Exotic Dominique

Dominique won the prize trip to Africa after copping the Miss Diva Super Ten title on June 5 at the Cascadia Hotel. Her presentation of a self-made kite paper skirt in the creative impact category, her winsome personality and attractive physique were enough to obtain the judges’ favour.

Miss Diva Super Ten was hosted by Carivog International TT Creative Talent Extravaganza. The event was open to young female models with a height of 5’8" and over who were judged in the categories of intelligence, swim suit and creative impact. According to pageant co-ordinator Sheanna Alleyne, the competition "brought together a combination of elements of creativity, encompassing all aspects of our country’s culture as well as ensuring people of different heights and sizes are represented."

Dominique is 22 years old and resides in St Augustine. While at her alma mater, St George’s College, she signed with Coco-Velvet modelling agency and during that time, appeared in several newspaper and television commercials. She is currently engaged in promotional campaigns for local beverages.

Dominique revealed that she had grown weary and despondent after participating in several model searches. She said, "It’s the basic designers exploiting models. Either they say you’re not what they want or it’s one type of group. They make you lose your zeal. So I entered (Miss Diva) saying this is my last chance. And now, I’m still in shock!" She said the offer of a prize trip was the prime incentive for entering Miss Diva.

Following her recent win, Dominique halted her flight attendant course at Sital since she decided that the timing was inappropriate. On Friday she left for England where she will undergo further training in modelling and etiquette with Carivog’s London bureau.

Dominique described herself as "one of the most humble people in Trinidad and Tobago." She said that while the term "diva" connotes someone who is pompous and impersonal, her personality was the exact opposite.

She acknowledged personal flaws and pointed to the "tomboy" cuts and bruises on her knee, obtained in childhood. Being fashionably elegant was not always on her agenda as she said the typical denims were her customary style of dress. "I think I’m exotic. You know there is outstandingly pretty, exotic, and beautiful. I’m exotic."

Dominique held no delusions about the world of modelling and advised young models to rethink making modelling a career. "When you reach the ages 25 and 26 that’s it. They see you as old, unless you maintain your health and keep up yourself. Modelling is not glam, glam all the time. It’s hard work." She recalled having to shed a few pounds to fit the criteria of the modelling world.