanchions that provided an unrestricted space for each contestant to prance back & forth. This was the replacement for the conventional and demountable 12-foot long platform stage with LED lights on the dance floor. Personally speaking, it was an avant-garde undertaking and a brilliantlly embracing arrangement!

Miss Nicole Williams and 
Contestant Number 1, Miss Iwa Moto

Miss Geri Love and
Contestant Number 2, Miss Jade Chloe Calolong

Miss Vicky Lee and 
Contestant Number 3, Miss Tiana Delosata

Contestant Number 4, Miss Jolie Cooper
and Miss Geri Love

Photo courtesy of Miss Geyzhel Sparkes' Facebook account

During the event, the familiar and sophisticated Miss Alexandra Marie Diaz who has been single- handedly hosting the event since 2014 was unable to attend due to personal commitments. That is why, the inspirational Miss Vicky Lee stepped into her shoes and delivered the affairs with aplomb. When Miss Vicky began holding the floor, signalling the start of proceedings for the contest, she called upon the presence of Miss Geyzhel Sparke to express her gratitude for her invaluable support and reinforcement. Thereafter, the members of the jury and the tabulator were introduced beginning with Miss Natasha Mckenzie- Daniels of Ted's Place; Doctor Woof of X Factor 2017 and the 'Cancer is a Drag' ambassador; the multi pageant title holder, Miss SaHHara; Miss Alex Ceciliato of Roma TV/TS Party in London and Lesly, the proficient recorder of the scores. They were all stationed on a roomy elevated section of the dance floor rather than the regular cramming spot with closed proximity to the conventional platform stage. Personally speaking, this change of layout was a wise plan as the members of the jury could attentively see and clearly view each contestant's creativity, seductiveness and elegance.

Miss Geyzhel Sparkes 
and Miss Vicky Lee

From Left to Right

Miss Natasha Mckenzie- Daniels
Doctor Woof
Miss SaHHara
Miss Alex Ceciliato

Without further ado, here are the contestants wearing their first semblance on the red carpet. It's their scintillating CREATIVE COSTUMES which were carefully remodelled.

After the appearance of the last contestant, Miss Jolie Cooper, the red carpet was then taken over by Miss Vicky Lee. After emphasizing the resourcefulness of the candidates and appreciating the ecstatic numbers of people, a first intermission number from the Dragqueen Showgirl Entertainer, Katt Kitten, took place. She invigorated the crowd with her vocal version of the late Whitney Houston's “Queen of the Night”.

The contestants dressing room door opened for the second category, SEXY COSTUME, and contestant number 1, Miss Iwa Moto, emanated wearing her evoking ensemble. In this category, the eagle eyed crowd witnessed an on cloud nine mutual promise of a later marriage to contestant number 3, Miss Tiana Delosata. After she won the hearts of everybody, especially her handsome boyfriend, she was named the Queen of Hearts during the proclamation of AML 2019 runners-up and the reigning Queen .

Miss Vicky Lee chatting to Miss Tiana Delosata and her Fiancé

For the verve in the crowd to sustain, Miss Geyzhel Sparkes lifted up her voice. She supplemented the crowd with her glamorous boogie rendition of “Aint Nobody (Loves Me Better)” song by Jasmine Thompson.

Miss Geyzhel's delivered number gave sufficient time for the contestants to glamorously restyle themselves. Each winsomely came into the light wearing monochromatic serpentine floor length EVENING GOWNS. Additionally, this was when the common question, “What is your wish for the World?”, was asked by Miss Vicky Lee to each contestant and their prepared written answers were also articulated by her. I have to say that contestant number 2, Miss Jade Chloe Calolong, was very coquettish in her embellished fringe sleeves see-through appliqué evening gown.

It was already in the wee hours of the morning and the crowd's peppy energy was still ascending. More so, when the “phoenix” urban pop singer, Miss Geri Love, influenced the dance floor with her “Love You Like A Love Song” by Selena Gomez.

What an ignitable emote voice Miss Geri has. Actually, her performance didn't just earn applause but also drew in a generous benefactor. After her bouncy performance, the 2018 Queen of Alternative Miss London, Miss Nicole Williams, was called upon by Miss Vicky Lee for her short and sweet farewell message. A finesse Queen who was very classy and stylish in her all pearly white motif.

Thenceforth, the Alternative Miss London 2019 runners-up and the Queen were declared by unanimous decision. To be more specific, the winner (runners-up and the Queen) was individually announced and called on to the red carpet to exclusively hold the spotlight and cherish her victory.  

From Left to Right

Miss Vicky Lee
Alternative Miss London 2019, Miss Iwa Moto
1st Runner- up, Miss Jolie Cooper
2nd Runner- up, Miss Jade Chloe Calolong
Miss Geyzhel Sparkes

From Left to Right

Queen of Birmingham, Miss Dayanara Mesmeize
Miss Tiana Delosata's Fiancé
Alternative Miss London 2018, Miss Nicole Williams
Alternative Miss London 2019 Queen of Hearts, Miss Tiana Delosata
Miss Mikaella Jane Attay

The Alternative Miss London 2019 catwalk contest may not have acquired a large numbers of contestants. However, the overall outcome- from night until the wee hours of the morning- had an affable & engaging feeling and more importantly, it filled the stomping ground with love. Not to mention, the battle of the contestants for the coveted crown/title was compassionate and never overshadowed by a pernicious strife!

ALTERNATIVE MISS LONDON: WHO WILL WEAR THE 2019 CROWN

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

Poster courtesy of
Alternative Miss London- WayOut Club's Facebook page

In 1993, the WayOut Club was founded and formed by Miss Vicky Lee and Stephan Whitffield. For the past years to date, the venue for this regular Saturday nightclub at the Minories in London has been operating for and welcoming the LGBTQIA+ community members; their admirers and compatible people. The club at the Minories in London is a comforting place which has a modernised heated beer garden; indoor drinking space; a fair-sized dance floor and security bouncers. Moreover, it has been operating as the main venue for the WayOut Club's annual catwalk contest entitled Alternative Miss London. 

Historically speaking, the Alternative Miss London event was created/founded in 1992 by the late co-founder and performer extraordinaire, Stephan Whitfield. Ever since then, this catwalk contest at the the WayOut Club has been the core eye-opener in sharing and unfolding its mission in London and beyond. It has been essentially showing how naturally beautiful, resourcefully creative and innately intelligent the transgender, transitioning and in full bloom, women are on and off stage.

The search is on...

Photo courtesy of Geyzhel Sparkes' Facebook account
From Left to Right
2nd Runner-up, Miss Clara Clyd Cosning
Alternative Miss London 2019, Miss Nicole Williams
1st Runner-up, Miss Iwa Moto 

Who will succeed the current title holder, Miss Nicole Williams? In particular, who amongst the unnamed contestants will favourably deserve to wear the Alternative Miss London 2019 crown?

Photo courtesy of Nicole Williams'' Facebook account

Photo courtesy of Nicole Williams'' Facebook account

For the past weeks to date, Miss Vicky Lee and her supportive family have been updating their social media accounts for the approaching 26th year anniversary of Alternative Miss London. An annual night catwalk contest for the beguiling candidates who will stupefyingly appear and swagger on stage. More importantly, it will become a significant show of remembrance to the founder and performer extraordinaire, Stephan Whitfield.

If you are interested in being one of the “icing on the cake” contestants, don't hesitate to send a message of interest onto the following accounts: 

https://www.facebook.com/vicky.leewayout 

https://www.facebook.com/Vicky.Lee.at.WayOut 

https://www.facebook.com/giizparks 

This coming 28th of September, the inspirational Miss Vicky Lee and her hard working family cordially invite us all to witness and be enchanted by the beauty of the desirous candidates as well as their leading-edge performances on stage. 

This year's Alternative Miss London will be held at The Minories located at 64-73 Minories, London EC3N 1JL. A traditional pub with beer garden and less than a minute walk from Tower Hill Underground Station. Here is the link of its location for your reference and courtesy of http://www.thewayoutclub.com, 

THE MINORIES AREA MAP 

The night at the Minories will undoubtedly teem with individuals who have been courageously embracing their true gender identities, gender expressions and sexual orientation. Its because, the WayOut Club- with the unceasing succour from the inspirational Miss Vicky Lee- has been the flambeau home for those struggling with anxieties and who are fearlessly proud in expressing themselves.

THE LARGESE: THE GRAND CORONATION NIGHT OF MISS TRANSBEAUTY 2019

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

Miss TransBeauty 2019
Miss Akiko Mae Obillo

StarVision UK Event Production and Management is a private group enterprise which provides high quality entertainment, photography/videography and other related services in London and beyond. The main objectives of their services to organisations/parties are, to set-up the best appearance of the visualised social gathering/festivity into a reality and to assist with the technical outline of the event during the actual date.. 

As StarVision UK gained a solid reputation, they began venturing into a supplementary field of interest. They embarked on creating and producing events of their own for a greater humanitarian cause. In particular, the materialisation of Mister and Miss Body Beautiful in 2017 was the first organised event of their own in London. Then, its favourable outcome paved the way to go for another conceptualised event: a beauty pageant for transgender women which was first thought of in the late of 2016. 

In 2018, when the founder, Ela Hidalgo, and the organiser, Randy Silverio, of StarVision UK Event Production and Management were pursuing the realistic creation of their secondary (halted) project they encountered provoking hurdles. One of these was, the withdrawal of support from a generous Fashion Designer who had verbally agreed with Ela Hidalgo to be a sponsor. Allegedly, the designer was going to provide some of the outfits and that would have moderated the expenses of the candidates. Sadly, this did not happen! Personally speaking, the promising sponsorship would have been a considerable relief not just for the flexible candidates but for the charitable cause. In particular, the accumulated funds for this undervalued beauty pageant for transgender women will benefit the underprivileged children in 2 places in San Fernando City, Upper Pao and Abot, La Union in the Philippines. Hence, the spectre shadows of hurdles and insufficient presence of generous benefactors in 2018 resulted to the halt production of Miss TransBeauty. 

In the early months of 2019, Ela Hidalgo and Randy Silverio were optimistically back on track again with the ultimate creation and production of Miss TransBeauty. They continued looking for more sponsors who would open-handedly contribute for a greater humanitarian cause and also, for candidates who would become the powerful image of the beauty pageant. 

Despite the fact that it was first conceptualised in 2016; briefly advertised in 2017 and tried to put forth in 2018, the long-winded creation and production of Miss TransBeauty in 2019 still met a few stumbling blocks. However, the combined resolute personalities of the founder and the organiser yielded to the fruition of the grand coronation night of Miss TransBeauty 2019.. 

Poster courtesy of StarVision UK's Facebook account

On the 27th of July this year, StarVision UK Event Production and Management have brought into existence their first conceptualised beauty pageant for a vital humanitarian cause. This was the persevered outcome of the vital "heads" in pursuing and finally surmounting the antecedent undermining challenges. Hence, a triumphant colourful procession of beauty, body and intellect of transgender women took place on the grand coronation night held at Baden Powell House in South Kensington. 

The Miss TransBeauty 2019 was single-handedly on stage by a sophisticated hostess, Alexandra Marie Diaz. She appeared throughout the show wearing colourful dresses. It was a piece by piece appearance in which she wore three different outfits which embodied the shades of the flag of the Republic of the Philippines. 

(Photos courtesy of Alexandra Marie Diaz)

The buoyant and prancy candidates on stage were evaluated by high calibre members of the jury. Namely, judge #1, Steven St. Catherine (model & actor); judge #2, Emma Jay Baker (Miss Paragon International); judge #3, Rihannon 'D Avec (London Runway Magazine editor in chief); judge #4 Dele Onabowu (Miss Africa Director); judge #5, Glaiza De Castro (actress & singer) and judge #6 Leila Samati (Miss Africa). 

The crowd's exhilarating energy during the panoply of candidates was sustained more by a few intermission numbers from the youngster artists within the Filipino community. Moreover, a breather also took place in the style of raffle draw. The lucky winners were pampered with prizes generously contributed by sponsors. 

During the ostentations show-off on stage, the crowd was intensely astonished by candidates with body & stature in SWIMWEAR;

beauty & groove in CASUAL WEAR; 

cheer & vision in TALENT; creativity & ingenuity in FANTASY WEAR; 

class & elegance in EVENING GOWN and self composure & substance in QUESTION & ANSWER. 

The affirmed winners in each category were impartially scored by the respective members of the jury. While the gathered score sheets were even-handedly calculated by a chosen committee of tabulators. Apart from the evaluations of the jury for minor awards, there were also specials awards given to the radiant candidates. Such as, the beforehand votes from the social media users; the applause of the crowd during the grand coronation night and the tally recommendations from the candidates. 

Miss Elegance 
candidate #7, Miss Cassandra Concepcion 

Best in Casual Wear 
candidate #5, Miss Akiko Obillo 

Best in Fantasy Wear 
candidate #7, Miss Cassandra Concepcion 

Best in Swimwear 
candidate #5, Miss Akiko Obillo

Miss London Organic Beauty 
candidate #5, Miss Akiko Obillo 

Best in Evening Wear 
candidate #5, Miss Akiko Obillo

Best in Talent 
candidate #5, Miss Akiko Obillo 

Miss TransBeauty- Online Sensation 
candidate #4, Miss Paw Cadalzo 

Face of the StarVision UK 
candidate #4, Miss Paw Cadalzo 

Miss Congeniality
candidate #3, Miss Maria Ara 

Princess of the Crowd 
candidate #5, Miss Akiko Obillo 

It is a common practice in pageantry to have the nerve-racking Question and Answer section. This is when a contestant is judge mainly by the content of his/her answer and also, on his/her delivery. On this part of the grand coronation night of Miss TransBeauty 2019, the gathered scores of each candidate during the minor and special categories were nullified and their hierarchy was back to square one. Thus, each candidate was neutrally evaluated by the jury as per her articulation on stage while explaining a meaningful answer to a chosen question. Therefore, the deserving runners-up and the crown holder, as per the ranking during the Q&A section, for Miss TransBeauty 2019 were: 

From Left to Right
1st Runner-up 
candidate #7, Miss Cassandra Concepcion  
Miss TransBeauty 2019 
candidate #5, Miss Akiko Obillo 
2nd Runner-up 
candidate #4, Miss Paw Cadalzo 

Every event has groups or tribes who coalesce together as audience: overall is a crowd. They will cheer and support their candidate(s). On the other hand, behind the spectacle on stage displayed by the candidates was a show created and produced for a vital humanitarian cause. Hence, there is a story which awaits to be revealed and told!

THE IMPERTURBABLE MISS AMAZING MIDLAND 2019: THE BATTLE OF THE QUEENS

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

Miss Amazing Midlands 2019: The Battle of the Queens
Miss Akiko Mae Obillo

It was on a gloriously sunny day when I began my train excursion from London Euston station to Birmingham New Street station. Half way on my journey, the balmy weather suddenly changed; the nippy air coming from the outside windows vacillated on the train. I could feel the chill around my shoulder and unfortunately, I had no way to make myself snug. The consequence of forgetting my thin jacket on the back seat of the car and for not incorporating it beforehand in my rucksack. On a brighter side, it wasn't that freezing cold and was passable enough to bear until I reached my destination. 

I was heading to the venue of Birmingham- Sandwell West Midlands Filipino Festival (formerly known as Birmingham- Sandwell West Midland Fiesta Celebration) in Bearwood's Lightwoods Park when the nature's refreshing drizzle ensued. A very invigorating about-face from the usual hot and humid weather during summertime in the United Kingdom. Most of the carefree visitors in the park didn't mind the abrupt presence of the fine rain. However, we didn't anticipate that it would leaped into a cats-and-dogs weather condition. Thankfully, the heavy rain moderated and the scheduled time for the Miss Amazing Midlands 2019: The Battle of the Queens kicked-off.

On the 06th of July this year, the cheerful personalities and kindling voices of the hosts, Alexandra Marie Diaz and Julious Labao, on stage initiated the commencement of the 1st day of Birmingham- Sandwell West Midlands Filipino Festival. A 2-day exclusive event in Birmingham and Beyond by the BFBCV (Birmingham Filipino- British Community Volunteers) to which the gasconade pageantry of Miss Dayanara Mesmeize, the chairperson of Dayanara Marques de Araneta Production, for transgender women was the highlight on the 1st day.

The cheerful personalities and kindling voices of the hosts
 Alexandra Marie Diaz and Julious Labao

During the commencement, the hosts called upon the crowd's attention for the customary introduction and remarks. Amongst these were, the acknowledgement of the invaluable BFBCV officials and their chairperson; the presence of bountiful sponsors as well as to welcome the humanitarian activist and the Sandwell Metropolitan Borough councillor, Ahmad Bostan. Subsequently, the crowd was also diverted to a few intermission numbers from the energetic adolescent dancers; the melodic voices of youngster singers and the riveting talents of the Chinese community performers, Moon Dancers, before the pageantry set in motion.

The invaluable BFBCV officials and their chairperson

The humanitarian activist and the Sandwell Metropolitan Borough councillor
Ahmad Bostan

The panel members of the jury and the chairperson

The crowd was awakened and to stimulate it more, the panel members of the jury and the chairperson for Miss Amazing Midlands 2019: The Battle of the Queens were welcomed one-by-one. Thereafter, from the eight (8) predisposed candidates came the bravura display of their fabulous SEXY FANTASY COSTUMES.

It indeed reassembled the mood of the slumberous crowd and revived the oblivious element within their neck of the woods. In order to maintain the response of the crowd, while the candidates were carefully removing their costumes at the back of the stage for the next show off, the attention then veered to the Chinese community duo performers and the compassionate voices of sibling singers. 

The ignited and unruffled candidates were chronologically called upon on stage by the hosts. This was the impish spectacle and not a complete flip-side of their sexy costumes. Each candidate buoyantly pranced on stage at their own pace whilst wearing titillating SWIMSUITS.

The candidates were all invited to appear on stage in one elongated line whilst facing the crowd. Then, the hostess, Alexandara Marie Diaz, gaily asked the crowd if they would like to see the gulping traditional 360-degree turn around. In particular, to catch a glimpse as to who amongst the eight (8) candidates had the physically fit and hourglass figure as well as the buffet booty. Who do you think flattered the eyes of the jury and unanimously won the Best in Swimsuit title?

The raw scoresheets for the swimsuit were collected by the tabulation committee. While the candidates vamoosed the examining eyes of the crowd, a few intermission numbers followed. Like the teenyboppers dance group who gained resonant cheers from the adolescent audience and the funky dance group in which a few BFBCV officials were involved. Their bouncy moves on stage vibrated in the surroundings.

After the “Dangerous” dance music with the BFBCV officials, the laid-back candidates were presented to the crowd and carried out individually their prepped TALENTS on stage.

The funky dancers with the BFBCV officials were back on stage but this time, they were whimsical dancers. They donned themselves in colourful and playful Hawaiian costumes. Along with and who also blew away the crowd, were the enchanting voices of the “Wiggins Sisters” and a solo young singer who winsomely tuned a Filipino song entitled “Buwan” by Juan Karlos Labajo.

After hearing a nationalistic song with poetic lyrics, the candidates glamorously appeared one by one on stage wearing their intricate design EVENING GOWNS. All of them elegantly walked with their body fitting flowy gowns.

After brandishing classiness in bearing their evening gowns, each candidate was requested to appear back on stage for the jittery Question & Answer section. A big round of applause to all of the candidates for retaining self-composure and standing with immense level-headedness.

To give everyone a a break from the more cerebral Question & Answer, a raffle draw then took place which were supervised by the hosts and a BFBCV official on stage. The lucky winners were called upon to collect their substantial prizes. Congratulations to all the fortuitous visitors! On the other hand, Ambie Da Diva and another performer dynamically entertained the crowd in their vocal range.

The candidates were given sufficient time to prepare themselves for the ultimate round. This was the grandstand and ostentatious appearance of each candidate whilst wearing exquisite FILIPINIANA GOWNS.

They were all called back on stage and upon assembling as one, a depiction of very colourful photograph emerged!

The time was ticking but the tabulation committee wasn't finished yet in calculating the scoresheet for each category. That is why, the upbeat crowd was entertained by a few spontaneous performances.

When the tabulation committee had finished calculating the scoresheet for each category, the chairperson handed over the prepared envelopes to the hosts. In each envelope was the unanimously decided winner for each category. The computation of each raw scoresheet acquired from the jury was administrated by its chairperson, Miss Amanda Roberts, and assisted by Bianca Carreon, Jazmine Fabregas and Maria Samantha Mendez. Here are the vanquishers for each category:

Best in Fantasy Sexy Costume 

candidate #8, Miss Akiko Mae Obillo 

Best in Swimsuit 

candidate #8, Miss Akiko Mae Obillo

Best in Talent 

candidate #8, Miss Akiko Mae Obillo

Best in Evening Gown 

candidate #8, Miss Akiko Mae Obillo 

Miss Intellectual

candidate #6, Miss Thalia

Best in Filipiniana 

candidate #6, Miss Thalia

Darling of the Crowd 

candidate #8, Miss Akiko Mae Obillo 

At the event, during the announcement of a particular special award to the winning candidate, the Tabulation committee of the Dayanara Marques de Araneta Production made an unfortunate error. This was the unfortunate error in the Best in Swimsuit scoresheet which was discovered during the awarding and after the event.

The regrettable error that was discovered after the event by the chairperson, Miss Dayanara Mesmeize, was formally rectified in a form of official statement and public apology. In particular, to proclaim that the legitimate winner for the Best in Swimsuit of Miss Amazing Midlands 2019: The Battle of the Queens, was candidate number 8, Miss Akiko Mae Obillo.

Here is a transcript copy of Official Statement and Pubic Apology of Dayanara Marques de Araneta Production and its Tabulation Committee together with the BFBCV (Birmingham Filipino- British Community Volunteers) Chairman and Officials.

Click to enlarge image

After the hurly-burly scene on stage, during the announcement of special awards, the unanimously decided runners-up and the crown holder of Miss Amazing Midlands 2019: The Battle of the Queens are:

2nd Runner-up 

candidate #3, Miss Iwa Moto Hardy

1st Runner-up 

candidate #6, Miss Thalia 

Miss Amazing Midlands 2019: The Battle of the Queens 

candidate #8, Miss Akiko Mae Obill

It was a successful pageantry despite the “come rain or shine” weather condition, so it followed the programme of events. It gave an opportunity to a few rising performers within the Filipino community and Beyond. However, it was also a disheartening extravaganza as there was no “side-by-side" photograph of the runners-up and the crown holder. It would have been a virtuous representation of the imperturbable image for Miss Amazing Midlands 2019: The Battle of the Queens and the LGBTQI+ community.

The chairperson and organiser ofDayanara Marques de Araneta Production
Photo courtesy of Dayanara Mesmeize's Facebook account

Our utmost THANK YOU to the chairperson and organiser, Miss Dayanara Mesmeize, for conceptualising and producing this beauty pageant for the past 4 years to date. This has been her core platform in raising immense awareness of the resolute presence and the profound beauty of the transgender women in the community of Birmingham and Beyond.

A rumour was disseminated that Miss Dayanara Mesmeize will never organise this iconic extravaganza again in Birmingham. This year is her last conceptualised engaging beauty pageant. We are hoping, in the course of time, that she will reconsider her decision that was prompted by insinuations and feeling under pressure from bad feelings in some quarters.