Indra Changa leaves for London
by Sharon Lall
MISS World contestant, Ms. Indra Changa, yesterday departed for London and expressed heartfelt thanks to the Government and public for extending a helping hand to her. "I am sure that the strength which took me through this hard period will take me even further to becoming Miss World," the 20-year-old told the Chronicle prior to boarding a 4:55 p.m. BWIA flight. Changa said she will be travelling alone to the pageant since enough funds could not have been had for Miss World franchise holder, Sri Yogeandra, to accompany her. "When I get to London I'll be proud to say that I'm representing Guyana, not because I'm going there as a beauty queen but because I love my country and I know the potential that we have." "After climbing one hill you find that there are many others to climb. The hills (I must) now climb are those in London." Changa said because of the Government's speedy intervention, she has all that is necessary for her to represent Guyana at the December 4 Miss World pageant. Among the gifts given the Miss World hopeful since her appeal for help are: US$1,000 from The United Force (TUF); G$90,000 from Willems Timber; $100 Pounds Sterling from De Sinco Trading; two evening gowns and a silver necklace set from Naraj Bridal Store; seven winter pieces from local designer, Deryck Khan; US$200 spending money, full cost for air travel by Western Union; two paintings and a piece of sculpture valued at $150,000 from the Government of Guyana as official gifts for the host country. She was also given several flags and a hard-cover book about Guyana; an evening gown from Action Tyre; and one length of cloth and a casual dress from Alicia's Boutique. Before leaving, Changa was treated to a manicure and hairdo from Nalini Hair Salon, which also presented her with a package of beauty products. Changa expressed gratitude to Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Ms. Gail Teixeira, whom she said worked tirelessly to ensure that everything was on stream for Changa's participation in the pageant. Guyanese designers, Pat Coates, Deryck Moore, Donna Ramsammy James and Pam Fox were said to be "mobilised" by Minister Teixeira for outfits to be made available for Changa. "I am going (to London) with the Guyanese public behind me...I am pleased," the lass said smiling while flanked by her pastor, relatives and friends in the VIP Lounge at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri. Changa was escorted to the airport in a Foreign Affairs Ministry Mercedez Benz, and accorded an official departure, compliments of the Government.
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