First Miss Universe Dutch Caribbean

From one of our reporters

Willemstad – The first-ever edition of Miss Universe Dutch Caribbean will take place on April 6. This preliminary round within Miss Universe offers women from Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, Saba, and Sint Eustatius who live in the Netherlands the opportunity to participate in this prestigious competition. Chanice Janssens (32) is one of the finalists.

Speaker and coach Chanice Janssens champions survivors of sexual violence

Janssens is a coach and speaker. The beauty with Curaçaoan roots is dedicated to improving mental health and breaking taboos, including domestic and sexual violence.

Two years ago, she came to Curaçao to prepare for a documentary about trauma from sexual violence. During this period, she was in close contact with organizations and individuals on the island who also shared her goal. She concluded her trip to Curaçao by participating in Carnival. This is how her journey to Miss Universe began.

As a coach and finalist for Miss Universe Dutch Caribbean, she offers free workshops tailored to specific needs to raise money for the Simavi foundation. This organization works with women and girls in Africa and Asia on local solutions for drinking water and toilets for everyone. In this way, Simavi fights for equality and climate justice.

The workshops are available on-site in the Netherlands or online until March 31. Also, if people vote via the link https://missuniversenetherlands.nl/product/dutch-caribbean-chanice/stemmen, a portion of the proceeds will go to the foundation. This can be done until April 5. Furthermore, donors will receive a discounted rate for the event in May with American motivator Stedman Graham in Rotterdam.

"The Purpose LifeChoice" is a transformational event where participants learn how to organize their lives based on who they are. Her goal is to continue this in Curaçao and make it an annual event. Janssens says her methods help people rediscover their inner strength. It stimulates personal and professional growth.

Caribbean roots

Miss Universe Dutch Caribbean gives candidates a larger platform to discuss taboo subjects. "Moreover, now is my time to shine and fulfill my childhood dreams," says the beauty. The beauty pageant is organized by Alexandra Ataliba, Miss Earth Curaçao 2018.

The candidates do not fully identify with their province and want to express and celebrate their roots. By including the Dutch Caribbean in the preliminary round of Miss Netherlands, Ataliba aims to highlight the unique beauty and rich culture of our islands within the Kingdom.

The winner will not only compete for the title of Miss Universe Netherlands but, if successful, will represent the Netherlands at the international Miss Universe pageant.

The finalists have been preparing for months for the big day on April 6. They are not only working on their personal growth and presentation but are also delving into their Caribbean identity and cultural expression. Through empowerment, coaching, and guidance from various disciplines, they are preparing to become powerful, confident, and inspiring representatives of the islands.