MISS NI… Enniskillen finalists (from left): Miss Enniskillen, Catherine Moylan from Belfast, Miss Omagh, Meagan Daley from Enniskillen, Miss Jazzey’s, Tori Khan from Enniskillen and Miss Sally’s, Hayley Leonard from Enniskillen
OUR THREE local Miss Northern Ireland contestants admit they are very proud to be representing Fermanagh at the gala final next Monday night, May 12.
Tori Khan, Meagan Daley and Hayley Leonard will all fly the flag for the county at Belfast’s Europa Hotel, hoping to become the first local winner since Judith Grey (nee Wilson) back in 2008.
Speaking to the Herald all three admitted their excitement ahead of the final. They were put through their paces at an intense boot camp and are now ready to give it their all to win the extensive prize package and gain the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland at Miss World, being held this year in London.
“I was very nervous ahead of the final, but I think the bootcamp calmed us a bit more and prepared us for what’s going to be happening on the night,” explained South West College student and Miss Sallys heat winner Hayley.
Monea girl and Liverpool fashion student Meagan Daley, crowned Miss Omagh, is delighted to have such a strong local representation in the final.
“It is great to have the three Fermanagh girls and to have this local connection. Hearing from current Miss Northern Ireland Meagan Greene you realise it is the opportunity of a lifetime and I will take it in my stride.”
When asked why the county has three representatives this year Miss Enniskillen and Collegiate student Tori Khan is quick to highlight the wonderful people we have in the county.
“I think Fermanagh is full of bubbly and happy people, there is so much talent in Fermanagh, because the competition is so popular, we were lucky to have a heat in the beautiful place Jazzeys, who I am delighted to represent.”
Looking ahead to the final and all three girls have enjoyed the experience and learnt lessons that will last a lifetime.
“I have grown so much as a person already,” explained Meagan. “I will take everything I have learnt and take it into everyday life. I have got so much more confidence as a person and I have loved every single minute, I don’t want it to end.”
Meagan’s views were echoed by her two fellow contestants.
“It would be such an honour to represent Northern Ireland at Miss World,” remarked Hayley, “but regardless of the result I have learnt so much. The whole run up with different photoshoots has been great. I have done them before, but getting the knowledge of things like how to pose and the way you should act will hopefully further my career.”
“I am thoroughly enjoying the experience, apart from getting lost in Belfast,” joked Tori. “I am lucky enough to have been given this opportunity and I will hopefully learn so many new things and gain a lot of experience. I’m sure I will have many good memories and I’ve already made some amazing friends.”
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