Odessa Phillips has created a buzz like no local queen before her has done, grabbing attention in Quito, Ecuador where she and 79 other beauties will vie for the Miss Universe crown tonight.
Whether it's because of her allure, smooth Spanish or pleasant charm, Phillips is the most photographed local beauty in the Miss Universe pageant so far. And she is riding high on praise as the hour draws near.
Bubbling with excitement and a few last-minute jitters, Phillips told Stabroek News in a telephone interview from her hotel room yesterday that the attention she has received has been more than she could have hoped her.
"I've done what I came here to do and that's give this my all. There is nothing that I left undone so let's just wait and see," Phillips said minutes before rushing off to be part of the pre-taped costume street parade.
For her Ecuador has been more than a warm host; it has been the forum where she was able to express herself, showcase all that is Guyanese and have a splendid time in the quest to wear the crown.
And as for being noticed, Phillips credits it all to her outgoing personality and not aggressiveness; her free and open spirit which has reached out to people over the years continues to touch those who she comes into contact with.
Ecuador had an eyeful of Phillips and the photographs of her kept coming. Whether she was waving to a crowd or taping pre-show videos, Phillips was far from in the shadows.
Though she is confident and feels assured of a place in the final 15, she said things could go either way.
Global Beauties, the beauty portal of the world had headlined Phillips but she was not aware. The website described her as exuding sex appeal and natural charm.
According to her the assessment is flattering but will not put the crown any closer in her reach. She said that it is always pleasing to have good reviews yet the real work entails winning over the committee.
Asked whether her shot at the title is a long one as has been predicted by Global Beauties Phillips said, "who knows?" In her mind the preliminary competitions went well and things could continue to go well.
Phillips said that if she fails to make the cut then it was destined to happen that way. And if she does go where no local queen has gone before, that is also out of her hands, she opined.
Should she fail in her bid Phillips will leave for Guyana on June 2. And according to her the stage is set for local successors.
A 20-member contingent of supporters arrived in Ecuador on Saturday last to cheer Phillips on with franchise holder Odinga Lumumba leading the pack.