Goan Valentine Fernandes-the World’s Most Beautiful Lass from World’s Best Region in NZ

By
Alfie Dsouza, Team Mangalorean.
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Goan Valentine Fernandes-the World’s Most Beautiful Lass from World’s Best Region in NZ

“Beautiful Valentine from Beautiful Taranaki !”-that’s right! Valentine Fernandes- having roots in Goa in no doubt ONE of the Beautiful Young Woman in the World from the SECOND Best Region in the World named Taranaki-New Zealand (NZ), having being the Former ‘Taranaki Beauty’; ‘Miss Exotic NZ’; ‘Miss Global Beauty Queen New Zealand’; and just recently in the illustrious ‘Miss India New Zealand Competition’ was crowned as ‘Miss India NZ 2017’. And today, 23 September She is celebrating her 23rd Birthday amidst her relatives and friends in Taranaki-NZ. Hap…Hap..Hap..Happy Birthday, and many Happy Returns of the Day, Miss Valentine!.

Mangaluru: “Taranaki” is a Region (District) in New Zealand, and ‘Lonely Planet’ magazine has judged Taranaki the “Second Best Region in the World” to visit in its ‘Best in Travel 2017’. It’s New Zealand’s paradise and that’s where Goan origin Valentine Fernandes, aged 23 years lives, pursuing her studies in Nursing. There is a reason to call her One of the beautiful Woman in the World, for the fact, she has not only previously won the titles as ” ‘Taranaki Beauty’; ‘Miss Exotic NZ’; ‘Miss Global Beauty Queen New Zealand’; but recently in the illustrious ‘Miss India New Zealand Competition’ she was crowned as ‘Miss India NZ 2017’. This achievement of hers would really make any Goans proud in Goa, and also Goans living in New Zealand, and around the Globe.

For Fernandes, after she was judged as ‘Taranaki Beauty’, it’s taken her a long way from her tom-boy antics she remembers as a youngster. As she has told in a magazine, “When I was young my parents had to force me into a dress at Christmas time. (laughing). Even a year ago I would never have thought I’d be entering a pageant…It doesn’t help that I’ve always, always been shy. People don’t believe me but I’d be the girl trying to blend into the wall. It wasn’t until last year, when I took a modelling and acting course with Lois Finderup, that I stopped wanting to fade into the background. Taranaki is so important to me. It’s been my home for half of my life.”

After this title, she was among the 13 finalists to compete in the “Miss World New Zealand’ and to raise funds for her expenses to travel and take part in this pageant, she as a part of her fundraising efforts held a “Hollywood meets Bollywood” event at the Novotel Hotel there, comprising of a three-course Indian buffet and performances- and many patronized the event making it a grand success. And since she heard that Taranaki has not been represented at the ‘Miss World New Zealand’ pageant since about 1985, she was determined to do well at the event and also raise the profile of the region.

Last year Valentine entered her third pageant representing New Zealand in the 2016 Miss Global Beauty Queen held in Korea. After being judged as ‘Miss Exotic NZ’; and ‘Miss Global Beauty Queen New Zealand’, Former “Miss Taranaki” Valentine Fernandes has added another crown to her collection-she was crowned “Miss India NZ 2017” at a pageant ceremony held in Auckland in September 2017. In addition to taking out the top spot, the Witt nursing student was also named “Miss Talent” and “Miss Popularity” in the pageant.

Valentine Fernandes said, “I was humbled by the win. It’s very exciting…I can’t quite express how I feel,”. The Bell Block-NZ woman was born in Dubai but relocated to New Zealand when she was 10. She felt humbled being involved in a pageant which represented her culture. She wants people to know it is possible to pursue modelling while also studying towards a different career. The beauty queen said she was now expected to represent the Indian community at various events. In its 15th year, the annual event has described a celebration of Kiwi Indian culture, with a dusting of Bollywood, glitz and glamour.

Up against 21 other hopefuls, the competition saw Fernandes take part in a handful of rounds which included a quick fire question session, a “Kiwi girl” round and an offering of talent. “I did a fusion of Bollywood, belly-dance and hip hop. As you do, just to mix it up a little. It was quite different because, for the belly-dance part, I used a prop and they kind of fully open up.” adds Fernandes. During the night Fernandes also had the opportunity to dress in traditional Indian garbs. Wearing a sari she strutted the catwalk, which she said was a little different than her usual modelling attire. “I’ve worn saris before but actually, you know, walking down the catwalk in one is…fairly interesting. In the Kiwi girl round saw me don a “western style” cocktail gown, she said.

Valentine seen with her Dad- Oswald Fernandes, and Mom- Natalie Fernandes 

Valentine seen with her Nana (Her mom’s mother) Francisca Fernandes, who lives in Jogeshwari -Mumbai. 

Fernandes is nearing the end of her second year of a three-year nursing degree and after winning two beauty titles she hoped to be an example to other aspiring models who also wanted to pursue other professions. “That’s what I’m aiming for – to show that you can go for your career while doing the other stuff that you’re passionate about. I’ve always been really passionate about modelling and I just want to show others that it is possible.” said Valentine.

Fernandes said since beginning beauty pageants, she wanted to inspire more women to feel comfortable in their skin, even though her trick to being a crown-winning beauty was to embrace a little pain. “If it’s uncomfortable, you’re doing it right. If you portray that you’re confident, then people think you are. I’ve been here in New Zealand over half of my life. I was welcomed with open arms. I want to show people that though New Zealand is a small country, we’re diverse and inclusive. Kiwis are very nice people so I’m just going to be myself,” Fernandes said.

Valentine Fernandes, will be 23 years of age today (23 Sept). She was born in Dubai, UAE, schooled and lived there for 10 years. Her parents were both born and brought up in India, before settling in Dubai. She played a lot of sports in school and competitions in Dubai, winning lots of golds and some silvers in sprints. At the age of 10, nearly 11, she moved to New Zealand with her parents, through dad’s job. It was a huge change for her coming from such a busy city like Dubai, to a quiet and gentle Taranaki. It took her a little while, but she settled into school and the community fairly well. Being a catholic, she fitted into the Catholic community in Taranaki well and always had the support of the people, being the youngest reader at the time.

She went to St John Bosco for the end of year 6, before going into Sacred Heart Girls’ College for year 7 to year 13. In school, she did many extracurricular activities; swimming, basketball, badminton, learning piano and guitar- and played regional badminton from year 10 – year 13, travelling out of town often for competitions with her team. In her last three years of high school, she did her speech and drama, starting at level 5 in year 11, level 7 in year 12 and finishing with a distinction in level 8 in year 13. From there she went to Otago for two years, where she started a chemistry major- and was also a huge part of the cultural events usually performing, acting or dancing. At the end of those years, she finally settled back in Taranaki to complete her nursing degree which she currently pursuing. Her dad Oswald Fernandes is working in the Oil &. Gas sector having a senior position, and her mom Natalie Fernandes, is a Village Manager of a popular Dementia home & Pvt hospital in New Plymouth-NZ; and also the Secretary of New Plymouth Indian Community. Valentine is the only daughter.

Valentine says that she entered Miss Taranaki 2016 as her first ever pageant with the support of her family and Lois Finderup. She made so many friends and gained confidence in herself, as she was such a shy girl before then. Winning Miss Taranaki 2016 was just amazing and from there she went to compete in Miss World New Zealand 2016 and was one of 12 finalists. Travelling up to Auckland every weekend for four months, all while studying and doing her community work was no easy task. She had a lot of support from family, friends and community throughout these pageants and without their help it would not have been possible. For the ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ fundraising, she personally raised nearly $9000 which went towards building a basketball court at the Ronald McDonald House in Auckland.

At the finals, she was awarded second runner up in fundraising, Miss Exotic Beauty and Best Dance of Origin. From there she was asked to represent New Zealand at Miss Global Beauty Queen 2016 which was held in Seoul, Korea. Three weeks away with 41 contestants from other countries was such a different experience. Out of all the talents, she was in the top six to perform on the final night. She was awarded with the title of “Miss Internet Popularity” and also came in Top 15. In between these pageants, studying and personal life, she would also make time to visit primary schools, rest homes and the children’s ward at the hospital as “Miss Taranaki”. “My community supported me in whatever I did, and I felt thrilled to be able to give my time back to them by visiting them. Seeing their smiles even through their hard times just made my day” added Valentine.

She further said, “While continuing with my studies this year, I was told about ‘Miss IndiaNZ’ by a friend who suggested I should enter. I jumped at the opportunity to be able to represent my culture and show my diversity, in a country different to my culture. This event was just as exciting as every other one I’ve been to, and I’m thrilled I was able to participate in it. Meeting 21 Kiwi-Indian contestants from all over New Zealand, making some great friends and learning a lot from different people were some of the few aspects of Miss IndiaNZ. I won the preliminary titles of ‘Miss Talent’ and ‘Miss Popular’, and then won the beautiful title of ‘Miss IndiaNZ 2017’. “

“Standing up there, being crowned by the stunning Sunaina Chand, was just exhilarating and I could barely hold back tears. I would just like to thank all my family, friends and community who have always supported me with everything I’ve done and for believing in me. Thank you to the Miss IndiaNZ team and the judges. Lastly a huge thank you to Dharmesh, the organize of the event, for all his hardwork and effort into this event and congratulations of 15 years! Thank you to my family and friends in Dubai and India for the continuous love, prayers and support. Even though you all were so far away, I could feel you all in spirit”.” adds Valentine.

Valentine’s suave and modest responses will certainly leave a wonderful smile on your face. Have a look! Here are the excerpts from the online interview:

Q: How does it feel being ‘Miss India NZ 2017’? What was your reaction after winning the Title?

The feeling is just surreal, I can’t describe it. I feel proud to be able to represent both my Indian and Kiwi upbringing as Miss IndiaNZ 2017. Upon the MC’s announcing my name as the winner and Miss IndiaNZ 2017, I was so surprised and thrilled; I could barely hold back tears.

Q: How did you prepare for this pageant? How many pageants have you competed before this one -name them?

My first Pageant was in January 2016 where I was crowned ‘Miss Taranaki’ in my beautiful home region of Taranaki. I then went on to do the national pageant, ‘Miss World New Zealand – Beauty with a Purpose 2016’ was one of 13 finalists. This was held in Auckland and although I did not win the main title, I came away with a lot of learning and these awards: Best dance of Origin; Miss Exotic Beauty; and Second runner up in fundraising. I travelled up to Auckland every weekend for four months from New Plymouth, Taranaki. It is a 5 hour drive, and I would occasionally travel by road, however majority of the time by flights.

In August 2016, I was asked to represent New Zealand at ‘Miss Global Beauty Queen 2016’ in Seoul, South Korea. Out of 42 contestants, I came in the Top 15 and also won the ‘Internet Popularity Award.’ In March 2017, a friend told me about the ‘Miss IndiaNZ’ annual event and I thought this would be different to my previous pageants as I get to showcase my culture, and decided to enter. In the way of preparation, I could say my previous pageant experiences taught me about being self-confident without hurting others, being committed to your journey and most importantly trying your best, but ensuring I have fun along the way and make friends. During all my pageants, I have also been studying to be a nurse, so time management was one of the most important skills I took into all my pageant journeys.

Q: How did modelling happen? So when was this first opportunity that came across?

Growing up I’ve always been a shy person… except in front of the camera. I loved doing photoshoots, snapping scenic photos and videos. When the opportunity arose, I did a modelling and acting course with ‘Turning Point Modelling Agency’ and from them got my first opportunity to model in the 2015 Winter Fashion Show.

Q: Can you recollect for us, the beauty contests that you have entered…?

Regional – Miss Taranaki 2016; National – Miss World New Zealand 2016; International – Miss Global Beauty Queen 2016; and National – Miss India NZ 2017

Q: Which phase of the competition was your favourite? How do you measure success?

Each contest is unique in its own way hence I can’t chose a specific phase as a favourite. To me success is what I learn, achieve and the people I meet along the way. However, something I find extremely exciting and mesmerising is watching contestants grow in themselves and gain confidence. If I am able to help them achieve that, I am more than happy to do so.

Q: How were you different from the other contestants? What made you unique?

Each contestant is different and unique in their own way, and I feel each of us bring our own style and personality to a competition. I guess what made me unique would be previous experience in pageants, as for a lot of the contestants in Miss IndiaNZ, this was their first pageant.

Q: Winning in this pageant, do you have any ideas for a change in your career for the future?

Throughout all my four pageant journeys, I have always maintained the mindset that I want to be able to show people that it is possible to do both. As a student nurse, I would like to complete my degree that I can forever hold, if I do happen to go into the acting and modelling career in future.

Q: What do think would be the three qualities that every woman should have?

I feel every woman should have kindness, be humble, and determination to achieve what they would like to.

Q: What is your style inspiration? What is your favourite item in your closet?

I try out different styles and feel I can carry off anything that I wear. I can definitely state my favourite item in my closet to be my shoes; I have a vast collection of different styles and colours.

Q: Who is your latest celebrity guy crush and girl crush?

Sidharth Malhotra!! and Madhuri Dixit

Q: What is your favourite social media platform to use and why?

If I had to pick from the few I do use, I would say Facebook. I find it the easiest to use to connect to people, create pages and events quickly.

Q: What do your parents have to say about your success in this beauty contest?

My parents have said they are extremely proud of how far I’ve come and how much I’ve grown in the last few years. They are thrilled with my achievements both in studies and modelling/acting and always tell me to enjoy the moment.

Q: I am sure that your family is such a huge support to you and your journey to becoming “Miss IndiaNZ 2017” – Was there any particular thing a family member has said that has inspired you to go this far?

Throughout my life, I have always been told to believe in myself in whatever I do.

Q: How would you define your personal style? What do you see when you look in the mirror?

Simple living and high thinking! When I look in the mirror, I often remember the shy girl I used to be. I do like the level of self-confidence I have currently, where I know not to speak out of turn, but also know when I should speak up.

Q: From where you stand right now how does life look?

Life is always beautiful; it’s how we perceive it. Right now, I feel good about how I am going in my modelling, and my nursing studies.

Q: What would be your greatest achievement that will make you feel your life was a huge success?

I can’t pick a specific achievement as I believe all my achievements are equally as amazing. I have always believed that if I can make at least one person smile in a day, I have had a successful day.

Q: Okay, later in the years in case if you were to choose from films and modelling, what would you choose?

If possible I would love to do both. I would definitely chose film work, however if I could continue with a bit of modelling along the way, I would do so.

Q: If you could high-five anyone in the world who would it be and why?

Sidharth Malhotra – he seems like a kind, nice and down to earth person.

Q: When the right time comes to choose your life partner, what kind of man would you prefer?

If he supports me in what I do and is happy with how I am, I would say he is the right man for me.

Q: Being a beautiful young lady yourself, who would you consider as the most beautiful woman, and why?

I have always admired Princess Diana and always considered her to be so beautiful and graceful. She was well known for her charitable acts and although a princess she was a queen in the hearts of people.

Q: What do you plan on doing after graduation? What can we expect next from Valentine Fernandes?

Expect the unexpected from me! I never thought I would participate in pageants and here I am, with experience, learning and grown from four pageants. I would love to work in the film industry and alongside that, work as a nurse as well.

Q: What is that you would like to share with Mangalorean.com readers? Also some words of advice to younger girls who may want to follow in your footsteps.

To the young girls, and well to the youth of today, my advice would be to believe in yourself in whatever you do. Remember if one door closes, another one will open. There is always someone who will support and guide you in what you want to do. If you would like to study and do something you’re passionate about, like I have done, remember it is possible as long as you believe it.

To the readers, thank you for taking the time to read about me. If you would like to follow my journey, and know what I am up to in the future you can ‘like’ and ‘follow’ my page “Valentine Fernandes – Miss India NZ 2017” (https://www.facebook.com/ValentineFernandes23/)

Team Mangalorean congratulates Valentine Fernandes on her great achievements; and also wish her hap..hap..happy 23rd Birthday today (23 September)

Also Read Related Article 

Goa Origin Valentine Fernandes Crowned ‘Miss India NZ 2017’ in Auckland, New Zealand

Read Exclusive Interviews By Alfie D’Souza:


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4 Comments

  1. We congratulate Ms. Valentine Fernandes wholeheartedly for all her victorious achievements in New Zealand by being a Winner in many contests within twelve years of her stay in New Zealand along with h er parents. Beauty Queen Valentine has brought a name for herself, her country India, her native place Goa, and even Jogeshwary, Mumbai where her grand-mother comes from. Being a Nurse by profession, and her faith as a Christian, and also her name and fame in athletic performance she has brought pride for all of us, as Indians. Being a Goan, Valentine must be also a good dancer and singer too.

    All of the above credentials that Valentine has earned for her twenty three years of speaks in volumes as to how she has designed her life under the able guidance of her parents. Valentine deserves all our praises and prayers, and hopefully all of these Awards and Recognitions will be a good start for her young life as a proud Indian Christian in New Zealand.

    Thank you, Alfie, for your elaborate narration on Valentine, and you too, as a Mangalorean, have brought added strength and glamor for the nice write-up on an outstanding Goan.

  2. Beautifully written Alfieaam.
    Congratulations Val, you are always the best. We wish you the best as you compete in the bigger contests to come.

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