Rocio Castellanos - Miss Earth Dominican Republic 2012 Profile

Rocio Castellanos

Miss Earth Dominican Republic 2012

BIO:
Age: 25
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 135lbs.
Vital Stats: 36"-26"-38"
Hometown: Santiago de los Caballeros
Profession: Artchitect and Model
Notes: Competed in Miss Continente Americano 2009; 4th run-up in Reina Hipanoamericana 2009

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
I’d create awareness among people through educational campaigns by providing information on how to protect and care for our mother earth. The world is being affected by technological progress and rapid population growth, upsetting the biological balance of the earth, and these affect directly or indirectly the human being. With simple facts, like using low consumption bulbs, saving water, not throwing garbage in inappropriate places, using less plastics, etc., we could contribute to heal the earth. In the world there is almost 7 million people and the responsibility is for each and every one of us. Remember, sometimes little things can do a big difference.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
What makes me more proud of my country is the people, by the greatness they possess as human beings, the love they give, the values ​they hold, the sympathy and joy that they transmit, the way they see life. I am proud that God gave me the privilege of being born in the Dominican Republic. A little island, located in the heart of the Caribbean, endowed with beautiful beaches, a wonderful mountain biodiversity, rivers, a small sample of wilderness, a pleasant tropical climate, a country full of culture and a very interesting history, We are the first city in the new world, we have a colonial city known worldwide for its history.

Describe your childhood/growing years:
My childhood was based on the family; I come from a strong family with strong ties, a family based on love and values. Since childhood my belief in God was instilled in me. My parents worked hard to gave me the foundation to be a good person in the society. Since my childhood I remember in my parents the gift of help others. Thanks to that foundation I had from my childhood, I am the person who I am today, a determined person, fighter, honest and persevering, but especially with a huge desire to help, to serve and to be able to face any challenge that comes in my way.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
Through the various experiences that God has allowed in my life and what my parents have taught me, I learned that the most important thing in a person is his integrity. Being honest and sincere, and always have as an irrevocable entity the values ​and principles. My philosophy of life are in two sentences, "I am the architect of my own destiny" and "Live to serve, not serve to live."

What is your most memorable moment?
It is so difficult to choose one memorable moment of my childhood/growing years, cause almost all of the memories I have are amazing in their particular way. However, choosing one of it, I must say, that the most memorable moment was two years ago when I went to make a donation of medical equipments to Haiti a couple of months after the disaster. I together with some other members of a foundation went to donate a medical equipment, when we got to Jacmel. We went to visit a tent city which was more or less like a homeless shelter. There we saw how men, women and children try to go on with their life with the little things that they had and with no humanitarian quality possible, with shortages of food, no medicine, but still, hopeful, full of joy amidst their own grief and with a huge desire to live and to move forward. I came home with a broken heart but saw life in a totally different way. Many times we worry and give importance to what really does not matter, for that reason it’s my passion to help the environment prevent pollution. We can mitigate and reduce these natural disasters which happens in defense of our mother earth.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
As an architect, I've been working with the term sustainable architecture for some time, that’s why I choose the green roof. Green roofs serve several purposes for a building, such as absorbing rainwater, providing insulation, creating a habitat for wildlife, and helping to lower urban air temperatures and mitigate the heat island effect. Worldwide, of the 100% water that exists, 97.5% of it is salty and only 2.5% is fresh water. Of this percentage, 70% is locked, meaning it is retained in icecaps or permafrost, 29.6% is stored and only 0.4% is available for human consumption in the world. Of the 65% of that 0.4% is used for agriculture, 27% for industrial use and only 8% is for domestic use. The FAO and the ONU estimates that by the 2025 the war in between countries is going to be for water. That’s why, by recycling rainwater, and using it for domestic household, we are reducing the waste of freshwater in the world.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
I emphasize creating awareness again, that is the most important step, the rest comes along. In my country, the cost of the energy is quite high and the service is very poor, that has led the people and businesses to find sustainable energy alternatives and have opted for solar panels. Despite its high cost it is preferable. Despite doing it for financial reasons or quality, the truth is, perhaps without noticing, they’re helping the environment reduce pollution. We all can make a big difference; by just adding a grain of sand.

Other information that you would like to share with the Miss Earth Management:
It’s an honor for me to participate in the Miss Earth pageant. First of all, thank you for giving me the opportunity to be an ambassador of my lovely country. For me as an architect and as a beauty ambassador I commit to be a voice for the care of Mother Earth.

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* See also Miss Earth 2012 Special Coverage

Belinda Jensen - Miss Earth Denmark 2012 Profile

Belinda Jensen

Miss Earth Denmark 2012

BIO:
Age: 22
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 134lbs.
Vital Stats: 31"-27"-36"
Hometown: Tolloce
Profession: Student and Entrepreneur

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
My main project will be to teach kids and young people about sustainable behavior. I believe that we can make a change if we all change our behavior. As adults and grown ups, behavior turn into habits, and habits are a lot harder to change. Therefore I will give children a healthy approach to the world and how to treat it, just as my parents taught me. I will let them know the consequences of the human beings inacceptable behavior in the past. This is one of the objectives that ARE changeable, reachable and last but not least possible. But the success of these changes that I am stating here, and that my fellow delegates are sharing with you in their entry form, are all dependent on one thing: our politicians. Denmark has, during the past few years, hosted several international conventions with the purpose of creating green growth and minimizing pollution. Our prime minister has begged for the participating countries to take action, but it seems that business is above sustainability, and therefore my second approach to this issue, is to make the politicians all over the world, aware that all the time they spend on talking about solutions that they will never agree on is a waste of time and that they have to face the reality, grow up – and act! The politicians need to take the first steps, otherwise we can’t move on with the good intentions that we have. With that said, I am proud to be Danish since these conventions had not been all talk and time wasters, but most countries had reached an agreement on certain issues, and made an action- plans for the future.

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Tereza Fajksova - Miss Earch Czech Republic 2012 Profile

Tereza Fajksova

Miss Earth Czech Republic 2012

BIO:
Age: 23
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 125lbs.
Vital Stats: 34"-25"-36"
Hometown: Ivancice
Profession: Student
Notes: 2nd run-up in Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International 2010; Top 24 in Miss Bikini International 2011

INTERVIEW:


What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
I would create the "Learn, See, and Do" project. This project will involve convincing and influencing governments around the world to make environmental studies compulsory in early education. It has to be fun to make it easy for kids to learn about the benefits. The curriculum would also need to include activities so kids get to see the difference. If children learn about the environment from an early age, they are more likely to continue this behavior in their adult years.

Describe your childhood/growing years:
My childhood was very happy. I had loving parents and grandparents. I played with other children and at school I thrived with honors. I drove with my parents on vacation to the cottage to the dam. I loved times spent with my grandparents, like fishing, picking mushrooms and walking. I was really the happiest child in the world with my brother. I thank God for it every day and I really appreciate it.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
Not climb to trees, not to walk on thin ice in the winter and not jump into the water which you never saw.

What is your most memorable moment?
My most memorable moment is fishing with my grandfather and every happy memory in my mind.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
I believe that a lot of people want to help the environment but just don't know how to make a difference. If it's too hard to do, then people just won't do it, so my environmental advocacy is recycling. Recycling is easy and which everyone can do. Some countries have recycling bins for each house which is making it easy for people at home to recycle. But this is only half the solution. What about the workplace? For example, in a workplace where there is a rubbish bin under every desk, it's easy for people to put their rubbish in the bin. A lot of this rubbish can be recycled but because the bin is under their desk it's easy just to put the rubbish there. My solution would be to remove the bin from every desk and have central recycling stations where people can put their rubbish in the right recycling bin. They would also color coded so it's easy to know where to put the trash. This solution is also beneficial as it gets people away from their desks to walk which is good for their health. Imagine if more and more buildings had this solution, and because it's so easy to do, it would have an instant impact on the amount of rubbish that is dumped in landfills which is hazardous to the earth due to plastics. The effort is small but the impact is huge.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
I would recommend to all law makers around the world that as part of providing approval for any new house or apartment building the new development must be required to generate at least 25% of their energy from solar energy. Solar energy is sustainable and technology is well developed that the costs are not too high. But if more people use it the costs will come down further.

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Teuira Napa - Miss Earth Costa Rica 2012 Profile

Fabiana Granados

Miss Earth Costa Rica 2012

BIO:
Age: 22
Height: 5'7.5"
Weight: 114lbs.
Vital Stats: Measurements: 34"-24"-35"
Hometown: Hojancha
Profession: Student
Notes: Queen of Police in Reinado Internacional del Cafe 2012; Top 6 in Miss Continente Americano 2012; 1st run-up in Miss Panamerican 2012

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
I will plant trees close to rivers, also I think its very important recollect the garbage and recycle them as possible. If many people would think in that way we will have a better world.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
I come from a country without armies so the resources are used for education for kids. We are friendly with the environment since Costa Rica is called a Green Country. Costa Rica ranks fifth worldwide in the classification of the Environmental Performance Index 2012 and the first among the countries in the Americas. The country's biodiversity attracts nature lovers from all over the world. National parks cover almost 12% of the country, and forest reserves and Indian reservations boost the protected land area to 27%. With only 0.03% of the global land surface, Costa Rica has approximately 6% of the biodiversity of our planet. It is the country with greatest biodiversity per square kilometer of territory Ecotourism is extremely popular with foreign tourists who visit the large number of national parks and protected areas that exist throughout the country. My country was a pioneer in ecotourism and is recognized as one of the few with real choices for nature. In Tourism Competitiveness Index ranking in Travel and Tourism 2009, Costa Rica peaked at 42, being ranked first among Latin American countries.

Describe your childhood/growing years:
My growing years were beautiful. I spent lot of time with my brothers. In school I met my life friends.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
Everybody has to work to get the success and learn from the failure. For each target you most have a positive mind and accept the results.

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Cindy Kohn-Cybulkiewicz - Miss Earth Colombia 2012 Profile

Cindy Kohn-Cybulkiewicz

Miss Earth Colombia 2012

BIO:
Age: 25
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 125lbs.
Vital Stats: 35"-24"-36"
Hometown: Maicao
Profession: Environmentalist

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
The environmental project I’m working on to promote the protection of mother earth is the use of LED lights for sustainable energy. The reason why I chose to work with LED lights is because it is something that can be used worldwide and is an easy and plausible change. LED lights are an extremely efficient form of lighting. Not only are they, environmentally safe and efficient, but their life span is longer than incandescent bulbs, and they have a much lower carbon footprint than that of incandescent bulbs. I chose them for their low waste reduction, recyclability, and being mercury free. I want to spread awareness, educate the public on the benefits of LED lights, and be able to reach all parts of the world. It is said that the building sector account for about 40% of global energy use, so being able to work with this percentage can really make a global impact.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
In general everything about my country makes me proud, But to be more specific I will say its culture and folklore , including its music, art , dance and writers. Our diverse ethnic groups, has created an amazing mix of culture creating a unique country. Another amazing part of Colombia is the biodiversity, its multi climate characteristics that make it very unique in South America from high ice mountains to beautiful beaches. And the most important thing its people, We Colombians are very happy and energetic. I am proud to represent a Country where people like to give the best of them to try to show how good we are.

Describe your childhood/growing years:
I have such great and vivid memories of my childhood years. We were and still are a very tight knit family- my parents and my older brother, so we always played and spent time together. We had family BBQ's every Sunday, and I remember playing sports with my brother after school. Another reason why we were so close was because my brother was born sick so we all worked together to help him get better and succeed in life, and he always had such a larger than life personality that made us laugh so much and appreciate the little things.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
There are two lessons that everyone eventually learns in life but I am thankful I learned at such a young age, which are the value of life and money. Due to my brother being in and out of the hospital the first seven years of his life, I learned to enjoy life to the fullest at a young age. I also learned what the value of money was. My family went through a rough time economically and although we went from being able to travel and buy most of what we wanted to having no vacation for years and hand me downs, my parents made sure that we still had love, we still laughed and we were still happy. So I learned that although money may facilitate many things, it's an entity that comes and goes and it does not define our character, our happiness, or us.

What is your most memorable moment?
One of the most memorable moments was in ninth grade. In our school it was mandatory for ninth graders to go on Outward Bound, which was basically kayaking and surviving in the everglades for five days. We were split up into groups of eight with two guides who taught us basic survival skills, how to read a compass, a map, and things of that nature. On the last day they pointed to a spot on the map and told us that was our end point and we had to get there without their help. I learned a lot about my leadership skills, and realized that I understood what they had taught me and could lead a group. Even though it took hours and we kayaked in the rain, when we got to our destination it was such a great feeling of accomplishment I will never forget.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
The environmental project I’m working on to promote the protection of mother earth is the use of LED lights for sustainable energy. The reason why I chose to work with LED lights is because it is something that can be used worldwide and is an easy and plausible change. LED lights are an extremely efficient form of lighting. Not only are they, environmentally safe and efficient, but their life span is longer than incandescent bulbs, and they have a much lower carbon footprint than that of incandescent bulbs. I chose them for their low waste reduction, recyclability, and being mercury free. I want to spread awareness, educate the public on the benefits of LED lights, and be able to reach all parts of the world. It is said that the building sector account for about 40% of global energy use, so being able to work with this percentage can really make a global impact.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
There are two tips that I would like to share to promote sustainable energy for all. First and most importantly is the need to educate yourself. You need to educate yourself in order to understand what to do and why you should do it. You need to understand the problem in order to be part of the solution. My second tip is not to forget the little things. I feel that a lot of times people do want to help in saving the planet and solve all these big issues like ozone depletion and water pollution and they get so caught up in trying to figure out how to solve issues that would take years and involve many people to find a solution that they forget daily the small things such as turning of the lights or turning of the water while brushing your teeth. With billions of people on the planet if everyone would remember to turn off the water while brushing their teeth that would save so much water. In addition, I would spread awareness about my environmental advocacy, LED lights.

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Jen-Ling Lu - Miss Earth Chinese Taipei 2012 Profile

Jen-Ling Lu

Miss Earth Chinese Taipei 2012

BIO:
Age: 23
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 121lbs.
Vital Stats: 34"-25"-36"
Hometown: Taipei

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
I will promote the anti-nuclear project and ocean protection project in advance. Nature should be the way they are. Man-made production is just like additional flavorings of dishes: less is more. Nuclear energy is fully made by human. I think we should have more protection after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster. I prefer to use Alternative Energy to avoid the tragedy. Approximately 72% of the planet's surface is covered by water. Therefore, ocean has power to change the earth ecology. Ocean cannot fix itself with too much waste from industry, fishing boat, sea floor exploration and mining industry. I know if we can protect the ocean more, the damage on earth will be less.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
Taiwan acquired the name Formosa or beautiful island because of her nature beauty. We have beaches, coasts, mountains, forests, wetlands, canyon, bays, lagoons, coral reefs and amazing nature spots. Because of the weather, Taiwan has varieties of fruit. They’re so juicy and nutritious. Our people are generous and hospitable. We become close easily and love to help others and foreigners. There has so much delicious food stands and restaurants in night market. And we have many night markets that attract people. The number of convenient stores here is highest number in the world. Taiwanese pride themselves in their hospitality, and are committed to creating a friendly and convenient living environment for others. Taiwan is extremely famous for being eco-friendly. We have the policy of per-bag trash collection fee in Taipei city. And last Taiwan has the world’s tallest eco-building Taipei 101.

Describe your childhood/growing years (8-13 years old)
Without my mother, who passed away when I was a 5-year-old child, my father is my closest family member. He always taught me and my brother to respect our motherland so that I can develop respect for others. We were living in a country near the strait in Taiwan. Therefore, the impressive memory in my childhood is that I usually went to the port, fishing with my father, swimming, hanging around in fish market, doing any outdoor sport and activities. Those times made me familiar with water. That’s the reason why I am outgoing and energetic.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
I am independent and tolerant. And I learned to share love and happiness with others since I know this is the best way to find love. “Less is more” is what I learned from the past. The best progress is to be balanced. With passion for the ocean, I became concerned about marine conservation. The wonderful color of the sea should be cherished by humans on earth. I realize that every man can be courageous enough to influence others towards the right idea in maintaining clean environment for communities, nations and the whole planet. A thought was nurtured which led me to do something helpful for our earth, which could make us enjoy our lives and give us the essential element of life.

What is your most memorable moment?
A scene I couldn’t imagine before is the moment I won the title of Miss Taiwan til I really got it. It gives me chances to travel around, experiencing different cultures by making friends with girls from nations, introducing my country and letting me know it’s possible to broadcast ideals to the world. And when I was singing on stage for the audience at the finals in Albania, I felt so inspired to share what’s in my heart to everyone. I still cannot forget the feeling and the trembling. It gave me strength to carry on. I felt an immense gratitude to the judges and audience for recognizing me and knowing who I am. At the finals I won Miss Talent.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
In my opinion, my goal is to raise awareness of environmental protection. We can act much better if we realize its importance. So I prefer to let everyone know how to use sustainable energy by promoting green consumption and green building in our daily life. I would like to suggest making a series of videos about environmental advocacies. Through power of media, the ideas will be deeply rooted in our minds. These will not just educate the next generation but bring us to start taking action individually.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
We can purchase green products and support companies that create of these ideas and products. For example, using compact fluorescent light bulbs, installing Solar Hot Water, changing to energy-efficient appliances, these are basic knowledge of green life. If we want to spread these tips, we can use the power of social network. Using youtube for uploading videos daily, writing blogs for facebook, twitter and google+ and setting a green center/ shop/mall/store up where our environmental projects can be easily searched. As long as it will be managed patiently and creatively, will be a great way to promote sustainable energy.

Other information that you would like to share with the Miss Earth Management:
I cannot wait to be in this meaningful beauty pageant. It does not only broaden my vision but it enables me to promote such wonderful ideas internationally. Thanks to MEM for giving this opportunity for nations to communicate. I have heard that the Philippines has amazing scenery of nature and beautiful islands so I’m pretty excited about this trip. I sincerely wish the best to you all.

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* See also Miss Earth 2012 Special Coverage

Valerie Remillard - Miss Earth Canada 2012 Profile

Valerie Remillard

Miss Earth Canada 2012

BIO:
Age: 24
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 107lbs.
Vital Stats: Measurements: 32"-24"-35"
Hometown: Saint-Felix-de-Valois
Profession: Registered Nurse

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
The project I would like to create to promote the protection of Mother Earth is a combination of my profession as a Nurse and Education. I would like to talk to children about the importance of living clean and green and its effect in living a good and healthy lifestyle.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
What makes me proud of my country is the open mindedness of the Canadians and their willingness to learn, evolve and welcome new cultures. My country is like a huge family where everyone can practice and be proud of their ethnic customs and diversity. I would like to promote and applaud Canada’s efforts and participation on the world stage as a strong voice for both moral and environmental awareness. National and International focus and initiatives in protecting the environment are essential to our global family and Canada has a position and perspective that contributes to meaningful solutions. My country’s commitment to themes of human justice, liberty and international peacekeeping is a shining example for the world.

Describe your childhood/growing years:
My childhood was very happy. I am fortunate to have parents who love their children. Growing in a rural setting I was able to develop a healthy attitude towards the needs of a balanced environment. My parents gave me an education based on honesty, simplicity and sharing. Education has always been a priority. I was taught that we must work to achieve our ideals. I have only good memories of that time. I recall happy and fulfilling days sharing with my family so many healthy and fun activities. I’ve always tried to live life to the full and learning its lesson and taking responsibility for my actions.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
What I learned from my childhood is that it is important to be yourself no matter what challenges are faced. To be honest, authentic and natural is what most important in becoming ourselves. I learned to identify my priorities in life. In defining my values as a person it takes hard work and dedication. Never give up on your dreams. Always remember where you have come from. And I believe that it’s very true that each and every person is unique and can bring something to making our world a better place.

What is your most memorable moment?
One of the most memorable moments of my life was when I sang at the funeral of my grandfather. It was a moment of great pride for me. Singing in a church for a very important person in my life filled me with emotions. I knew at that moment that my grandfather was there with me. When I saw the face of my grandmother I knew that what I was experiencing was probably one of the most beautiful moments of my life.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
Recycling is one the small acts we can perform which can make a difference towards the common good. We need to educate and bring attention to what we can and must do. Children are the future, let’s show the way to them as well as our selves and ensure a future of environmental harmony.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
We must be aware that what we do now will have an impact on the future. The advice I would like to give would be that we all must be alert and concious in our daily lives; save electricity, pay attention to water consumption and to the comsumer products that impact negatively on the environment.

Other information that you would like to share with the Miss Earth Management:
For me, the environment is particularly important as I come from a small village where agriculture is a key part of life. I feel that I am a natural and authentic person who lives the simple pleasure of life. I work as nurse in the hospital and contact with people is something I truly value. For me, the pleasure is to live every moment of life as if it were the last. I want to participate in the world, learn and promote environmental awareness.

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* See also Miss Earth 2012 Special Coverage

Camila Brant - Miss Earth Brazil 2012 Profile

Camila Brant

Miss Earth Brazil 2012

BIO:
Age: 22
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 130lbs.
Vital Stats: 33"-24"-37"
Hometown: Patos de Minas
Profession: Student and Model
Notes: Competed in Miss Intercontinental 2009

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
The project I have been working with is the use of clean energy source, it does not pollute the environment, and also renewable homemade solar heater provides collective and individual benefits. Since it contributes to reduce the consumption of electricity, which not only affects the environment ecologically, but it also has a high cost for families. I believe that this method can be worked within the public and private schools in Brazil, in order to educate children and teenagers about methods that help at home and also the Brazilian environment. This is the chance to spread this project, which can be implemented in other countries and I hope we all together can make a better world and ecologically sustainable. This is the future!

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
When I think about Brazil, I think about the diversity of cultures getting along peacefully and lovingly. Brazil has extremely strong family values and I hope to use this as a strength we need to protect our future generations. Brazil is on our way to hosting the Olympics in the near future along with the world cup. Our country is improving itself in many ways including protecting the planet by widely using ethanol, a sustainable fuel. Our hearts and country are always open to the world.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
The most important lesson I learned from childhood, was to practice our Christian faith on a daily basis, turning bad situations into good. Always tell the truth, respect and love your family, and work hard and most of all treat others how you’d like to be treated yourself. Practicing these morals gives me confidence and the ability to make everyday choices with ease.

What is your most memorable moment?
My most memorable moment was when I got a surprise birthday party. I had been away for 4 months being in the US. When I came back to Brazil everybody was in a huge room waiting for me. That moment was unforgettable. It was an unexpected moment.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
The project has a low cost since it uses recyclable materials and can be produced at home. In addition, the materials used, PET bottles and milk cartons harm the environment because they can spend more than 100 years to decay. For a family of four people, 240 plastic bottles and 220 milk cartons are used. PVC pipes are installed inside of PET bottles, which have cut the base and take clippings of long-life packaging. When passing through the pipes, the water reaches 38 ° C in winter and can pass 50 ° C in summer. The equipment does not require much maintenance. The ideal is that the bottles are changed every five years and that the parts are thoroughly washed before assembly. It is easy to assemble; the equipment can be built by anyone.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
Sustainable energy provides new opportunities for growth. It enables businesses to grow, generates jobs, creates new markets and children can extend study hours. It’s an investment in our collective future.

Other information that you would like to share with the Miss Earth Management:
Preserving the environment using the sustainable energy and promoting debates campaigns to make people aware of using the natural sources without destroying our splendid planet, keeping it cleaner, healthier and more green.

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* See also Miss Earth 2012 Special Coverage

Lorraine Ditsebe - Miss Earth Botswana 2012 Profile

Lorraine Ditsebe

Miss Earth Botswana 2012

BIO:
Age: 19
Height: 5'5"
Weight: 118lbs.
Vital Stats: 32"-31"-36"
Hometown: Mochudi
Profession: Student

INTERVIEW:


What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
Establishment of recycling programs in towns and villages. My aim is to encourage communities members to start recycling programs and work hand in hand with local existing organizations that promote environmental conservation together with communities to create and build a Botswana environment and that of her other trading partners. Due to lack of encompassing environmental recycling center where the recyclable can be temporarily stored before segregated. Workshops policy set up in towns to distribute tourism That’s how much towns. Programs will beto address trade and services e.g.containers in schools and I love Botswana will initially focus on children then women’s groups and communities. All plastic metal and glass collected will be sold, thus gaining revenue to fund and maintain the recycling center. My project will ensure that the communities will continue to be models of sustainable development.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
What I admire about my country is that it is a moralized nation. We have our own principles some being respect “botho” that we set as our vision for 2016 pillars which make it a prosperous and productive and innovative nation. It is a peaceful country and tolerant to all humankind regardless of race, language, tradition. It is a unique country and It has some unique features like the Okavango delta. This is the only inland delta in the world and this delta is not only unique but contributes to the beauty of Botswana together with the wildlife surrounding the delta which include wild animals which drink from the Delta. Botswana is rich in minerals; it is leading worldwide in diamond exportation. Exporting to rich countries like the British countries. Some of our pillars in vision 2016 is that we should be an educated nation and so the Government is ensuring that it does happen by providing students with free education and sponsorship at tertiary level. Interesting is that sustainable use of energy relate to the economy, it is realized that there is already lack of coordinated approach to environmental issues in all national level borders. Agricultural and forestry products should not impact the environment, they should not cause damage to the Botswana environment and that of her other trading partners due to lack of encompassing environmental policy to address trade and services e.g. tourism. That’s how much I love Botswana.

Describe your childhood/growing years (8-13 years old)
My childhood has been one of the toughest but greatest moments of my life. I walked to school every morning with my friends. I would not say I come from a rich family. Sharing my lunch box and playing with my friends at school. I was among the best runners and represented my school, a good tr aditional dancer and a good singer in the school choir. School trips were always good times. I believed in excellence. And failure made me sad. I spent the holidays with my family at our lands taking care of our fields and domestic animal. Helping with house chores was part of my role as a child. As I grew up punishment was associated with wrong doing and rewards with doing right. Sundays were always time for church and that is where I learned who Christ is in me.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
From all the experiences I have been through, I have learned that not all things come that easily. Footprints on a certain moment are not marked by sitting down and doing nothing. I worked tirelessly, so hardworking and determination is the key to achieve one’s goal. There are hard times but going through them gave me strength and made me strong. I realized that I do not have to be financially rich but have a rich mind and rich soul and that the past do not define my future. I am also thankful for the discipline I got from parents because it led me to follow the right path. These childhood years helped me mingle with good old and new friends and made me more understanding of the different kinds of people and personalities, giving me a bubbly open minded aura and a personality that can easily deal with everyone.

What is your most memorable moment?
Winning Miss Earth Botswana 2012 made me realize how hard it was for me to achieve it being one of the greatest ambitions in life and being the best memory. It made me feel great and honored and gave me courage to keep going for what I believe in. These moments of my reign is a priceless opportunity and make me realize that hard work earns rewards. They made me believe that I can make a way where there is no road and leave a trail. What’s important now for me it is being the link between my dream and its reality.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
“Be green and clean” In relation to sustainable energy I believe that it is time to pay more importance to the usefulness of our surroundings especially all the reliable resources found in our environment I want to share the advocacy to extract, generate and consume all green energies for benefit of mankind and come up with a very influencing group or club that will compose of people who want to get involved in environmental protection and in it I will offer information and opportunities for activism and other important issues of the environment. Nature has its own natural way of recovering, meaning pollution could be eradicated. The emissions of the green house gases that are harmful not only to the environment but also to our health could be lessened.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
We should integrate sustainability into our critical measures of sustainability being environmental, social, and economic. Let’s share information about recycling and conservation with our friends, neighbours and co-workers, and take opportunities to encourage public officials to establish programs and policies that are good for the environment. Let’s remember that our confidence and pride is based on earth of which exists minerals, vegetation, wildlife and other natural resources that boasts of our national economies empowering our social lives.

Other information that you would like to share with the Miss Earth Management:
Let’s take an initiative to aliase or team up with existing local and international organizations that deals with issues related to the environment and sustainable use of energy, working well together with them by campaigning and educating the communities making them the ownership of the initiative. As a responsible citizen I am dedicated to promoting human health, natural resources and the global enviroment. I believe that with the constant and increasing delivery of environmental messages, national, international awareness will contribute to changes in attitude and actions of people.

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* See also Miss Earth 2012 Special Coverage

Zerina Sirbegovic - Miss Earth Bosnia & Herzegovina 2012 Profile

Zerina Sirbegovic

Miss Earth Bosnia and Herzegovina 2012

BIO:
Age: 21
Height: 5'6.5"
Weight: 114lbs.
Vital Stats: 35"-25"-35"
Hometown: Srebrenik

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
I believe that small steps can make immense change and bring prosperity to the habitants of our planet. My first target would be education, especially the education of younger generations. My plan is to develop a special program for children in schools, and that they have at least one class in a week where they could work out plans to make their surroundings and the environment around them to look beautiful and to keep it beautiful as mother nature had given it to us. The next step would be the media, and letting people know that children are aware and that they are doing something for our planet so everyone else should dedicate themselves to it. In that project, there would be posters that would include a lot of messages to save the planet, then programs like “Life Without Plastic Bags”, “Recycle”, “Your Own Light”, “ Sustainable Energy for All”, etc. I am really enthusiastic, and I truly hope that these steps would do to make our future brighter and affect a lot of people to become conscious of their well being on this planet.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a unique country which holds the beauty of three different cultures, three different religions, and three different traditions. Even though it possesses a lot of diversities, it can also be characterized as a country with the great spirit that combines those cultures into one. Many people describe this country as a small one, but most of them do not know that it hides a large history and enormous soul inside of itself. People are particularly related to their tradition, are very tolerant and respectful, so many who visit this country get impression that people are extremely kind and open to other people. Bosnian language is by its nature a “loud” language and many people find it interesting how we can always be so cheerful and ready to communicate. It makes me highly proud to be a part of such culture. Besides its kindness and their honest characters, this country is breath-taking when it comes to our possessions of natural beauty such as heavenly forests ( 50% of our country is covered by forests) , picturesque landscapes, mountain ranges, azure rivers, amazing lakes, and offers wild beauty and grandeur which can in full splendor just amaze everyone. Cultural monuments are a big part what makes this country so special. After all those years and influences of the civilization, culture, tradition and family still stayed the values which we cherish the most. I, personally, with great proud, can say that I am enormously happy and honored to be citizen of this country and a member of a family called Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Describe your childhood/growing years:
I grew up in a small town, almost a village, surrounded by my beloved family and true friends. The childhood that I had is very different from the ones that today’s children experience. It was age without computers, and without media influence. Main focus of my childhood was to play, to learn and to be happy while enjoying the life full of love. I was enamored of going to school, and being with my friends after school. I will never forget the gatherings we had in the back yard of the school. I played basketball from age 11 to age 14, but also attended a lot of extracurricular activities such as dancing and athletics. My family was not rich, and in my childhood I, primarily learned to value what I have, to respect other people and always to be grateful with what one possesses.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
I always get sad when I have to mention the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but I just cannot forget the consequences of war which also affected my childhood. As I am an optimist I always tend to see the good in some bad experiences. During my childhood, I have seen a hard life, experienced difficult consequences and in the end, all of that made me a strong person who knows what means laborious life, and a person who knows how to cherish life, to appreciate and respect people and who does not take anything for granted. I have learned that respect does not come by itself and that a person has to deserve it- a so called boomerang effect. According to that, I believe that Mother Earth cannot be patient with us for such a long time while watching us destroy what we have. In that way, we have to pay her back for everything and start acting as respectful habitants of this planet.

What is your most memorable moment?
“Nothing is ever really lost to us as long as we remember it.”- the quote that always keeps me strong and remembers me never to be lonely. As I am a family oriented person, my most memorable moment is when my brother got married. The reason why I chose that moment is because, on that day, we got the best gift that anyone could get and that is family. As I previously mentioned, my family lives in different countries across Europe, and they said that they cannot come to the wedding, but they came. So seeing them that day, made me realize who are the ones a person should treasure the most. That day gave me a valuable lesson which would follow me through the rest of my life and that is -no matter where those people you love are, it matters that they make a big part of who you are. Also a quote that follows all my memories- “The only real treasure is in your head. Memories are better than diamonds and nobody can steal them from you” (The Last Book in the Universe)

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
It is my opinion that the sooner we spur sustainable energy innovation, the better off we will be for the short and long term. Sustainability includes recognizing global warming and significantly reversing our contribution to it, as well as supporting energy produced in ways that have the least environmental impact. My primarily concern would be to focus on two highest potentials in my country and that is power of water and the use of bio mass. So, these resources must be tested in order that BiH becomes aware which are the most effective ones to invest in them. In my humble opinion, the priority should be given to the strength of our rivers. Two options that I find applicable are: Solar energy should be stimulated at the state level and on the local levels and that is priority on the small groups- families. Every house can be stimulated by the premiums when purchasing Solar units. This would reduce the general consumption and therefore, energy production and the construction of new housing projects are necessary incentives for the use of solar energy that could be used in public areas, like stairwells which we all use. Planned installation of the time counters could in certain areas reduce the current consumption up to 50%. The second, which in my opinion has great capacities in BiH, the use of bio mass and waste which would by combustion be turned to thermal energy for space heating or for creating motive power instead of petroleum products, of course, where this is possible. The reason why I chose these two natural resources is because I am certain that my country has a great potential but not enough interest when it comes to the government and realizing the projects. My biggest ambition would be to do something about it and at least to get people completely informed about this topic and when it becomes locally, then it has chances to make it globally. Small steps are what can make the biggest change.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
I would like that I have the power of the world and to make sustainable energy accessible to all, but putting our wishes aside, every person living on Mother Earth can by simple steps make some change. My tip to all would be that we all start being conscious and making ourselves responsible for what is happening to our planet and to realize what danger we are living in. To be concrete, altering the consciousness of the population in terms of ecology and the lack of energy can make significant changes that have long-term effectiveness. Primarily education, but for the younger generation, because they are the ones who hold the future of Mother Earth in their hands. Introducing ecology in school and important information about the dangers of global warming on our planet could serve as a good example to the society. Of course, the media as the seventh world power, is the most powerful influential group. Through television, print and the Internet people can raise consciousness and do something for our planet. Greenpeace organizations can serve as a perfect example. Our focus should be on what every individual can do. It might sound too simple, but riding a bicycle, “green buildings”, recycling, planting are just small paces towards a brighter future.

Other information that you would like to share with the Miss Earth Management:
I am a person who really loves this work and I enjoy following other beauty pageants so in that way I have to share with you a piece of information that I noticed during a few pageants I watched. I have followed the last world’s pageant Supranational for 2012 and what I found rather interesting is the fact that the girl who won achieved that win on the basis of politics and by lobbying the neighboring countries to the host. Likewise, for Miss World where the winner miraculously won the representative of the hosts, even though, in the public discussions and forums she was not a favorite. I have to emphasize and distinguish this beauty pageant from all the rest and say that all the winners of Miss Earth won by being the person with most complete personality and not because of some interest groups on the side. The purpose of this pageant is clear and noble and those are the main reasons why I joined this amazing project and I am glad, moreover, especially honored to be part of this great organization and the project Miss Earth.

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* See also Miss Earth 2012 Special Coverage

Dayana Dorado - Miss Earth Bolivia 2012 Profile

Dayana Dorado

Miss Earth Bolivia 2012

BIO:
Age: 18
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 119lbs.
Vital Stats: 35"-24"-35"
Hometown: Beni
Profession: Model

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
I want to promote the preservation of the forest and the species that we have in our national parks since my country doesn’t have the means to fight against the extinction of endangered species.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
I’m proud of the diversity of cultures that we possess; the beauty in the plants, animals, the different interesting weather, culture and traditions in the different parts of our country. I come from a part of the country which is very rich in nature still untapped by man and we have people that speak the language of mother nature and have high respect for her. I am also proud of our beautiful and scenic mountains and valleys.

Describe your childhood/growing years:
I grew up in Baures a town in Beni surrounded by a virgin forest and beautiful rivers where we used to swim with my family every afternoon. I was raised by my grandparents when my mother went to work in Spain. When they died I went to live with my mother to Santa Ana another town in Beni. I spent my beautiful childhood surrounded by nature. I loved climbing trees and playing with birds. I horse ride going to my uncle’s house and I milk the cows. I still do these things when I visit them to bond with my family.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
My grandparent taught me to be independent. They taught me values and the respect for mother nature. I learned how to continue my path with the love of God by my side. I discovered how fragile living things are and learned how to love them. I was born in a place with no pollution and I want to keep it that way.

What is your most memorable moment?
The moment I saw my mother again after so many years, it was both a frightening and happy moment, a mix of emotions. The moment I was invited to represent my department and my town was also very exciting. I felt very proud to carry the title and the name of my city.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
I want to preserve mother nature, so that it will still be available for future generations and they can have the opportunity to experience it as I did. I believe we must take care our home which provide us food and shelter and teach our children to protect and care for it as well.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
In Beni and Santa Cruz and my entire country, the winds are strong enough to create electricity which provides energy for little towns. I would like this technology to be available in my country.

Other information that you would like to share with the Miss Earth Management:
Baures is the capital of the famous chocolate of Bolivia. There are around 3000 islands planted with chocolate, which people collect for their livelihood. The town owns these islands and townspeople collect chocolate freely. The air is fresh and the trees are beautiful and we have ecological reserves. There are places where no man has set foot. There are some lakes surrounded by different animals living naturally and free. There you can find, tigers, tapiers and deer.

* Back to the Official List of Candidates
* See also Miss Earth 2012 Special Coverage

Jessel Lauriano - Miss Earth Belize 2012 Profile

Jessel Lauriano

Miss Earth Belize 2012

BIO:
Age: 24
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 124lbs.
Vital Stats: 36"-27"-38"
Hometown: Belize City
Profession: Assistant Carnival Commissioner
Notes: Competed in Miss World 2010

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
The environmental project I will create to promote the protection of Mother Earth would be to plant "sustainable trees" (Trees that have a higher rate of carbon sequestration) in the city/ cities. With the assistance of students through environmental clubs, and through Education, with the use of pamphlets and signs throughout the City, I would promote public awareness on the importance of trees and carbon sequestration. I would promote the importance of capturing and removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming and is emitted as a result of burning fossil fuels, an unsustainable energy source.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
Belize is an environmentalist dream. It has a wealth of recognized natural resources, such as an abundance of untouched freshwater resources, the second largest barrier reef system in the world with unique, one-of-a-kind natural features. For marine lovers, our unique atolls (Glover's Reef, Turneffe Islands, Lighthouse Reef), the great Blue Hole; "our signature dive spot," and hundreds of Cayes'. We have the World's largest Jaguar reserve and the only Zoo in the World with natural habitats for the animals. In addition, we have the highest waterfall in all of Central America, unspoiled mountains complimented by rivers, picturesque waterfalls, and cave systems, hosting the most beautiful flora and fauna. Belize also has the largest concentration of Mayan sites in the region. Thirty to forty percent of our land is under protected status and our country boasts a steady increase in environmental consciousness. Belizeans are amongst the warmest and friendliest people in the world and they truly are our greatest national treasure. I invite you to take a trip and explore mother nature's best kept secret, and see why I am proud to be a Belizean.

Describe your childhood/growing years:
At the tender age of five, I was adopted. My Mom had a devoted love for children even though she gave birth to none. She was a good mom who instills true values and morals; I grew up having a strong spiritual belief and remembered always being occupied and active especially during the summer months. Growing up I played softball, volleyball, won many races in track and field and had fun singing for Festival of the Arts where I represented my school well. My mom worked at the youth hostel, a home for juvenile with social issues, which was located in a rural district area of Belize. Each summer I had the opportunity to go with her to summer camps in the country side. As a child from an urban community, I developed appreciation for nature. Through the eyes of a child, I saw nothing but the beautiful arrays of birds, butterflies, wild flowers, animals and giant mountains. It was a magical transition from urban to rural lifestyles; simple things in life. But that was my yearly routine. Looking back, I now realize that those summers served as an annual therapeutic experience for me from the hustle and bustle of city life, to the tranquility I find in the country side, clearing the path for positive spiritual growth.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
I learned that the smallest act of kindness can make a big impact on someone's life. Like a great Tibetan Buddhism Monk said, "When we feel love and kindness towards others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it helps us also to develop inner happiness and peace. I still recall when I was ten years old, in a summer program for girls, we visited the Sister Cecelia's Home; a home for the elderly, to kee the elderly company and assist them in ways a child can. The fun filled experience I had in combing hairs, painting nails and applying make up to the elderly women, provided a lasting impact. They were so grateful for the company and attention we showed them. I left feeling like a little angel.

What is your most memorable moment?
As a child my favorite movie was "The Little Mermaid". At the age of fifteen I had the opportunity to go diving at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve in northern Belize and to have similar memoirs of a mermaid, even if only for a little while. Imagine being submerged 75ft under water where the rich array of the hues of the world below gave out an aura of a rainbow palace with each collection of corals. I was in perfect harmony with all the dazzling aquatic flora and fauna and most of all the many schools of fishes in all different colors, shapes and sizes. Unfortunately, as I was about to join the celebration, my breathing waned, vertigo came on, and I had to be immediately rescued. I assume that it was because the experience was overwhelming and evoked pure bliss. The moment that I, Jessel, became the Ariel of Belize, despite such misfortune, will never be forgotten.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
My advocacy is to promote recycling and sustainable energy- lobbying for government influence to support and promote recycling through subsidy incentives. I believe it is important to save energy through recycling because renewable resources saves money, uses less energy, and produces less contamination of the environment. Recycling is especially important for developing countries like Belize. Belize is a young growing nation and fortunately for us there is still time to make a difference, starting with our youths. When children learn the importance of recycling today, it will make a difference tomorrow. I chose these as my environmental advocacy because I believe it is the most effective way to bring awareness of the negative impact of waste which threatens our health, weather patterns and planetary ecosystems.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
A tip I can share to promote sustainable energy for all is to 'RETHINK'. Rethink before you make a decision that requires energy, whether it is to drive to the market or leave the television on when not watching. Before you purchase a new product for yourself or your home, ask yourself this question, "Do I need it or do I want it?" and if the answer is "I want it", then don't buy it and rethink what other action you can take that will help you to use energy sustainably, cause less pollution, as well as saving yourself a few dollars. For example, walk to the market instead, turn off the television and lights, unplug chargers when not in use, do not keep the water running while brushing your teeth, purchase only energy-saving appliances and light bulbs. Of all our energy needs, transportation accounts for more than fifty percent so carpooling as often as possible would make a big difference. These are only a few tips that are so easy to do but have a big effect on the environment.

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* See also Miss Earth 2012 Special Coverage

Madina Hamidi - Miss Earth Belgium 2012 Profile

Madina Hamidi

Miss Earth Belgium 2012

BIO:
Age: 25
Height: 5'6.5"
Weight: 112lbs.
Hometown: Antwerp
Profession: Actress and Model

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
I will co-operate with ecoFoundations R'energy For Life to visit a lot of schools in Belgium to promote Green Energy and inform our younger generation everything about it because I think that children are our future and they can make difference to make our Earth a better place for everyone.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
I am very proud of my country because it has many things that are famous worldwide. Belgium has got the most delicious chocolates in the world, best beer and best Belgian fries. On the other side Belgium is the Diamond Center of the world. Only in Belgium all diamonds get polished, checked and sent to other countries. Belgium is also called "Heart of Europe" because it plays a very important role for the EU since all the institutions are located here.

Describe your childhood/growing years:
I had a great youth between age 8 and 13. I was the best at school and all my teachers just loved me. They used to call me "A wonder Child". I lived in harmony with my sisters and brothers. Those are unforgettable days. My only biggest sorrow was that I didn't have my father with us. He died when I was 2 years old.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
Take every opportunity in life. And do everything possible to achieve your goals and never give up no matter what difficulties you might face.

What is your most memorable moment?
When I won the national pageant in Belgium. This was very special because I was the first foreign girl in 30 years who managed to make a big impression on 10 judges and to win 10 unanimous votes.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
I will try to promote "Green Energy" to all schools so they may have the right knowledge about it. I would try to convince them to choose sustainable energy. I think schools are important because children are our future.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
I wish that all people would be more aware about green energy and also stop the spoilage and think about our world, our earth.

* Back to the Official List of Candidates
* See also Miss Earth 2012 Special Coverage

Brooke Maria Sherman - Miss Earth Bahamas 2012 Profile

Brooke Maria Sherman

Miss Earth Bahamas 2012

BIO:
Age: 22
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 120lbs.
Vital Stats: 34"-26"-36"
Hometown: Freeport

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
Water conservation and efficient use of energy.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
The Bahamas is home to some of God's greatest creations; from the beautiful and talented people to the indigenous green life, the kaleidoscopic marine life and the uniqueness of our geographical make up with 700 islands and cays made out of limestone. This island nation continues to grow, expanding opportunities for education, placing a greater emphasis on our natural resources by lowering energy costs, and promoting subsistence farming and fishing initiatives. Our government continues to encourage the general population to become self sufficient by taking on these practices. Despite us being such a small country we are recognized globally for having the clearest waters in the world, holding five percent of the world's coral, being home to the world's first land and sea park on Exuma island, and also for having the world's third longest barrier reef. We are also known for being the place where God lives as we have the most churches in the world per capita. All of these facts in addition to my own experiences as a young woman growing up in this blessed country makes me extremely proud to be a Bahamian and represent all that my country stands for.

Describe your childhood/growing years:
Growing up in the Bahamas as the eldest of the two girls of my parents has been a rewarding experience. I was raised on the island of Grand Bahama of the Bahamas but spent most of my holidays on Bimini island and New Providence where my father's and mother's families are from respectively. Some of my childhood highlights had been playing with my cousins, going on trips to my family's farm of fruits, vegetables, goats, ducks, hogs, and especially the chickens, where there was never a dull moment. I always enjoyed singing and was one of the superstars in my family. I enjoyed school, my friends, extra-curricular activities such as: cheerleading, arts and crafts, choir; and sports which included track, basketball and tennis. During this time in my life I had one goal in mind, and that was to go to the Olympics and represent my country in track events.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
During my growing years I learned the importance of responsibility. For me it was not merely ensuring that my chores were done, but it was making sure that my younger sister was happy, entertained and focused on her school work. This learned responsibility awakened the leader in me and showed itself from the onset as I have served in many leadership positions throughout the years and still do. I also learned the importance of time management. I believe in not only being on time, but maximizing my opportunities, that is making the most out of every moment that I have because once it has passed I can never regain it. In life every moment counts so from beginning to end, I will give my all.

What is your most memorable moment?
My most memorable moment was at the beginning of this year, 2012, when I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Tourism Management from The College of the Bahamas. I made up my mind as far as I can recall that I would select a field of study that would allow me to learn more about my country, and would allow me to become a great nation builder. It was important for me to attain this goal from this particular institution as a sign of my loyalty to my country and its development. As a college student, I felt as though the moment of completion would never arrive. This moment of accomplishment will never be forgotten as it has been a dream of mine ever since I was a high school student to know how I could contribute to make my country a better place, socially, environmentally and economically. As tourism is my country's leading economic sector, choosing to study in this field was the best way that I could demonstrate my patriotism and passion for my country's growth and advancement. After studying and practicing tirelessly for four years, receiving this validation will remain a moment never to be forgotten.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
My environmental advocacy is "Creating a culture of water preservation and conservation". Coming from a country of many islands surrounded by water it's easy to take for granted the abundance of this resource, and as a result many persons do not see the necessity in using proper water conservation practices. According to UNESCO, the world today is facing a resource management problem, whereby because of the practices of citizens throughout the world, water resources have been mismanaged. I feel as though one of the first steps in correcting this problem is making the citizens in my country aware of the fact that the survival of this industry is reliant on the value that we place on it, which is reflective in our lifestyles and practices. When water is wasted through leakages or inefficient practices, the effects are not just economic but environmental as well. Air pollution increases as a result of more energy being used to energize water plants through burning fossil fuels. Citizens can in turn be affected by this health- wise and economically as their water bills would reflect their practices. The current abundance of this resource should not be taken for granted, because the effects of inefficient preservation and conservation practices affect entire communities.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
In an attempt to promote sustainable energy for all, one tip that I can share is; use energy efficient and energy saving appliances. One example is switching from using incandescent lighting to compact fluorescent lighting. If this is done, we can use less energy despite using our appliances for the same level of function. Many times we use appliances that use lots of electricity, resulting in more fossil fuels having to be burned, leading to increased rates of air and sea pollution. If we would pay closer attention to the types of appliances that we purchase and then limit their usage by turning them off when they are not needed, then we would begin to see a world that is being sustained by good practices, and energy being recycled with less damaging effects. What really matters is not the effects energy transfer, but how our environment and world changes for better or worse.

Other information that you would like to share with the Miss Earth Management:
I believe that I would be the best candidate for this title because I have a strong passion to see excellence embodied in the lives of all young women across the earth. As God's vessel from which life comes, we have an obligation to nurture and protect the earth and our fellow men. I believe that we should all be held accountable for the state of our earth today, socially as well as environmentally as we have the power to change it, but have not tapped into it as we should. As a contestant from one of the smallest countries in the world I know that the job ahead will not be a walk in the park, but it will take continued effort. With the help of God and the management team of this great organization, I know that I have all that it takes to make a great difference in the earth as I not only posses the physical beauty but the spiritual and intellectual splendor required of a true Miss Earth. I will remain more than ready and able to fulfill the applicable mandate in a spirit of excellence, with the same strength from the day I started.

* Back to the Official List of Candidates
* See also Miss Earth 2012 Special Coverage

Sandra Seidl - Miss Earth Austria 2012 Profile

Sandra Seidl

Miss Earth Austria 2012

BIO:
Age: 24
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 107lbs.
Vital Stats: 34"-23"-35"
Hometown: Vienna
Profession: Dermatology Operation Assistant

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
My opinion, to define the future environment through a strong social network and social projects. To strengthen this social network and I have to push forward projects actively supports the following children. The project "The Red Nose" is a team of clowns, which embellish the day difficult sickening children and playful at the same time take the parents' concerns and fears. Another project deals with homeless and abused children and their mothers. We are all committed to improve our surroundings with little acts to keep the social network and to maintain the environment.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
Austrian history has always been a part of European history. As a former Empire and Kingdom traditions, customs and cultures are maintained. I'm proud to be an Austrian, because these values were taught to me. My country is famous for its mountains, forests and lakes. Our traditional culinary cuisine and our wine, is known around the globe. Austria has an excellent social networking and has been a pioneer on renewable energy / water and wind power. The country Austria has many exciting and interesting aspects and because of this I would be very pleased to welcome you in Austria.

Describe your childhood/growing years:
My childhood made me the that. Now I'm fun-loving, friendly and committed purposefully ambitious My parents put a lot of emphasis to bring me up with love, trust and values. This period will be with me hopefully always on my mind, to find in tough times the way back to my roots.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
My childhood taught me, above all, to appreciate and respect others. Regardless of the culture, religion, race, color or social environment, we are all equal and have to ask all the same right to live on this earth.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
The key words of our present society, economy and environment are energy efficiency and sustainability of resources. These issues are not only trendy but tags have been year producers living values. In order to keep these values, it is my personal goal to prepare future generations in the form of children / environmental projects and environmental education for the challenges ahead in environmental matters. (Waste separation, recycling, renewable energy, etc.) I am convinced that everyone can support our planet earth with small steps, because together we are strong ("YES, we can.

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* See also Miss Earth 2012 Special Coverage

Jenna Seymour - Miss Earth Australia 2012 Profile

Jenna Seymour

Miss Earth Australia 2012

BIO:
Age: 21
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 125lbs.
Vital Stats: 33"-26"-34"
Hometown: Glenmore Park
Profession: Teacher

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
As an ambassador for the environment, I endeavor to raise awareness of major issues such as global warming through education programs for our youth. I strongly believe that educating our youngest generation will aid them in understanding what impact our environmental issues, have on the future of our mother earth and what we can do to ensure living in a sustainable and environmental friendly world. Teaching them simple things such as planting trees to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere, choosing alternatives to transportation such as walking, bike riding or carpooling, using energy efficient appliances, and implementing the slogan “reduce, reuse, recycle” which all have an enormous impact on the effects of global warming. Although we are too late to find a cure we are never too late to reduce its effects. I am currently working at Bonnyrigg high school where I hope to introduce minor education programs that are designed to teach students what they can do everyday individually to help protect our mother earth and keep her from deteriorating. My goal is to implement such programs in other schools throughout the country.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
I am proud to be representing my country Australia mainly due to our multiculturalism and belief systems. Australian society today made us a strong nation composed of great diverse nations. Multiculturalism is the act of advocating or encouraging integration of people of different countries, ethnic groups and religion into society. It is the philosophy that underlies the government’s multicultural policy and programs. It recognizes, accepts, respects and celebrates our cultural diversity. Throughout Australia today there are people from a staggering range of over two hundred countries. I feel that within Australia today everyone has benefited in one way or another from the migration of people into Australia. Despite what was originally thought about foreigners and migrants in earlier times, a lot has changed and most Australians as a whole are proud of their people and country. It is a nation that many people from around the world call home. Australian also has developed and implemented environmental management strategies with the help of different organizations that target various issues that are posing an influence on our nation and our world. Organizations such as Landeare Australia have been established to harmesses indivuduals and groups under the ethic of earing for the land since it had its genesis in initiatives to improve agricultural productivity through sustainable land managements. The movement has grown from this to a broader focus on sustainable managements of all of Australia’s natural resource assets and now encompasses individuals and group across the whole landscape from coastal to urban and remote areas of Australia. With our country developing such initiatives we are taking a step forward in making our world a sustainable and environmentally aware place.

Describe your childhood/growing years:
I have grown up in a close and supportive environment, where the importance of family has always been valued. We would often be going on family holidays with my grandparents, bonding with each other with love and support. I was always very active, and most of my nights were spent at either dancing or involving physical culture. Looking back today I have to say I have most supportive parents. Wherever I needed to go or whatever I needed they would provide me, wanting to give me the best shot at life and for that I couldn’t thank them enough. I was also very academic, making time for my studies and attending extra classes on weekends to enrich myself with further knowledge. I always enjoyed what I did, there wasn’t an opportunity I didn’t take and that has shaped me into the person I am today.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
One of the biggest life lessons I learned during my growing years was if you are committed you see it through no matter what. My mother had always taught me that if we start something or make a commitment to someone then we should always honor it. This also taught me a sense of responsibility as I gained an understanding of my actions, accepting the consequences that come from them and accepting that what you do impacts those around you. I also learned the power of positivity. A quote has stuck with me, and that is “whatever the mind perceives you can achieve”. This helped to show me that with a positive mindset anything is possible, and although we go through periods of hardship and trials we will always come out the other side if our mind is clear and positive.

What is your most memorable moment?
One of my most memorable moments would be going for walks on the mountain with my Pop. Travelling to the central coast was always something special; it meant that we were spending time with two of our most loved people in the world, my grandparents. We would often set out on adventures, walking through Kineumber mountain, which we now call Poppy’s mountain. We would often take empty Milo tins so we could fill them with the native gumnuts we collected on the way. I would echo my pop’s voice when he sings along to his favorite made up songs. He would often point out different trees and give us a brief history of their origin. More often than not, we would come back with multiple cuts up our legs and dirty clothes of which I am sure my mother enjoyed cleaning. What made it so special was that what once was a brief walking adventure turned into a tradition, a memory that has and will last forever.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
My environmental advocacy is educating our youth in understanding the importance of preserving and conserving our environment today as we know it. I strongly believe that by educating our younger generations, who are ultimately our future, we are ensuring that the needs for the protection of our mother earth is being heard and answered. If our youth are knowledgeable in terms of major environmental issues which our earth is facing, we can nurture their dedication to the preservation and conservation of the environment so that they may too be able to enjoy the beauty of our world. Such an understanding means that not only will our youth recognize environmental issues but also be able to act on them in a positive manner to ensure our world stays as it should in years to come. It is time we gave back to our mother Earth, for she provides for us each day.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
We can all use energy more efficiently. This means acknowledging that we can make a difference at an individual level, taking the steps to avoid wasting energy, and finally being smarter in using energy. My biggest tip would be looking at how we use energy in our own homes and working out ways in making energy work more for us while using less energy. By doing the little things such as switching to energy efficient appliances, turning off appliances if not being used, using renewable energy resources such as solar heating, flushing economically and installing water saving shower heads we are ultimately making a difference in how we use energy and turning to more efficient energy usage practices. We all have the power to make a difference, big and small, and by recognizing how important our actions are on the sustainability of mother Earth we can start to change our environmental footprint.

Other information that you would like to share with the Miss Earth Management:
I am a motivated person who is always willing to take up a challenge. Entering Miss Earth has been an experience I will never forget as I have gained so much. Being able to give a voice to our environment has given me the opportunity to make my mark on protecting the future of our earth and sharing its importance with those around me.

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* See also Miss Earth 2012 Special Coverage

Tatiana Maria Bischof - Miss Earth Argentina 2012 Profile

Tatiana Maria Bischof

Miss Earth Argentina 2012

BIO:
Age: 18
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 132lbs.
Vital Stats: 35"-26"-38"
Hometown: Resistencia
Profession: Student

INTERVIEW:

What environmental project will you create to promote the protection of Mother Earth and why?
El proyecto que propongo consiste en promover la concientización paulatina en los distintos grupos sociales (niños, jóvenes y adultos) acerca de las problemáticas ambientales tanto locales, nacionales como internacionales que ponen en peligro a Nuestra Madre Tierra. Porque se observa la desinformación, la ignorancia e indiferencia de la mayoría de los actores sociales, especialmente de los adultos para comprometerse a actuar en defensa del medio ambiente.

What makes you proud of your country and what can you promote about it?
Me siento orgullosa del País que represento porque es un pedazo de suelo que le abrió los brazos a muchísimas per_ sonas de distintas nacionalidades que buscaban refugio después de la guerra dando así lugar a una sociedad heterogé_ nea conformada por distintas culturas que aprendieron a convivir. Mi País, Argentina, es como una “ reserva cultural del Planeta”. Vivimos aquí desde pueblos originarios hasta personas que, como yo, tienen en su sangre mezcla de va_ rias nacionalidades (aborigen, español e italiano por parte de mi madre; alemán y húngaro por parte de mi padre. Esta convivencia nos hizo más tolerantes para aceptar y respetar la diversidad cultural preparándonos para hacer un mundo sin fronteras.

Describe your childhood/growing years:
My childhood was pretty funny. I had lots of friends and a beautiful family. I was always very independent, outgoing and dynamic. I participated in many activities and events and looked at them as part of a game but also I knew these prepared me for my future. I went to school were children practiced volleyball, hockey and different dances. I traveled a lot. I always had the support of my parents, family, neighbors and friends.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood/growing years?
In my childhood, I learned that life and the world is beautiful, that nothing is achieved without effort, that you need to learn to respect if you want to be respected, that you have to fall many times to learn. The way is paved with many stones and thorns but if you believe in God and put your projects in His hands, everything becomes easier. That error is the principle of learning and that no dream is impossible. You just have to keep your focus on your work most importantly and your dreams will become a reality.

What is your most memorable moment?
My most memorable moments were my first communion in the Catholic Church, the celebration of my 15th birthday, the yielding exams each year to become Professor Folkdance Argentinas and the day that I had fully accepted myself. Also the Sundays in the field with family, game projects with group of friends from my neighborhood, the beginning of high school and trips with the volleyball team and the dance group not to mention the vacation trips with my family to different the provinces of my country and abroad, knowing so many people, and learning different cultures.

What is your environmental advocacy and why did you choose it?
Defending the environment is my personal commitment and social responsibility. Promoting to reduce the consumption of water, electricity and fuel in the households as well as to recycle and reuse waste to reduce the pollution of soil and air. I believe one should not merely state one’s environmental advocacy and awareness but live out their advocacies as well.

What tip can you share to promote sustainable energy for all?
The sun shines for everyone. Seize its energy so we can all live better and help our Mother Earth survive.

Other information that you would like to share with the Miss Earth Management:
I believe all our personal actions to help care for the environment is very valuable, but I am also aware that there are times when urgent actions are not carried out sooner and this habit must stop. We should form active networks that involve us all.

* Back to the Official List of Candidates
* See also Miss Earth 2012 Special Coverage