New York: Nandita Dasrath won the title of "The Community's Queen" on Sunday when she participated in the Community's Queen Pageant. The twenty-eight-year-old Dasrath is a New York-based Guyanese.

Speaking with reporters immediately after the Community's Queen Pageant, the brilliant Dasrath said that winning the title was not easy. A very emotional Dasrath said that she was happy that she made Guyana proud competing against six other contestants from around the world including India, Trinidad, Haiti and Italy.

"The competition was stiff and posed a real challenge; I didn't give up. I am truly honoured to win the title as Community's Queen," the newly-crowned queen told.

When asked what she intended to do during her reign, the classical dancer said, "I am expected to be a role model for our young women. I plan to do this by working closely with Fashions By Renu, Guyana Chunes Radio, and the Save Abee Foundation to organise and participate in a variety of fundraisers."

She said her goal was not to wear a crown for fame but to help mould young women in society. The pageant focused on empowering young women from various countries and communities.

There were four segments in the pageant: cultural wear, business attire, evening gown and a question-and-answer.

The swimsuit segment was removed, Dasrath said, to help the community understand that young women should not be seen as eye candy but rather be appreciated for their minds and intellect.

The pageant was organised by Fashions By Renu Production, the dominant force in New York's Indo-Caribbean community. Over the years, it has used its business to assist and help young people garner confidence in themselves through various activities.

(The report was first published in guyanatimesgy.com)