Changa set for Miss World contest
MISS World contestant Indra Changa last night appeared to have overcome funding problems for the December 4 pageant in London with the money transfer company, Western Union, taking care of her major expenses. Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Ms Gail Teixeira, who coordinated the `rescue effort' after Changa appealed to President Bharrat Jagdeo for help to get to the contest, said Western Union support was worth $438,000. A company statement last night noted this was not the usual type of sponsorship for the firm but was a "classic case of our community-mindedness and much goodwill." Western Union is covering Changa's air fare, payment to designers for her contest outfits and some pocket money. Teixeira said the government, among other help, has provided a piece of sculpture and two paintings, worth some $150,000, as the contestant's official gifts. Among others helping Changa yesterday were the Naraj Bridal Store and B&R auto accessories on Lamaha Street, Georgetown They gave her a stunning silver necklace set valued at US$140 and one of two imported evening gowns each worth US$329.
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