IT HAD been 10 years since a heat for Miss Northern Ireland was held in Enniskillen, but on Thursday night Jazzey’s played host to a bevy of beauties, with contestants hoping to emulate previous winners Kirsty Stewart and Judith Grey.
Enniskillen Collegiate Student Tori Khan was the local winner on the night, crowned Miss Jazzeys, while Belfast student Catherine Moylan was named Miss Enniskillen. Both now move on to the grand final on May 12 in the Europa Hotel, Belfast.
Eighteen-year-old Tori admitted her initial apprehension about taking part in the Miss Northern Ireland heat, having never done any real modelling work in the past.
“I’d never gave it serious consideration until I met Rosie Boyle, who was helping to organise the heat in Jazzey’s. She really helped promote and sell the whole concept of the competition which increased my interest. That together with the support and encouragement of my friends and family persuaded me to give it a shot.
“It was my first ever experience doing anything like this before, and while I was very nervous, I was really lucky to have my close friend Olivia Skuce participate with me. The thought of walking down the runway was not one I was looking forward to, however, the organisers and the rest of the contestants were so friendly and supportive. We had a really good time and the other girls were lovely.”
Being crowned ‘Miss Jazzeys’ was never something Tori had contemplated and she admitted the shock when her name was announced.
“With so many beautiful contestants I was just so delighted to reach the last eight, but whenever they announced that I was named Miss Jazzeys and therefore through to the final I was absolutely stunned.”
Tori is indebted to the support of her family and friends and now moves on to the Miss Northern Ireland Final, where she will be looking to become the first local winner since Judith Grey (nee Wilson) in 2008.
“I don’t think it has fully sunk in yet that I am representing my county in the final. I’m obviously over the moon and will do my very best to promote Fermanagh and Jazzeys.
“I am certainly nervous, but also really excited about taking part in the Miss Northern Ireland final in the Europa. I think this will be an a tremendous experience and an amazing opportunity.”
As for the future, education remains at the forefront of Tori’s mind, with modelling very much an after thought.
“I have had an amazing time at the Collegiate and I know it will be a sad occasion when I have to leave the school. I hope to continue studying and eventually work in early years education.
“I have never considered modelling as a career path to date.”
Meanwhile, freelance model Catherine Moylan expressed her pride at representing Enniskillen in the final.
“When I was younger I used to travel down and play camogie in Enniskillen, it’s a beautiful place and always reminds me of my childhood, so I’m so happy and proud to be Miss Enniskillen as I have lots of good memories there and will hopefully make many more.”
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