Go-getting the attitude
Fresh out of high school, I was wondering how to spend my holidays productively when I saw an advertisement calling for Miss Teen Nepal 2005 applicants. I knew what to do.
But did I have what it takes? I looked in the mirror and made a list of qualities I thought a Miss Teen Nepal should have. Showbiz? No experience. Catwalk? I didn't even know how to walk in high-heels, forget catwalk. I didn't even own a pair, come to think of it. All I had were a pair of well-worn sneakers and tired tennis shoes.
I've always been a sporty type of person who never gave a hoot about fashion. But this contest, I felt it in my bones, was not to be missed. So what if a million zits stared back from my reflection or if my catwalking abilities needed nine lives? I was ready.
My family gave an encouraging 'go ahead' signal and then there was no stopping me. All the contestants were competitive yet supportive. I hadn't expected to survive the finals but when I was crowned first runner-up, I was speechless. It was overwhelming to have my friends and family come up on stage to congratulate me.
I gained a lot from the contest: confidence, experience, oratory skills and yes, even catwalking with poise. Life has been exciting ever since, especially seeing my photos in newspapers and magazines. I felt special when a group of teenagers asked me for my autograph! I certainly encourage young Nepalis to follow their heart and be a go-getter. You never know, you might earn your 15 minutes of fame too. As for me, I'm heading out to United World College in Pune, with memories to last me a lifetime.
Shibani Pandey, First runner-up, Miss Teen Nepal
Turning point
"I got through, I got through!" I told my parents, dancing a little jig. I just couldn't help it you see, I had been selected among the top 20 contestants for Miss Teen Nepal.
On the first day of training, we had to show up at Dwarika's Hotel. There was an inaugural ceremony and speeches were made; all the time I felt like I wasn't really there. I should have been paying attention but I couldn't help fantasising about what might happen.
We made friends, learnt to walk in high heels and expanded our general knowledge. It was fun and hard work but we were so excited that we scarcely noticed. Sometimes, I would return home exhausted and fall asleep before my head hit the pillow. Here is a peek at my journal to give you an idea of what our days were like:
26 July, Tuesday
Had photo shoots from 7AM to 3PM, then modelling sessions and as if that wasn't enough, the TV people came in to film us. What a gruelling day, am I tired or am I tired!
Despite it all, I knew there was no other place in the world I'd rather be. The atmosphere we worked in was friendly and supportive. I had only just met the 19 other contestants but I felt like I had known them all my life. Even before the final contest, I had achieved more than expected.
Before we knew it, we were standing on stage, hearts thumping, waiting for the final announcement on the night of the contest. When my name was called out as second runner-up, I was delirious. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for all those who had made it possible—my parents, relatives, Sneha (my soul sister, confidante and best friend), the organisers who gave us the chance to prove ourselves, and all who those helped groom us.
Life now is busier and I'm loving every moment. In a way, all 20 of us were winners. Someone asked me recently, "Don't you feel bad about losing the crown?" I smiled and replied, "I did win. For you, it might not seem much but for me, it's more than enough."
Sonam Wangmo Sherpa, Second runner-up, Miss Teen Nepal
