The 12 finalists [from top L to R]: Nizzal Rodrigues, Trisha Mascarenhas, Winona Rebello, Richell Travassos, Andrina Desousa, Rachael DSouza, Delicia Pinto, Luanna Fernandes, Natania Dias, Fay Fernandes, Erika DCosta and Leticia Colaco.
LONDON
Miss Goa International, a new international beauty pageant celebrating Goan talent, culture and achievement, is set to take place in the UK on September 6 at Radisson RED, Heathrow, London.
The event will feature 12 finalists representing the 12 talukas of Goa. Three finalists will be travelling from Goa, one will represent Canada, and the remaining finalists will come from the UK.
The pageant is being organised by filmmaker Milroy Goes, Vilber De Costa and Jason Diniz, through their entertainment and film-related companies. The organisers aim to create more than a traditional beauty competition by providing finalists with opportunities in film, media, fashion and brand partnerships.
The twelve finalists are Fay Fernandes, Andrina Desousa, Erika D’Costa, Leticia Colaco, Nizzal Rodrigues, Trisha Mascarenhas, Delicia Pinto, and Richell Travassos (finalists from the United Kingdom); Winona Rebello (finalist from Canada); and Natania Dias, Rachael Dsouza and Luanna Fernandes (finalists from Goa).
All 12 finalists will also be featured in a forthcoming calendar and a limited edition magazine being launched alongside the pageant.
During the finale, finalists will take part in three key rounds: Confidence and catwalk round, talent round, and question and answer round
A panel of three judges will select one winner and two runners-up. The winner will receive the title of Miss Goa International and become the face of the event promotional campaign.
The event will additionally recognise two women from Goa who have made exceptional achievements in their lives and careers. They will be honoured during the finale for their contribution and success.
"This is not just about winning a crown," said Milroy Goes. "We want to create opportunities for the finalists after the event, including potential film and brand opportunities. We want the winner and finalists to be remembered for their talent and achievements and to have a platform that can help them build their careers."
Vilber De Costa had earlier told The Goan that the ‘Miss Goa International UK’ aims to highlight Goan talent and beauty while opening pathways into the entertainment and creative industries.
“The pageant offers a dynamic platform for empowerment, visibility, and career development, connecting finalists to real opportunities in media, film, culture, and the arts while celebrating Goan heritage and diaspora. The platform also supports brand collaborations, film opportunities, and social initiatives through its partners,” Vilber had said.
Miss Goa International is also being filmed as a reality-style entertainment programme. Filming began during the finalists' initial meetings and interviews and will continue throughout the build-up to the grand finale, directed by Milroy Goes.
The organisers intend to present the finished programme to television and streaming channels.
Milroy Goes is a filmmaker, writer and director based in Los Angeles who regularly travels to London. He is also a voting member of the Emmy Awards.
Alongside the pageant, Goes is developing a new romantic comedy set entirely in England. The film has been inspired by life in the UK, including the country's distinctive humour and cultural character.
The organisers say the pageant is intended to establish a long-term platform for new faces in entertainment and to promote Goan culture internationally.
