“MY performance was flawless and I did all that I was supposed to do but it simply was not our time to shine, its just a matter that they’re not ready for us,” reported reigning Miss Guyana Universe, Odessa Phillips, yesterday, at her first press conference after competing in the Miss Universe 2004 pageant in Quito, Ecuador, Monday last.
She said although she didn’t place in the competition, the experience was great and she has learnt a lot. She advised Guyanese to continue supporting the local delegates as the pageant keeps getting better.
Looking back, Ms Phillips said that she never felt threatened or fearful of any of the delegates, but noted that “since my arrival in Ecuador, it was obvious that Miss Trinidad felt threatened by my appearance”.
She also reported that because of her ability to communicate in Spanish, she was well received by the people of Ecuador.
“They loved me and I got an opportunity to be on Access Hollywood.”
Speaking of the Jackson issue that saw him removed from the judging panel, she said that he was quite friendly to all the delegates and kissed most of them but it was in no way suggestive or in a negative sense. She said, “he kissed me too but that was after he was removed from the panel.”
WHAT NEXT?
Phillips said that she hopes to pursue her higher legal education and will start making plans to stage the 2nd annual Miss Region Three in August. “I’m to be involved in HIV/AIDS related activities after consultation with Health Minister, Leslie Ramsammy.”
In addition, she will continue her work with City Hall and Guyenterprise on an on going solid waste management project. “I’ll also be willing to work with the pageant committee in their selection of the next Guyana representative to an international pageant.”
Meanwhile, Miss Guyana Universe franchise holder, Odinga Lumumba said that plans are in train for Guyana and Barbados to possibly host the 2007 Miss Universe pageant.