Malta’s recently-elected Miss World Malta, Donna Borg Leyland, was treated to a farewell pool party at Aqua Lido accompanied by family and friends and the organisers and licence-holders of Miss World Jersey Ltd, Sue Rossi and Claudia Calleja, before leaving for the Miss World finals in Bali, Indonesia.

Maltese fashion designer Lara Spiteri, together with the Gozo Centre for Arts & Crafts, presented a hand-made Gozitan lace dress with a beautiful design sponsored by John C. Vella Creative Ltd for Donna to wear in Bali. All the material was sponsored by Camilleri Paris Mode.

Donna was also presented with a national costume, consisting of the eight-pointed Maltese cross and also designed by Lara in collaboration with the Manoel Theatre that she will wear on the final night as she competes with 120 other contestants from all over the world.

Other events will be organised, including Beach Fashion, Sports and Fitness, a Talent Competition, Top Model and – the most important event – the Charity Event, for all the finalists to raise money in line with the slogan Beauty with a Purpose.

Donna will join other contestants on a tour of the island of Bali and Indonesia’s capital Jakarta. Pristine beaches, awe-inspiring temples and areas of outstanding natural beauty will host a record number of contestants in the Miss World contest, now in its 63rd year.

The final night will be held at the Sentul International Convention Centre, which can accommodate 11,000 guests. The event will be transmitted live and watched by 2.5 billion people.

Special thanks goes to Egypt Air, 202 Jewellery, Koko, Charles & Ron, Unique Taste and Golden Rose cosmetics for their help in sending Donna to the contest. Donna would like to thank all the sponsors for helping her and making it possible for her to participate.

Follow Donna’s progress during the next three weeks on her Facebook page.