Cherisha Chanda recently created history by becoming the first Indian woman to be crowned Miss Eco Teen 2022. The competition was held in Egypt and saw participants from 25 different countries. Cherisha cinched the crown by championing sustainable fashion in the competition. We are proud of this young achiever and she definitely deserves all the praise coming her way.
For those unversed, Miss Eco Teen is a global competition that opens the conversation about fashion and its unforgiving impact on mother Earth through pageantry. After her big win, Cherisha plans to promote sustainable fashion and use the valuable insights she got during her pageant days to encourage people to reuse and recycle clothing.
In a recent chat with the POPxo, Cherisha shared her pageant experience in Egypt and what it took to win the prestigious title. Edited excerpts below:
Can you speak about your experience at the Miss Eco Teen Egypt event?
My experience at the miss Eco teen international event held in Egypt was incredible. I loved being in Egypt. I saw many beautiful places and learned so much about their culture. This pageant gave me a platform to raise my voice and awareness for our environment. It gave me a chance to meet people from around the world. This has been one of the best experiences of my life.
Three memories from the pageant that you will always cherish?
First, I was not called out by my name, but by my country’s name. This was a proud moment. Second, I loved dancing with all the contestants worldwide and learning different dance forms. Last but not the least, I loved the beaches and the islands and the beautiful dresses. It was all fantastic and I will never forget these beautiful memories.
What were your thoughts while getting crowned as the Miss Eco Teen?
It was overwhelming and emotional at the same time. I was thrilled, excited, and incredibly proud that I had won the crown for my country. It was a proud moment for my parents as well.
How did you prepare for the pageant?
I prepared for the pageant by myself and with the support of my mom. I saw several videos of beauty queens on Instagram, and I used to hear their questions and answers. I trained for my walk from my earlier pageant, Miss Teen Diva.
For those unversed, could you explain what the Miss Eco Teen event is all about?
Miss Eco teen international event is a pageant focusing on environmental awareness and promoting care for Mother Earth. It aims to empower youth and create self-awareness and is a great platform to save our environment. This event brings together all the teen queens worldwide and allows them to showcase their talents and represent their country.
You promoted sustainable fashion at the event. How do you plan to take the conversation ahead now that you have won the title?
Now that I have won the title of Miss Eco Teen International, I want to promote sustainable fashion further. I picked many valuable ideas during the pageant. I want to use these ideas to save our environment and to educate the generation ahead.
What persuaded you to get into pageantry?
On one fine day, when my friends and I were sitting together, we learned about the pageant and filled out the form for Miss Teen Diva. It has been my dream since I was a kid. I won my first crown in pre-nursery, and by God’s grace, I won India’s crown in Miss Teen Diva last year, and now I have won Miss Eco Teen International.
Can you share some tips for those considering a career in pageantry?
Always believe in yourself and never give up. Once you walk the path, never look back until and unless you reach your goal. Always think positive, work hard, and leave the rest to god. This is what I did as well.
What’s next?
Next is my journey to fly high and keep making my country proud so that every citizen of my country raises the Indian flag high with pride in every field.
Here’s wishing Cherisha lots lof luck in all her future endeavours. Girl, you made us proud!
Featured Image Courtesy: Cherisha Chanda
