PHOTO Beautiful Miss Croatia spoke about a problem plaguing the whole world: 'It is part of our identity'

Ema Helena Vičar, Croatia’s representative in the Miss World 2023 competition, has drawn international attention during her participation in the pageant held in Vietnam. Currently based in Nha Trang, where the finals will take place on September 5, Vičar has used her platform to highlight a pressing environmental issue affecting marine ecosystems worldwide. During the Head to Head Challenge segment of the competition, she spoke about abandoned fishing nets, often referred to as ghost nets, that remain submerged in the ocean for years, continuing to trap marine life and damage delicate underwater environments. The Miss World competition, marking its 75th anniversary, brings together 120 contestants from around the world. The event includes multiple challenges designed to test the participants' communication skills, talents, physical fitness, and commitment to social causes. Among these, the Beauty with a Purpose category allows contestants to present initiatives aimed at creating positive change. Vičar chose to focus on her project titled "Blue Planet: A Purpose for Life," which addresses the issue of ghost nets in the Adriatic Sea and beyond. Vičar emphasized how the Mediterranean Sea is integral to Croatian identity, history, lifestyle, economy, and tourism. Growing up along the coast, she became acutely aware of the sea's significance and the threats posed by pollution. Her efforts have included beach clean-ups, educational campaigns, and community projects aimed at raising awareness about environmental issues. As an ambassador for the initiative "For a Better Us," she has actively promoted ecological responsibility among the public, particularly encouraging youth engagement. During her presentation in Vietnam, Vičar highlighted the hidden danger of ghost nets, explaining how they continue to entangle marine animals long after being discarded. She noted that while visible waste on beaches is often addressed, the threat beneath the surface remains largely overlooked. This issue affects not just Croatia but all coastal regions globally, underscoring the need for collective action to protect marine biodiversity. The Miss World competition continues with various challenges leading up to the grand finale. Contestants participate in categories such as Top Model, Sports Challenge, Talent, and Multimedia, each offering opportunities to showcase different aspects of their personalities and abilities. Winning certain challenges can provide direct pathways to the final stages of the competition. Last year’s winners of specific challenges secured positions within the Top 40 finalists. As the competition progresses, Vičar’s performance has garnered media interest, with representatives from numerous media organizations attending her presentations. Her message about the importance of protecting the oceans resonates with both local and international audiences. The final week of the competition will culminate in the Grand Finale on September 5, which will be broadcast globally and attended by over 20,000 spectators live. Throughout the competition, contestants are evaluated not only on their appearance but also on their ability to communicate effectively, demonstrate talent, and show dedication to social causes. Vičar’s focus on environmental protection aligns with the broader mission of the Miss World organization to promote positive change through its platform. Her advocacy highlights the intersection of beauty pageantry and social responsibility, emphasizing that the role of a modern beauty queen extends beyond aesthetics to include meaningful contributions to society. The competition in Nha Trang serves as a global stage for contestants to showcase their individuality and commitment to various causes. With the final days approaching, the spotlight remains on the candidates as they prepare for the culmination of their journey. The outcome of the competition will determine whether Vičar and other contenders secure positions within the Top 40, setting the stage for potential future achievements in the realm of international beauty pageants.