What is your educational background and why did you choose that field? Where would you like to see yourself in the future?

I obtained my English degree at the Hoge school van Rotterdam & Omstreken in the Netherlands. I chose English as a field of study because I was always very proficient in the subject. After completing this course of study I decided to get a master's degree in educational science and technology. I would like to establish a school for people who want to learn English.

How do you plan to represent the island of St. Maarten/St. Martin in Cyprus?

Simply put, to the best of my abilities. I will represent my island paradise and its people with pride and honor. I will relish every opportunity to talk about this unique, half-French, half-Dutch island, and the smallest in the world to hold such a distinction. I will touch on the fact that both sides have lived in peace for more than 350 years and we still continue to accept foreigners into our home. We are the melting pot of the Caribbean and are very proud of that fact.

What do you feel makes you different from all the other contestants that you will be meeting at the competition?

Everyone is unique in her own way. We each have our own personalities, happy stories as well as horror stories. I'm a person who likes to meet other people and learn about different cultures. I am confident, excited, strong willed and proud to represent my home.

Who is your biggest role model and why? Do you feel that you are a role model for local young people? What is your idea of leadership?

My grandmother who raised 10 kids and is a strong woman. I've always admired her for her strength. It is important that young people have examples, positive examples. In this world of the Internet, gaming systems and cable TV, positive role models are getting lost in the mix. I feel that me being a teacher might inspire others to follow suit and pursue a career in teaching. In my young life I've described leadership as follows: The manager administers; the leader innovates. The manager maintains; the leader develops. The manager relies on systems; the leader relies in people. The manager counts on control; the leader counts on trust. The manager does things right; the leader does the right thing.

What is the true meaning of a competition like the Miss Universe pageant?

The Miss Universe Pageant is more than just young women "strutting their stuff" so to speak. I see my participation in the pageant as a good promotion for the island as well as an exciting learning experience. I would hope that all girls are proud of the fact that they are truly ambassadors for their respective countries. To me the true meaning of a pageant like this is young women proudly representing their home nations and inviting others to pay a visit.

If you had a message that you could send our readers in Washington, D.C., what would you like to tell them?

Come visit St.Maarten. The island is delightfully Dutch and fantastically French -- a little European and a whole lot of Caribbean. I would also want to ask your readers to show their support for all of the girls who will compete in the Miss Universe Pageant. We are all working very hard. I hope one of these days I will be able to meet a few of D.C.'s finest residents right here on my island paradise, St.Maarten/St.Martin.