Ysabel still a winner for Trinis

Miss World TT, Ysabel Bisnath, did not make it into the top 30 of the 2018 Miss World pageant in Sanya, China yesterday, but many Trinis still believe she is a winner.

Barbados and Jamaica made it into the top 30 with Jamaica’s Kadijah Robinson getting into the top five and winning Miss World Continental for the Caribbean. Miss Mexico Vanessa Ponce de Leon won the Miss World crown.

The social media platform, Facebook, was abuzz yesterday with both congratulations and disappointment for Bisnath.

On the international Miss World Facebook page many expressed their ire that Bisnath was not chosen for the top 20. They questioned the integrity of the competition and the judges, saying Bisnath was cheated.

Some of the less aggressive supporters asked for an explanation. Jaglal Tricia wrote, “Miss Trinidad and Tobago is extremely popular. Please Miss World explain your decision. I guess her educational backgrounds, her caring personality and charm were too much... Ysabel placed in the multimedia, BWAP categories and has higher votes on the Miss World website. How she was blindsided?”

On the official Miss World TT page, however, many expressed their pride in her performance and representation of the country. One woman said Bisnath was “amazing throughout the competition,” hoped she would she treated like a queen when she returned to TT, and would continue as one of the country’s ambassadors.

Dev Pooma wrote, “Congratulations Miss TnT. You are a world class ambassador who represented flawlessly. Blessings for continued prosperity in every sphere of your life. You will always be part of our Miss World Trinidad and Tobago Legacy!”

In a final post on her Miss World page, Friday, Bisnath wrote, "In these last few moments, I bow my head in prayer, joining my country and the many who have supported me in humble gratitude and deep contemplation. I give thanks to the Divine One for the grace to carry the national pride of Trinidad and Tobago in my heart. As I prepare to step on to the world stage, may your love and presence be with me and my sister delegates. I commend all that I am all that I could be into your sacred hands. Bless and reward our efforts today."

Franchise-holder Brian Gopaul thanked everyone for the love and support. ‘We can all come together as one and make our country better,” Gopaul said.