Who: Miss World 2014 and Miss SouthAfrica 2014 Rolene Strauss

Where: Miss Jamaica World finals andcoronation at the Montego BayConvention Centre

Violent racial tensions continue to dominate global culture…

I think that it is important for parents to raise their children to respect and love all human beings. That is the way I was brought up and definitely the way I will raise my children one day. Under our skins we all look the same and love the same. The late Nelson Mandela’s vision for South Africa is definitely becoming a reality.

The inspirational attributes of Jamaican culture…

I have seen that Jamaicans are giving, loving and kind to people from all over the world. That is something everyone can learn and apply in their lives. We may come from different backgrounds, but we are all one.

Life after Miss World…

After my Miss World reign I plan on finishing my medical studies and then focusing on women’s health; I would love to start a Holistic Women’s Health Centre in South Africa. My Miss World journey has surely brought me closer to the woman I would like to be.

Regarding our own Miss Jamaica World competition, let’s play favourites…

I didn’t have a favourite in the Miss Jamaica World competition, but I am so happy for the winner. I know that what lies ahead of her is going to be life-changing and that is something to be excited about.

Is there a competitive advantage to secure the crown?

There is no competitive advantage. Just like you can’t compare apples with pears, you can’t compare women. Every woman is unique and it all depends on the judges (who all have different opinions). The best thing is to portray the best ‘you’ and to stay true to yourself, as there is only one you.

The ‘it’ factor to ascend from Top 20 to the final five depends on…

You must definitely have a ‘presence’ on stage. When people look at you, they should see your personality, heart and spirit shine through. That is when people decide whether they can relate to you or not. You have to be relatable.

The best advice for the new Miss Jamaica World…

Never, ever forget to be present! This is a time of your life that will go by so fast and it is so important to drink in every moment and make it memorable. Don’t over-prepare for Miss World, stay true to yourself and know what your vision is in life.

On your Jamaican to-do list…

I really fell in love with the Jamaican sun, beaches, food and culture. The most memorable would be the kind-cultured Jamaican people. I hope to bring my family to Jamaica in the future.

Warm-weather travel must-haves…

1) Colourful summer outfits

2) Swimwear

3) Smartphone (to take a thousand pictures to share with the world)

4) Evening dress for Miss Jamaica World Finals

5) Diary, to write my memories in

The inside scoop on your covetable wardrobe…

I have a wonderful friend and stylist, Werner Wessels — he’s the mastermind behind it all. Most of my daywear is from Forever New, while the evening and cocktail dresses are by South African designers such as Casper Bosman. I love timeless, classy and elegant clothing and for Jamaica I also packed a few youthful, fun outfits.