18th Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International contest in China:

Vinu upbeat after world pageant

by Ganga Ratnayake

2012 has been a momentous year for her where she was crowned as Derana Veet Miss Sri Lanka 2012, became the Most Popular Contestant with an astounding 32,604 votes and even debuted as an actress. And in the very year, Vinu Udani Siriwardana headed to China to vie for the title of Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International. Despite her busy schedule she spared some time to share her inspiring success story with a lot of zest.

Vinu is the second child in her family and has a younger sister and an elder brother. Her mother is a teacher and father is a consultant at the RDA. She studied at Anula Vidyala, Nugegoda and has successfully passed G.C.E A/L, and now eagerly waiting to enter the university.

"I did a lot of extracurricular activities. I was the leader of the eastern band and served as a senior and junior prefect. I was also into sports like table tennis, basketball and netball and won All Island prizes for Art in 2003 and Dancing in 2008."

When asked about what inspired her to enter the beauty and fashion industry Vinu said that she did so of her own volition. She said that she admires the current beauty industry which isn't focused solely on beauty, but emphasises on building individual personality in a more holistic approach.

She first entered Miss Sri Lanka beauty pageant in 2011 but due to the A/L examination she had to leave the contest even after coming amongst the 12 finalists. And with the encouragement of her family she vied for the Miss Sri Lanka title once again in 2012.

"I performed my best in this pageant where I showcased all my talents with total commitment. I had a lot of hopes when I entered the contest and was determined to bag the title. And after winning Miss Sri Lanka title, I ventured into modelling and Tele drama fields."

With the experience from taking part in two local pageants coupled with the three months workshop that boosted her confidence, Vinu left to China in mid November. She vied for

the 18th Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International contest held in Nanjing, China. Apart from the main title there were seven subsidiary titles, and Vinu aimed at the main title as well as two subsidiary titles namely - 'Best in Talent' and 'Best National Costume'.

While talking about her experience in China Vinu said, "I wasn't afraid or nervous at all, but I really hoped to win the titles. It was a big experience for me. I really enjoyed my stay and everyone was very nice and friendly. We took part in workshops and had daily fashion shows. We also joined in excursions in and around the city in addition to signature campaigns and photo shoots at various locations. And wherever we went there were people to warmly welcome us. I think it was a truly wonderful experience for me."

Vinu said she did her very best in her performance, where she made it to the top ten finalists in 'Best in Talent' and top 25 in 'Best National Costume' titles. In fact, it was a highly competitive pageant where 49 top beauties from 49 nations across the globe performed on a single stage.

"Before leaving the country we had a three months workshop where we received guidance, life skills and experience needed to face an international beauty pageant. I'm glad that I took part in Miss Sri Lanka pageant where I acquired a lot of experience. Whether we win a title or not, the experience of taking part in itself counts a lot. And I think I was lucky to gain both the experience and the national title and even represent my country in the international arena."

She spent 21 days in China together with other contestants where she felt every day was special and filled with unforgettable memories. Their schedule was packed and it was tiring, but they didn't forget to enjoy and make the most of their stay. Recollecting her memories she said that during the 'Best National Costume' title, the top 25 contestants were taken to another part of the city.

It was a five hour long journey and they had to take a train and a bus to get there. And these 25 were very lucky to meet the organisers before everyone else. She had tons of fun experiences and recalled how she even learned to use chopsticks to savour Chinese delicacies.

Vinu respectfully mentioned the encouragement received by President Mahinda Rajapaksa who launched her signature campaign as well as Minister Basil Rajapaksa who also signed and wished for her success before the tour.

She also mentioned all of her sponsors and supporters with sincere gratitude starting from the Tourist Board who was her main sponsor for the international pageant. DeranaTV has always backed her and made her a well known personality. Mr. Harry has guided, coordinated and supported her and Mrs. Pieris has helped her with training. In addition, Vinu's final dress and the national costume flaunting a novel theme were designed by Stefan from the Design Café.

She further thanked all her friends and relatives who supported her in many ways and said that she couldn't have made this far if not for her beloved family who has been her constant support. She also mentioned that it would be nice if the sponsors can further support individuals when they are representing their country abroad.

Presently Vinu is shooting for her role as Parami in Pipena Mal Tele drama telecasted on Derana TV, where she debuted as an actress. As for future commitments she has been invited to cast in two Tele dramas as well as in cinema, which also includes a Russian movie.

"I'm waiting to enter the university where I hope to continue my higher studies in the Management field. I would also like to pursue a degree in fashion designing. In addition, during my limited free time I hope to contribute for fashion shows as a model. I used to have an ambition of becoming a Bank Manager, but now that there are more avenues for me, I want to proceed as far as possible and see what's in store in the future."

Being an all rounder who never gives up, Vinu is determined to vie for more international titles through her future endeavours. And she advises the young who are aspiring to pursue a career in beauty industry to look beyond beauty and try to enhance one's life skills and talents.

She emphasises that knowledge matters even more, to win titles in beauty pageants as well as to overcome all hurdles in life and achieve your dreams.

Best National Costume event

Miss Talent contest